Bar X Ranch offers a distinct outdoor adventure experience for horse enthusiasts and camping travelers seeking a working ranch atmosphere in the heart of North Dakota’s badlands. Located near Medora, Bar X Ranch is a private campground uniquely designed to accommodate both horses and riders with its multiple pens, electrical hookups, and direct access to expansive riding trails winding through beautiful and rugged terrain. This ranch is a special local resource for equestrian visitors who want to ride scenic trails shaded by native trees while camping next to their horses, an offering hard to find in this area.

The ranch is situated in North Dakota’s dramatic western landscape characterized by rolling hills, open plains, and occasional buttes that provide incredible views over the Missouri River Valley. The land remains a working ranch, so guests share the landscape with cattle and horses, which adds authenticity and a genuine ranch feel to their visit. Trails range from easy rides through shaded corridors to more challenging routes for experienced riders. The rustic campground includes functional amenities such as electrical hookups and water for horses but lacks some conveniences like a dump station and fully modern bath facilities. This hands-off approach preserves the remote, natural setting for those looking to truly unplug.

Visitors note the friendliness of the owners and the peaceful environment as major strengths. The unpaved access roads add character but require preparedness for dusty travel. While sites are not clearly defined, many guests appreciate the freedom to choose their spots within the large property. The ranch’s remote location near Medora—a gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park—makes Bar X Ranch a great base camp for exploring North Dakota’s scenic badlands, wildlife, and cultural history.

For travelers with horses, this ranch stands out as a rare, inviting destination focused on equestrian needs and outdoor camping comfort. Whether resting during a cross-country trip or spending days exploring trails, Bar X Ranch offers a genuine connection to the western North Dakota outdoors and ranch lifestyle.