Patterson Lake Recreation Area

Is your ideal camping experience one that blends lakefront recreation with essential comforts? Located just three miles west and one mile south of Dickinson, North Dakota, the Patterson Lake Recreation Area offers a welcoming combination of outdoor activities, convenient amenities, and tranquil natural surroundings. Whether camping in a tent or an RV, visitors can enjoy the peace of being near Dickinson Reservoir, a 946-acre lake with over 26 miles of shoreline, perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming.

This seasonal campground features 30 primitive and 21 RV sites, equipped with water, electric hookups, sewer connections, and a dump station. Families and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site amenities, including a playground, picnic areas, bathrooms, and showers, as well as recreational features like hiking trails, a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and a disc golf course. The Crooked Crane Trail offers a scenic route for walking or biking, enhancing the experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the area's beauty.

Patterson Lake is situated in an accessible location just minutes from Dickinson. Its lakefront setting and variety of activities make it an excellent choice for weekend getaways, family outings, or extended vacations, offering an inviting mix of leisure and active pursuits close to town.