Cross Ranch State Park
4.8(328)google
4.2(5)yelp
Hiking TrailCampingBoatingFishingFamilyOutdoorSecluded & UncrowdedRiverForest
Overview
Cross Ranch State Park is a public recreation area covering 569 acres (230 ha) on the west bank of the Missouri River nine miles (14 km) south of Washburn in Oliver County, North Dakota. The Nature Conservancy's Cross Ranch Nature Preserve, a 6,000-acre (2,400 ha) preserve which features a roaming herd of more than 200 adult bison, lies adjacent to the state park.
Practical Info
Mon9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tue9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wed9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thu9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Fri9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sat9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sun9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Suggested Duration0.5-1 day
Best TimeMid-to-late October or clear spring mornings between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM offer the most magical experience. Preserving one of the last free-flowing, undammed segments of the Missouri River, hiking the cottonwood trails during early hours catches early light piercing the ancient riverbottom forests, maximizing your chances of viewing roaming bison herds.
Getting ThereSituated 12 miles northeast of Center along the west bank of the Missouri River; no public transit extends here. From Center, navigate east on ND-25 E, turn left onto CR-18 (Cross Ranch Road), and follow the gravel road to its northern terminus inside the park gates, leading directly to well-marked trailhead lots.
Travel Tips
- Deep park zones suffer from a total lack of cell service; obtain a physical topographic map at the visitor center before tackling the isolated Missouri River trails.
- Free-roaming bison herds graze throughout the park; federal laws mandate a minimum 25-yard safety buffer. Retreat quietly if a bison raises its tail or paws the dirt.
Photo Tips
Photo Rules
- Recreational drone operations are strictly banned without federal permits; backcountry yurt and cabin rentals are highly coveted and must be secured via the park's online portal.
Reviews
Positive
- A beautifully peaceful and underrated state park nestled among historic cottonwood trees, offering a tranquil escape from commercial noise.
- The newly constructed York Cabin is perfect, equipped with A/C, a fireplace, full kitchen, and bathroom, boasting breathtaking river views.
- They offer excellent kayak and canoe rentals for river paddling, complete with an awesome park ranger shuttle service to bring you back.
- Miles of scenic hiking trails are meticulously maintained, the park manager is incredibly helpful, and the historic teepee setups are great.
Heads up
- The nature here is raw, which means mosquitoes can be thick and chaotic in the summer; bringing plenty of heavy-duty repellant is mandatory.
- The main campground is dry camping only with no electrical or water hookups, which might disappoint luxury RV travelers.
- Showers operate strictly from the main office building, requiring a tedious half-mile walk from some of the further tent and RV sites.
- Certain river trails can become passably muddy or flooded due to seasonal water fluctuations, and some trail stairs lack handrails.