Camping near Ashtabula Lake

Lake Ashtabula in North Dakota supports multiple campgrounds managed primarily by the Army Corps of Engineers, providing varied options for overnight stays. The area features established sites at Eggerts Landing, East and West Ashtabula Crossing, and Mel Rieman Recreation Area, all offering electric hookups for RVs alongside tent camping areas. Most campgrounds circle the reservoir created by Baldhill Dam on the Sheyenne River, with sites situated either along wooded shorelines or on elevated areas overlooking the water. Moon Lake offers a more primitive camping experience with both established and dispersed camping options approximately 10 miles south of the main reservoir.

Camping season at Lake Ashtabula typically runs from early May through late September, with most services closed during winter months. The campgrounds feature a mix of amenities, with all offering vault or flush toilets and trash collection. Water access points are common, making the area popular for fishing and boating activities. Cell service varies significantly around the lake, with several reviewers noting limited connectivity at certain campgrounds. One camper at Eggerts Landing noted: "Very limited Verizon service, and no AT&T service. No firewood available in the park. It would have been nice to have a campground map somewhere."

The wooded sites at Eggerts Landing receive particularly high ratings from visitors who appreciate the privacy between campsites created by mature trees and underbrush. Several reviewers highlighted the family-friendly amenities, including swimming areas with shallow water for children and playground facilities. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere even when campgrounds are near capacity. "The campground is clean, quiet, and beautiful. We enjoyed the views of the lake and rolling hills, the immaculate star gazing, and peacefulness of this campground," shared one visitor to Mel Rieman Recreation Area. Free primitive camping is available at Faust Park along the Sheyenne River about 6 miles from Valley City, offering basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets for those seeking a more rustic experience.

Best Camping Sites Near Ashtabula Lake (60)

    1. Eggerts Landing

    8 Reviews
    Valley City, ND
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 845-2970

    $20 - $26 / night

    "The website instructions say to take exit 292 off I 94 but our RV GPS and Google Maps showed exit 294, which is probably a new exit."

    "Most of this sites are wooded and private, and the ones close to the lake had easy access to go see the lake. Shower/bathrooms are nice and clean."

    2. Mel Rieman Rec

    7 Reviews
    Valley City, ND
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 845-2970

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Stopped here on our way through North Dakota, perfect site with flushable bathrooms, good water and a beautiful sunrise."

    "Most of the campsites have a beautiful view of the lake. The access roads are asphalt. Security comes around regularly. We had a wonderful experience."

    3. Faust Park

    9 Reviews
    Valley City, ND
    10 miles
    Website

    "This park is maintained and managed by the Barnes County Wildlife Club and North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Camping is free and allowed for a maximum of 10 consecutive days."

    "About 8 miles from i94 (3-4 miles of gravel road) this is nice clean camping area close to the river. We have a eurovan and parked in the parking lot - no specific camping spots were marked."

    4. West Ashtabula Crossing

    4 Reviews
    Valley City, ND
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 845-2970

    $20 - $26 / night

    "This is a remote site along the North Country Trail. It's well maintained, has personalized benches around a custom fire pit. There's a pit toilet hiding in the woods next to it."

    "We were confused because across the lake we could see at least 10 tents set up. I also thought $26 was a little steep to stay the night. The camp ground had many trees though, which i love."

    5. East Ashtabula Crossing

    1 Review
    Valley City, ND
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 845-2970

    $20 - $52 / night

    "Very nice play area for the kids, next to a large covered picnic area for the adults. everyone was very friendly and the view over the river was beautiful."

    6. Moon Lake

    12 Reviews
    Valley City, ND
    19 miles

    "I parked right next to the lake and watched the ducks. The overnight was very quiet and dark, perfect for sleeping. There are trees surrounding the little campground."

    "This tiny campground is right next to a lake with a boat ramp and a covered picnic table. In the far left corner (if you're facing the lake) is a little nook surrounded by trees and shrubs."

