Buffalo River State Park Campground provides a meticulously maintained camping experience 30 minutes east of Fargo, North Dakota. The park features two camping loops with electric and non-electric sites arranged around prairie and wooded areas. Red River Valley Fairgrounds offers year-round camping options with convenient access to shopping centers in Fargo, while Maplewood State Park near Pelican Rapids provides more secluded sites with trail access.
What to do
Hiking along Buffalo River trails: At Buffalo River State Park Campground, several looping trails start directly from the campground. "Several looping hiking trails start in and around the campground, so you can put together a hike from 15 minutes to two hours. Ours was about an hour, half in the prairie and half along the river," notes Patrick M.
Swimming in natural waters: Buffalo River offers swimming opportunities during warmer months. "The swimming area is wonderful! Less chlorine than you'd ever get exposed to in a public pool and picnic table access with lots of area to picnic," reports Brianna V., who frequently visits the park for day use.
Wildlife viewing on prairie trails: The natural prairie vegetation provides habitat for diverse wildlife. "We often take our dog here on the weekends for longer, out of city limits walks. The trails are the perfect amount for that purpose and he enjoys the wildlife that hides in the natural prairie fauna," shares a regular visitor to Buffalo River.
What campers like
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Campers consistently praise the site layout and maintenance. "The campsite was spacious and nicely kept. There was a water filling station and toilets and showers near by. It was great," reports Sophia P. about her stay at Buffalo River, though she warns about mosquitos during summer months.
Clean facilities: At Maplewood State Park Campground, the spread-out camping areas offer variety. "The sites in the main loop have little privacy. That, coupled with the hiking trails, made this a not so high recommendation. It would go over higher with fishermen," suggests Art S., highlighting that site selection matters depending on your preference for privacy.
Natural sounds and seclusion: Campers value the peaceful atmosphere. "Very nice and peaceful with the loons singing in the morning," describes Denise D. about her experience at Maplewood State Park, where wildlife sounds create a memorable camping backdrop.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Mosquitos can be problematic during summer months. "To s of mosquitos though make sure you have spray," warns Sophia P. about her otherwise excellent experience at Buffalo River State Park.
Campsite selection matters: Different loops offer varying levels of privacy. "This is a good site as long as you don't mind the walk," notes Art S. about site 33 at Maplewood State Park, which is isolated but requires a long walk to restrooms.
Trail maintenance varies: Some trails may need more attention than others. "The grass was long and we quickly found ticks crawling up our leg. More trimming of the trails would make hiking more pleasant," cautions a visitor at Maplewood State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Consider electric sites for convenience: Electric sites provide additional comfort but may offer less privacy. "The sites with electrical hook up are less private, but it's a family camping site so it's very friendly. The sites without any hookups are more private and secluded, great for tent camping," explains Leslie R. about her stay at Maplewood.
Check swimming area status: The swimming areas provide family-friendly recreation when open. "The swimming area, with picnic table access and lots of area to picnic," is a highlight for families visiting Red River Valley Fairgrounds during summer months.
Practice runs for new campers: For families new to glamping in Moorhead, Minnesota area, consider testing equipment nearby. "This is a good place to do a practice run for newbies. It is only a few miles from Outlet Recreation also which can be handy if you need something from an RV dealer," suggests Chris A. about Red River Valley Fairgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Noise considerations: At some campgrounds, external noise can be an issue. "Interstate 94 runs by it and nearby trains run all night with horns blaring. There was also someone setting off fireworks in the area where I was camping, and the debris was hitting my camper," warns Duncan G. about his experience at Red River Valley Fairgrounds.
Hookup options: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of services. "The main campground has full hookups. The overflow area only electric," explains Duncan G. about the Red River Valley Fairgrounds, important information for RVers requiring specific connections.
Road conditions: Some campground access roads may be challenging. "Road in is a little rough. The showers are at the main campground with plenty of parking. I wouldn't walk that far for the showers," advises Levi S. about the Knoll loop at Kidder Recreation Area, providing practical advice for RV drivers.
