Lake Ashtabula campgrounds in North Dakota feature distinct shoreline terrains that offer camping experiences at 850 feet elevation in the Sheyenne River Valley. The reservoir extends 27 miles from Baldhill Dam with multiple Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds. Primitive camping options extend beyond the main reservoir area, with Moon Lake providing an alternative setting approximately 10 miles south.
What to do
Fishing from shore or pier: Eggerts Landing provides a designated fishing pier near the campground entrance for anglers without boats. "Great campsites through out the park. Cell service is very limited, makes it a very quiet weekend. Nice trail and a cool bench," notes Jesse B., highlighting the peaceful fishing atmosphere.
Kayaking and canoeing: Moon Lake offers a small, quiet setting for paddlers with boat access and minimal crowds. "This tiny campground is right next to a lake with a boat ramp and a covered picnic table," reports Lady Phyre. The calm waters are ideal for beginning paddlers.
Hiking trails: The North Country Trail runs alongside sections of Lake Ashtabula with access points near several campgrounds. "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!" shares Brittany about the Backcountry Campsite.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently praise the wooded sites at Mel Rieman Rec for their sense of seclusion. "Highly recommend if you're looking for a place a little off the beaten track, with serene landscapes and feelings of privacy, with comforts of a few fellow campers," comments Laura G.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "We enjoyed the views of the lake and the rolling hill, the immaculate star gazing, and peacefulness of this camp ground," notes Haylie M. about her experience at Mel Rieman Rec.
Swimming areas: West Ashtabula Crossing features a designated swimming beach popular with families. "This is a great campground for the family; nice park, friendly campers, nice swimming area and an excellent place to watch fireworks on the 4th of July," shares Britney B.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly around the lake, with most campgrounds reporting limited reception. "Do note that cel and wifi access is bad at best. There is a store close by that has access," explains Leos P. about Mel Rieman Rec.
Road conditions: Access to some areas requires travel on unpaved roads. At Faust Park, "Faust Park is located along a maintained gravel road, less than a ½ mile off of the River Road and about 6 miles outside of Valley City," notes Jo Outdoors.
Train noise: Campers at Faust Park report occasional train disturbances. "Trains / rail crossing was 100yards away... 9 trains from mid afternoon to early morning next day, 4 of which at night. Apart from the 3‐4 long horn blasts each time one came by, the actual train passing was not disturbing," explains Gregory.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: East Ashtabula Crossing offers dedicated play areas adjacent to picnic shelters. "Very nice play area for the kids, next to a large covered picnic area for the adults," reports Ross B., making it ideal for family gatherings.
Shallow swimming areas: Several Lake Ashtabula campgrounds feature swimming beaches with gradual entries suitable for young children. David P. notes about Eggerts Landing: "Well maintained COE campground with a great little swimming beach for kids and a modern playground."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to observe local birds and animals. At Moon Lake, one visitor reported, "Gorgeous area! Stopped and immediately found Killdeer, Sandpipers, a muskrat and heard cows in the distance."
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Most campgrounds feature relatively level sites, but some areas require additional equipment. At Moon Lake, Rick M. advises: "The lot is definitely NOT level. Lots of insects, so wear your vetiver."
Dump station locations: Several Army Corps campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities at their entrance areas. "We got potable water at the dump station conveniently located as we entered the CG area," MickandKarla W. explain about Eggerts Landing.
Site selection for big rigs: Campers with larger RVs should research specific sites before booking. "The RV sites here are all 30 AMP electric and we proceeded to back-in spot 20, which was easy to back into off the turn. Site 20 is plenty long," notes MickandKarla W. about their experience at Eggerts Landing.
