Bottineau camping areas connect to the Turtle Mountains region, a forested highland rising 800 feet above the surrounding prairie. The area contains numerous small glacial lakes and dense hardwood forests uncommon in North Dakota. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer camping season typically runs May through September with daytime highs in the 70s-80s°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground offers productive fishing from multiple docks. "The park features multiple fishing docks are plentiful," notes Nikki M., who appreciated the convenient water access. Fishing for bluegill is popular, with one camper reporting "We caught 4 good sized bluegill to eat."
Kayaking quiet waters: Strawberry Lake Campgrounds provides a peaceful paddling alternative to busier lakes. "Nice lake to kayak, canoe paddle or fish without worrying about motor boats/noise," according to Erica S. The smaller size makes it ideal for beginners or those seeking quieter water recreation.
Hiking trail network: The area contains over 16 miles of marked trails through the Turtle Mountain State Forest. At International Peace Garden, one visitor recommends: "Wish we had brought bikes. They had hiking trails but didn't get to do them." Trail maps are provided at most campground entrances.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas ideal for cooling off. At Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground, Ason S. found "Great sandy beach & nice water!! Activities set up for families/kids each weekend."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature wooded sites that create natural separation. Carrie H. describes the International Peace Garden sites: "Mature aspen and oak trees make up the majority of the grounds and this makes each site feel super isolated and private."
Peaceful alternative locations: Smaller campgrounds provide quieter options away from busier areas. At Pelican Sandy Recreation Area, Teresa T. enjoyed the "Rustic and quiet" setting, noting "I was there over memorial day weekend and there were two campers and no traffic."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. J S. found Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground offered "clean sites and facilities—nicest public showers we have ever seen!"
Convenient platforms: Several tent camping areas feature raised platforms. Elizabeth S. appreciates International Peace Garden's setup: "We like to choose sites surrounded by trees and this place does not disappoint. Plus, the raised tent platforms are a huge benefit!"
What you should know
Limited cell service: Reception can be spotty throughout the Turtle Mountains region. At Twisted Oaks Equestrian Campground, Erica S. reports "Little to no cell reception (We had 1 bar)."
Cash payment required: Several campgrounds operate with cash-only payment systems. Tanner G. advises Strawberry Lake visitors to "BRING WATER AND $15 cash for overnight fee."
Water quality varies: Not all campgrounds provide potable water. Tanner G. notes at Strawberry Lake that "water from the taste is not filtered good for cleaning dishes" but not for drinking.
Plant hazards: Watch for poison ivy at some sites. Jennie S. warns "There is poison ivy here. There was some on my campsite and some on the interpretive trail" at Lake Metigoshe State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Lake Metigoshe State Park, Ason S. mentions a "Nice playground between loops" with "activities set up for families/kids each weekend."
Beach proximity: Lion Park at Lake Upsilon offers a "Small beach area" though Pam H. notes it's "mostly used by a few locals or family of the cottage owners visiting." Consider visiting on weekdays when water recreation areas are less congested.
Special treats: Some campgrounds feature unexpected amenities. Brandi M. found that Lake Metigoshe State Park even had "an Ice cream truck that rolled thru everyday for the kiddos!"
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning into your trip. Rudy W. suggests "The interpretive learning center is really neat" at Lake Metigoshe State Park, providing indoor activities for rainy days.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: The best places to camp near Bottineau with RV hookups include Lake Metigoshe State Park with water and electric, and International Peace Garden with full hookups. Teresa T. notes International Peace Garden sites are "definitely expensive. 25 to get in and then 25 to camp but full hook ups and nice spots."
Budget alternative: For RVers seeking economical options, Towner City Park offers basic electric sites with a donation-based payment system. Tami D. reports "They ask for a donation in a box posted in the camping area, otherwise free of charge" with "4 electric hook ups" that "look to be both 30 and 50 amp."
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for sanitation needs. Tami D. appreciates that at Towner City Park, the "Bonus was the dump station on the road side into the park!" This free dump station offers convenience for self-contained RVs.
Leveling considerations: Site conditions vary across campgrounds. Carrie H. notes that at International Peace Garden, "Each site has a concrete pad (some tent sites have wooden platforms) so leveling is super easy!"
