This Could Be Your Best Summer Yet—Blacktail Dam Lottery Now Open

As the snow finally loosens its grip and North Dakota starts remembering what sunshine feels like again, there’s one thing on a lot of local minds: getting outside. And honestly, the timing couldn’t be better for one of the most anticipated warm-weather traditions around— the Blacktail Dam campsite lottery is officially back.

It’s time to clean and stock the camper, dream about campfires, and start picturing those long summer evenings by the water. For 2026, five lucky campers will score a seasonal spot at Blacktail Dam, with campsites 5, 8, 16, 20, and 25 up for grabs. Think of it as the golden ticket of summer in western North Dakota—minus the chocolate factory, but with way better sunsets.

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Your All-Access Pass to Summer (With a Few Friendly Ground Rules)

The season runs from May 29 through October 1, giving winners a front-row seat to everything summer (and a little bit of fall) has to offer. We’re talking fishing, grilling, lawn chairs that never quite fold right again, and that one neighbor who always seems to have the best snacks.

Now, before you hitch up and head out, there are a few rules. Seasonal sites are reserved for campers and RVs only—so while tents are welcome, they’re more of a short-term guest than a permanent resident. Each site runs $1,900 for the season, which, when you break it down, is a pretty sweet deal for months of outdoor living and memory-making.

Read More: Why North Dakota Might Be Happier Than You Think

Don’t Miss Out: How to Enter and When the Winners Are Drawn

Getting entered is simple: fill out the lottery form here, print your email confirmation, and send it in with your payment to the Williams County Parks Department. Just make sure everything is in by April 16 at 5 pm—because missing that deadline would be about as painful as a mosquito bite you can’t reach.

The drawing will take place April 21 during the Park Board meeting, and from there, a handful of lucky winners will officially have their summer plans locked in.

So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to embrace the outdoors, this is it. Warmer days are coming, the lake is calling, and your campsite might just be waiting.