    7. Backcountry Campsite

    1 Review
    John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake, AR
    8 miles
    +1 (701) 845-2970

    "My kids and I enjoyed this site on our hike along the NCT on Lake Ashtabula. The primitive toilet even had a mailbox with toilet paper!"

    8. COE Baldhill Dam Ashtabula Crossing

    2 Reviews
    John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake, AR
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 845-2970

    9. Valley City National Fish Hatchery

    1 Review
    Valley City, ND
    11 miles
    +1 (701) 845-3464

    10. Moon Lake

    5 Reviews
    Valley City, ND
    19 miles
    Website

    "A quiet place away from the crazy of everyday life right now."

    "Nice spot by a lake, with three stone fire rings and a couple picnic tables. We got the spot surrounded by trees on three sides which was nice, the rest are open."

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Recent Reviews near Ashtabula Lake

152 Reviews of 60 Ashtabula Lake Campgrounds


  • James V.
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Barnes County Park Clausen Springs Recreation Area

    Wonderful county rec area and campground.

    I can't say enough about this little gem along I-94. Site 10 was perfectly level for my 25 ft rig, and probably for up to a 30-35 ft rig as well. Trails and sites were very well maintained and there is a small creek running though the camping area. Everything has the look of being well taken care of. Low light pollution meant a wonderful night sky. 

    There is also a well maintained sandy area by the small lake and trails that loop around the area. Plenty far off the interstate to be very quiet. Cell coverage was plenty good for me, however the local Internet provider does supply wifi for$5/day or I believe$15/week. I didn't try it but the signal was strong. 

    The only caveat I should mention is that there is 2.5-3 miles of gravel on the trip from the Interstate to the campground. I can't imagine a much better place to spend the night while passing through the area. Everything demonstrated that Barnes County really cared about have a great rec area.

  • CJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Moon Lake

    Very easy

    Dirt road coming in was. Little rough but the place is very chill. Camping for under 10 days at a time is free. Pull in and park anywhere in the grass and sleep in your camper/tent. Very easy and chill

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Moon Lake

    Convenient

    Close to the interstate. Not a lot of space but not a lot of people. Good stop on a drive day.

  • katherine W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Moon Lake

    Second time staying here

    Make the “about 10mile” drive off 94 , 5 miles of dirt. Nice spot with lake, pavilion and toilet.

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Buffalo RV Park

    Clean, convenient, some mosquitoes

    Spacious, easy access, level sites with convenient hookups and garbage can at each site. Open landscape, but good space between sites. Price now $35 not $25. Good number of mosquitoes requires bug spray, and keeping RV buttoned up, or stay inside.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Faust Park

    Bad Verizon signal, free, but no water or gray water. Trash cans available, though.

    They have trash cans, but no water, no grey dump, and bad fries and signal. Other than that, it seems to be pretty decent so far.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Moon Lake

    No potable water or gray dump. 10 day stay limit.

    There are trash cans, a beach, a lake, and you need to Park on the grass. My 16,000lb bus parked in the grass without issue but it was bone dry when we parked there.

    The lot is definitely NOT level. Lots of insects, so wear your vetiver.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Faust Park

    Pit toilets and Apple trees!

    The parking lot is fairly level so I didn’t bother disconnecting from the TV. The pit toilets could be cleaner but not a complaint, bring your broom with and sweep them out as a thanks for a place to hang your hat. There is a landing for canoes or kayaks and a trailer selling firewood.

    I was the in late August and there were 4 apple trees with ripe apples! Bugs weren’t too bad.

    The train tracks are across the river and maybe 4 or 5 came by during the night.

    I have Spectrum mobile cell service and got zero signal but was able to send and receive texts via satellite.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Limesand Seefeldt Dam

    Free dispersed camping on a small lake

    There are essentially 3 dispersed spots on an overlook to a small fishing and kayaking lake. There are no services. You get a pretty view and a quiet night of camping. Great little access for a paddle boat.


