Cross Ranch State Park, ND

Today’s Forecast:

Today’s Report:

About Cross Ranch State Park

Cross Ranch State Park preserves a relatively undeveloped Missouri River setting where current, ramp access, prairie wind, and wooded trail conditions combine.

Planning an Outing at Cross Ranch State Park

Check Missouri River stage, boat access, preserve rules, campground operations, and snow conditions before selecting a river or trail outing.

Weather Tips for Cross Ranch State Park

• Check observed and forecast river stage; runoff may close low trails, ramps, banks, or campgrounds after local rain ends.
• Cold water, current, debris, and muddy exits require a conservative paddling or fishing plan.
• Confirm snow depth, grooming, ice, road treatment, and facility operations before relying on a winter activity.
• Watch for severe thunderstorms, hail, smoke, and sudden wind shifts; keep a sheltered alternative available.
• Use the latest notice for Washburn and the exact trailhead, ramp, campground, or facility you plan to use.

Nearby Towns and Areas

Use this forecast as practical context for outdoor plans near:

• Washburn
• Hensler
• Stanton
• Cross Ranch Nature Preserve
• Missouri River
• Knife River Indian Villages
• Fort Clark

Adjust the Day to the Forecast

Choose the route, launch, campsite, fishing window, tee time, or event plan with the widest margin for wind and storms.

7-Day Forecast for Cross Ranch State Park

Cross Ranch State Park Weather by Season

Winter

Snow cover varies across open prairie and wooded terrain, while blowing snow can erase visibility quickly. Carry winter emergency supplies and confirm seasonal access. Check conditions near Washburn because local access can change first.

Spring

Spring warmth arrives unevenly, with ice, saturated trails, and floodwater lingering in shaded or low terrain. River and lake pages require current observations. Check conditions near Hensler because local access can change first.

Summer

Warm afternoons can turn windy or stormy quickly across open terrain. Watch radar and keep drinking water, sun protection, and a shorter escape route. Check conditions near Stanton because local access can change first.

Fall

Fall color and mild afternoons can coincide with morning ice, strong wind, and the first snow. Bright clothing and extra layers are practical. Check conditions near Cross Ranch Nature Preserve because local access can change first.

Key Climate Data Points

• Annual average temperature: roughly 43–46°F in the Bismarck–Mandan river corridor.
• Annual snowfall: commonly 30–45 inches, although wind redistributes snow and creates deep drifts beside exposed roads.
• Warmest months: July is usually warmest; exposed badlands and prairie heat faster than wooded or lakeshore settings.
• Coolest months: January is generally coldest, with wind chill often more important than air temperature.
• Wettest season: Late spring and early summer usually bring the most precipitation, including severe thunderstorms.
• Driest season: Winter is often driest by liquid precipitation, although drifting snow can dominate access.
• Best outdoor window: Late spring through early fall for warm-season activities; winter destinations require verified ice, snow, roads, and operations.