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Patterson Lake Rec Area (Dickinson City Park)
Overview
Patterson Lake Rec Area offers a refreshing lakeside escape just minutes from the heart of Dickinson. Managed by the Dickinson Parks and Recreation department, this city-run facility provides RVers with a blend of natural beauty and convenient access to modern city services. Whether you are seeking a quiet weekend on the water or a comfortable basecamp while exploring Western North Dakota, this park serves as a welcoming community hub with plenty of open space for visitors to relax.
Location & Surroundings
Situated on the northern shores of the reservoir, the park is surrounded by the rolling high plains prairie characteristic of the region. The setting provides expansive views of the water and stunning sunsets that stretch across the horizon. Its proximity to Interstate 94 makes it an ideal stop for those traveling between Bismarck and the Montana border, offering a peaceful environment that feels far removed from the highway noise while remaining easily accessible for large rigs.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features well-maintained RV sites equipped with electrical hookups to accommodate various rig sizes. Visitors have access to essential facilities including a dump station, seasonal restrooms, and potable water. For recreation, the park boasts a popular 18-hole disc golf course, a dedicated swimming beach, and multiple boat ramps for easy water access. Families often enjoy the playgrounds and communal picnic shelters that are scattered throughout the grassy common areas.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Crooked Crane Trail, a multi-use path perfect for hiking and cycling that winds around the scenic shoreline. The lake itself is a local favorite for catching walleye and northern pike, making it a prime spot for fishing. For a change of pace, the Dickinson Museum Center is a short drive away, while the world-class landscapes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park are less than an hour to the west.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who prefer a community-park atmosphere over a commercial resort. It is a fantastic choice for families looking for space to play and boaters eager to spend time on the water. If you value scenic trail access and a quiet, dark sky for stargazing without sacrificing the convenience of nearby grocery stores and restaurants, Patterson Lake is an excellent fit for your North Dakota itinerary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Susan Howe
I understand it's "off season" but there should be someone that answers calls at all times. The bathrooms ran out of toilet paper.... no one to contact. Left a message, good thing I carry some. Also, we had reserved a site only to arrive and someone was in it, again, no one to contact immediately because "off season". Otherwise, nice camp ground! We throughly enjoyed our time here. Trains can be noisy, but really not a bother unless you have a toddler that is terrified of them....
Cory Hoffman
Our experience was great beyond all the vehicles constantly driving by the campsites and the train being so close as well. Primitive campsites were too out in the open with barely any tree cover and there aren't any campsites by the water. Other than that we had a good time. Nobody really bothered us and the campsite was clean and ready to use.
Cassie Wielenga
We started out a little disappointed because the sight was so narrow, we were #M9. Some are wider than others. By the time we left, I was so happy they were so tight! There is a row of bushes/trees between each camper sight, then the fire pit/grate and picnic table are behind. It's a long spot, not wide. We couldn't put out our awning but it was ok because there was still plenty of shade. We camped through 2 nights of storms. One was predicted 60 mph winds. Tree limbs, one 8" or more in diameter, had fallen during the storm. Those tight trees protected us, and the camper barely even rocked! We really enjoyed this campground. There is an active railroad right to the North of the campground. Some may not like the noise but my kids RAN to see the trains! There is also a nice wide paved bike path and walking trail to the East of the modern camping spots. It's about 2 miles long. There is a sand volleyball court and playground as well as 3 other play and fitness pods(outdoor exercise equipment!) along the walking trail. The vault toilets along the path and by the primitive camping spots are disgusting. The downfalls were the bathrooms/showers ALL being locked at random times with no signs or notice and you couldn't ask the worker in the booth because they were hardly ever there! That's why I gave 4 stars. This was our home base to see the sights in Medora and the national park and it was a perfect drive to get there. The dollar general was really decent priced also for a few things we needed to grab.
Doreen Binstock
It has been years since I had been to this lake area as I moved away, but was glad to see walking trails have been created along with nice sheltered picnic areas. I came back for a family picnic / anniversary celebration. Unfortunately, the restrooms were not functioning at our area, but we're in another part of the park. Otherwise the area was very relaxing! Nice to see so many people taking advantage of the nice area!
Frank Jones
Beautiful park with paved walking trails. Lots of activities including disc golf, several playgrounds, workout area, beach, boat ramp, camping and sand volleyball