Guide to Ashtabula Lake

Camping near Ashtabula Lake, North Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy nature and relax.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Ashtabula Lake is a great spot for fishing. One camper at Eggerts Landing mentioned, "The sites close to the lake had easy access to go see the lake," making it convenient for anglers.
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds, like Pelican Point Landing, have swimming areas. A review noted, "Decent swimming with boat landing," perfect for cooling off on hot days.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Fort Ransom State Park. A visitor shared, "There are bunches of trails to hike," which is great for those who love to walk and enjoy nature.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Mel Rieman Rec said, "Highly recommend if you’re looking for a place... with clean toilets and showers."
  • Privacy between sites: Many campers enjoy the spaciousness of sites. A visitor at Eggerts Landing remarked, "We really liked the privacy between sites due to the vegetation and trees."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like Clausen Springs Park Campground are great for families. One review highlighted, "It's fun for the entire family," thanks to amenities like playgrounds and swimming areas.

What you should know:

  • Limited cell service: Many campgrounds, such as Pelican Point Landing, have poor cell reception. A camper noted, "Basically no cell service," so be prepared to disconnect.
  • No showers at some sites: Not all campgrounds offer showers. A visitor at Little Yellowstone County Park mentioned, "Vault toilets were pretty clean. No showers."
  • Wildlife encounters: Campers often see wildlife. One reviewer at Fort Ransom State Park shared, "We saw an incredible amount of wildlife in our one day stay," which adds to the camping experience.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose campgrounds with amenities: Look for places like Clausen Springs Park Campground, which has a playground and swimming area. A family noted, "The camp hosts were respectful and extremely nice."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to bring fishing gear or swimming suits. One camper at Eggerts Landing said, "The swimming area is nice for kids or adults to enjoy."
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand is essential, especially for kids. A visitor at Mel Rieman Rec mentioned, "There is a store close by that has access," making it easy to grab supplies.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Pelican Point Landing noted, "Sayed in a 36 ft 5th wheel and had no issues getting it setup."
  • Look for electric hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric hookups. One camper at Eggerts Landing mentioned, "The RV sites here are all 30 AMP electric."
  • Be prepared for rough terrain: Some campgrounds may have uneven ground. A visitor at Faust Park said, "Prob not good for bigger RVs," so check the conditions before you go.

Camping near Ashtabula Lake, North Dakota, has something for everyone. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the designated campgrounds at Lake Ashtabula?

Lake Ashtabula offers several designated campgrounds around its shores. East Ashtabula Crossing provides drive-in access with reservable sites and is a popular option for visitors. Eggerts Landing is accessible via I-94 exits 292 or 294 and offers waterfront camping opportunities. Other camping areas include Mel Rieman Recreation Area, Pelican Point Landing, and COE Baldhill Dam Ashtabula Crossing. The campgrounds are situated to provide good access to the lake for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

What amenities are available at Lake Ashtabula camping areas?

Lake Ashtabula campgrounds offer various amenities to enhance your camping experience. Mel Rieman Rec provides flushable bathrooms and good water access. Faust Park, managed by the Barnes County Wildlife Club and North Dakota Game and Fish Department, offers free camping with plenty of open lawn space for multiple tents. Most Lake Ashtabula campgrounds feature basic amenities like toilets, drinking water, and boat ramps. Some locations also have playgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Hookup availability varies by campground, with some offering electric and water connections for RVs.

When is the camping season for Lake Ashtabula?

The camping season at Lake Ashtabula typically runs from late spring through early fall, with peak season during the summer months (June through August). Most campgrounds are open from May to September, weather permitting. Jamestown Dam/Lakeside Marina Campground in the same region tends to be busiest on weekends but quieter midweek during the season. Brewer Lake Rec Area, another nearby option, is well-maintained throughout the camping season. Off-season availability is limited, with most facilities closing during winter months due to North Dakota's harsh winter conditions.