Casselton, North Dakota sits at 925 feet elevation in the relatively flat Red River Valley region. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F and winter temperatures often below freezing. Camping options near Casselton remain predominantly seasonal, with most campgrounds closing from late October through April due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Prairie hiking trails: Buffalo River State Park Campground offers several looping trails where visitors can create hikes ranging from 15 minutes to two hours. "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," noted Patrick M.
Canoeing and kayaking: Fort Ransom State Park Campground provides river access for paddlers with rental equipment available on-site. "We really wished we had rented a canoe or kayak (from the park) but it was a holiday weekend so they were all gone by the time we sauntered out of the tent near noon," shared Lynn G. The park sits along the Sheyenne River with multiple access points.
Vineyard visits: Located near the Red Trail Vineyard RV Park, visitors can enjoy vineyard views while camping. "The grapes growing next to us was a nice view to wake up to," mentioned Ariel, though the campground itself offers minimal amenities in an open field setting.
What campers like
Easy access locations: Buffalo RV Park offers a convenient location with proximity to local establishments. "Nice clean city park with RV sites in back, 8 sites, wide sites with fire rings. Well maintained. No bath house but full hookup and trashcan available. 5 min walk to Old 10 Saloon, nice inside good service," reported Beth B.
Natural surroundings: Jorgen's Hollow Campground provides a quiet natural setting in the Sheyenne Grasslands. "Abundant flowers and butterflies. Even a couple prairie chickens. What a wonderful night," commented Dillon M. The campground features a hand pump for water and vault toilets.
Swimming opportunities: Some parks offer swimming areas during summer 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," wrote Brianna V. about Buffalo River State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most RV campgrounds near Casselton operate only during warm months. "This is a year round multi-use state park along the forest-lined Sheyenne River and near the Sheyenne National Grasslands," noted Janet R. about Fort Ransom State Park, one of the few year-round options in the region.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others place RVs close together. "The sites are in a lowland area adjacent to the river floodplain so could be a concern at times of heavy rain," commented Janet R.
Bug preparation essential: Summer camping requires insect protection. "Don't forget bug repellent. In as many forms as you can wear," advised Ariel at Red Trail Vineyard RV Park. Mosquitoes are particularly active in early summer and near water sources.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. "2 great playgrounds nearby for the kiddos. We were on site B9 and it was spacious. However the road noise from the freeway was pretty loud," mentioned Amy K. about Lindenwood Campground.
Educational opportunities: Fort Ransom State Park features historic attractions suitable for children. "Very green park with alot of history, including a preserved farm about early white settlers," reported Lynn G., making it a good option for families interested in educational experiences.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campsites. "All we heard were cars and trucks all night long. Hardly slept. But it is a nice park to visit during the day," Susan M. noted about Lindenwood Campground's location near Interstate 94.
Tips from RVers
Reservation systems vary: Different RV campgrounds near Casselton have distinct booking processes. "Use city registration site to reserve site, no sign in at front area needed," explained Beth B. about Buffalo RV Park's online system.
Full hookup availability: Confirm utility connections before booking. "Sites at Buffalo RV Park accommodate large vehicles with easy access from I-94," while other locations like Jorgen's Hollow Campground offer no hookups at all. "Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring and most had nice level places to park," reported Nick.
Site selection strategy: At larger campgrounds, location within the park matters. "Would recommend staying in the B lot, spots are spaced apart more, facing the river, and are further away from the Interstate," advised Ross B. regarding Lindenwood Campground.
