The best camping near Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site

Though they're small, the Knife River Indian Villages have a big history. Plains Indians used the site as a major trading center for hundreds of years. Lewis and Clark stopped in on their legendary journey, and later, fur traders moved in. Today, you can walk through the centuries on nearly 10 miles of trails.

The star of the show is the replica earth lodge. Inside, see how the Hidatsa people lived. Outside, there's a drying rack and a garden to explore. The visitor center also has a well-curated museum, complete with an introductory movie.

The park is open year-round. During winter, bundle up and imagine you're a fur trader heading for the warm lodge fires. In the summer, hike the Village Trail to the Awatixa Xi'e Village and the Awatixa Village. Feeling adventurous? The North Forest Trail loop takes you to the Hidatsa Village. Pack your fishing gear and try your luck in the Missouri River along the way. The plains are also prime bird-watching territory—ask the visitor center for a bird list.

If you want to camp nearby, head south to Stanton. For boating, fishing, and swimming make the short drive north to massive Lake Audubon.