Cross Ranch State Park wilderness guide
State Park · ND

Cross Ranch State Park

Cross Ranch State Park offers a tranquil outdoor experience on the banks of the Missouri River, featuring a rich mix of hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

State Park5,7004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

5,700

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cross Ranch State Park

Cross Ranch State Park offers a tranquil outdoor experience on the banks of the Missouri River, featuring a rich mix of hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cross Ranch State Park, located in central North Dakota, encompasses over 5,700 acres of scenic landscapes along the western banks of the Missouri River. The park is known for its warm and welcoming natural appeal, accented by lush forests, sprawling prairies, and the historic river itself. Ecologically diverse, the park shelters a wide range of plant and animal life, including bison, white-tailed deer, and an array of bird species that make it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Rich cultural history further enhances the park's character, with the area once traversed by legendary explorers Lewis and Clark. Visitors can explore diverse habitats by trekking the Maah Daah Hey Trail, fishing in the river, or enjoying a leisurely canoe ride that offers a serene perspective of the park. Notable landmarks like the 6.5-mile trail system and secluded campgrounds provide additional allure for visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its peaceful settings and diverse recreational offerings, Cross Ranch State Park appeals to outdoor lovers and those interested in the story of the American frontier.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cross Ranch State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Missouri River's scenic views perfect for photography and canoeing✦ Rich birdlife and wildlife, including bison and deer✦ Network of trails weaving through diverse ecosystems✦ Picnic areas and remote campsites for a rustic experience
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cross Ranch State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cross Ranch State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cross Ranch State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cross Ranch State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Cross Ranch State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Cross Ranch State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cross Ranch State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cross Ranch State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

State park entrance fees apply.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Cross Ranch State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Cross Ranch Campground

Located near the visitor center with amenities including electric hookups; a great base for exploring the park.

Sibley Lake Backcountry Camp

Offers remote camping with basic facilities, ideal for those seeking solitude.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cross Ranch State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Washburn, North Dakota
⌖ 4.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Washburn, North Dakota

Washburn is a peaceful river town that offers easy access to fishing, hiking, paddling, and camping along the Missouri River. With nearby parks and natural refuges, it’s a quiet spot for nature lovers seeking a laid-back adventure in North Dakota.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Mérida, Mérida State
⌖ 8.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mérida, Mérida State

Mérida is a charming mountain town in Venezuela’s Andes, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and even skiing near Pico Bolívar. With stunning national parks, a famous cable car, and rich nature, it's a true Andean adventure basecamp.

December to March
Explore Town
Stanton, North Dakota
⌖ 14.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stanton, North Dakota

Stanton, ND offers a tranquil escape along the Missouri River with plentiful hiking, paddling, and historical exploration. Experience the area's natural beauty and rich history at Knife River Indian Villages.

Underwood, North Dakota
⌖ 14.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Underwood, North Dakota

Underwood offers a peaceful riverside escape with paddling, fishing, and gentle hiking along the Missouri River. Outdoor lovers enjoy birdwatching and camping here, especially from late spring to early fall.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Wilton, North Dakota
⌖ 16.20 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wilton, North Dakota

Wilton, North Dakota is a quiet rural town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking fishing, paddling, bird watching, and peaceful hiking in open prairie and wetlands. Ideal for low-key, nature-focused trips year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Mandan, North Dakota
⌖ 30.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mandan, North Dakota

Mandan, ND offers outdoor lovers a gateway to the Missouri River’s paddling, nearby hiking in scenic natural areas, and year-round fishing. This friendly town combines prairie landscapes with river adventures and regional parks perfect for camping and wildlife viewing.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cross Ranch State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.