Ashtabula Lake recreation areas span the Sheyenne Valley watershed with multiple recreation areas between Valley City and Finley, North Dakota. The valley terrain creates sheltered camping options across 3,700 acres of water with fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities. Water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline conditions for tent camping.
What to do
Swimming at designated beaches: At Eggerts Landing, families enjoy the shallow swimming area. "The swimming area is great for young kids as the water is quite shallow, excellent park too!" notes Britney B. Most beaches are gradual entry with no lifeguards on duty.
Fishing from piers and shoreline: The lake offers multiple fishing spots with easy access for anglers. "They also have a great fishing pier," mentions Samantha B. about Eggerts Landing. At Moon Lake, one camper reports, "Fished most of the day while sitting on my chair just in the water. Caught a sunburn and two small perch."
Hiking the North Country Trail: The trail system connects several campgrounds along Lake Ashtabula. At Clausen Springs Park Campground, "the hiking trails are my favorite; they are well-maintained and interconnect with the North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT)," shares one reviewer. Trail markers are visible at most access points.
What campers like
Shaded and private sites: Many Lake Ashtabula campgrounds offer secluded spots. "Spots are secluded and shaded," notes Samantha B. about Eggerts Landing. Another camper adds, "The campsites are all relatively private with a secluded feeling, some more than others of course. There is a good amount of brush and trees separating sites."
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained campground facilities. "Well maintained COE campground... clean bathrooms, men's and woman's have 2 showers each and a family bathroom with one shower," reports David P. about Eggerts Landing. Similar comments appear for other lake area campgrounds.
Lake access and views: Numerous sites offer water access. "Our site which was right on the water (#37) had a nice little access clearing for kayaking," notes one camper about Eggerts Landing. At Mel Rieman Rec, "Most of the campsites have a beautiful view of the lake," according to Leos P.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection at most campgrounds. "Cell service is very limited, makes it a very quiet weekend," notes Jesse B. about Eggerts Landing. At West Ashtabula Crossing, similar connectivity issues exist. Downloading offline maps and information is recommended.
Train noise at some locations: At Faust Park, trains pass regularly. "The train tracks are across the river and maybe 4 or 5 came by during the night," reports Steven L. Another camper noted, "9 trains from mid afternoon to early morning next day, 4 of which at night."
Weather considerations: North Dakota weather changes rapidly. Lake Ashtabula sits in a valley that can funnel winds. "The valley terrain creates numerous sheltered spots for camping away from wind," though exposed sites may experience stronger gusts.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming areas for children: Several beaches cater to families with young children. At Eggerts Landing, "The swimming area is great for young kids as the water is quite shallow, excellent park too!" notes Britney B. Most designated swimming areas maintain gradual depth changes.
Playground options: Look for campgrounds with play equipment. "Beautiful beach for swimming and a nice playground to keep the kids entertained," mentions Samantha B. about Eggerts Landing. At Clausen Springs, campers note "a playground for kids" among the amenities.
Pet-friendly considerations: All major campgrounds welcome pets with leash requirements. At Mel Rieman Rec, one camper reports it's "family friendly" and accommodates pets. For those seeking pet friendly camping near Ashtabula Lake, designated pet areas exist at most locations.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds offer electric sites. At Clausen Springs Park Campground, "The RVs or TTs have access to electric hookups and dumpsites. We all have have access to rural drinking water, shower houses/bathrooms," reports Jo Outdoors. There are "21 electrical sites and 57 primitive" available.
Level sites and access: RVers report mostly level camping pads. "The sites are pretty level clean somewhat close to one another but with the underbrush and trees you are very secluded," notes David P. about Eggerts Landing. When arriving after dark, note that "some of the sites were hard to see" as reported at Clausen Springs.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management accordingly. "There is a dump station and water right at the entrance," reports Deb M. about Eggerts Landing. Most Army Corps campgrounds maintain similar facilities, though some primitive areas lack these amenities.
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