Icelandic State Park and Leistikow City Park offer cabin accommodations near Cavalier, North Dakota, where winter temperatures can dip to -10°F while summer averages hover around 80°F. The area sits at approximately 1,000 feet above sea level on the Lake Agassiz Plain, characterized by flat terrain and oak-basswood forests. Spring-fed fens create unique wetland ecosystems throughout the region.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Icelandic State Park features a sandy beach with designated swimming areas. "There is a nice area for families to swim at and also an area for those who want to fish. Many historical sites can be found on the area including the museum in the visitors center," notes Rudy W. about Icelandic State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect natural areas. "This is a small quiet state park in northeast North Dakota that offers a nature preserve with rare plants and birds in a cool bur oak-basswood stand with spring fed fens around it. A nature trail with little footbridges carries you through," explains Janet R. about the hiking options at Leistikow City Park.
Historical exploration: Visit the museum and historical buildings to learn about settlement patterns. Trevor A. mentions, "This is an awesome space with quite a lot to do. There is an amazing museum across the road and many historical buildings on the property."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Sites at Icelandic State Park provide ample room for activities. "I stayed at site 45 and we had a big open yard in front of us. Didn't feel packed at all but I could see it getting uncomfortable if totally sold out for a weekend," notes Trevor A.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower buildings receive consistent maintenance. "The bathrooms and showers were genuinely clean—no bugs, no bad smells, and consistently hot water... unless someone next to you opens a faucet. Pro tip: the family shower room has reliably hot water at all times," reports Denis P. about Icelandic State Park Campground.
Equipment rentals: Affordable water recreation equipment is available. Carrie H. reports, "Rental kayaks and paddle boards for great prices and a concession stand as well. Lots of trees perfectly spaced for hammocks and to hang clotheslines!"
What you should know
Uneven terrain: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Some sites are quite uneven so be sure to have lots leveling equipment if you aren't familiar with your site," warns Carrie H.
Reservation requirements: Book well ahead during peak season. Jeff L. observes about Icelandic State Park Campground, "This is a little hidden gem. Beautiful park with nice well kept bath houses with showers. Nice parks for the kids and ranger activities at night on the weekends."
Fee structure: Expect to pay entrance fees in addition to camping fees. Denis P. notes, "In addition to the campground fee, you also pay a park entrance fee ($7 per vehicle per day, or per entry—not entirely clear)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple play areas available for children. "Playgrounds is great for the kids, bike/hiking trails are very nice. Beach is great for those hot summer days, they also have an ice cream shop down by the beach," reports Stacy B.
Ranger programs: Weekend activities for children are scheduled regularly. "They have different kids activities worth the Park Rangers and some theme weekends," adds Stacy B. about Icelandic State Park Campground.
Beach amenities: The swimming area includes concessions and shade. "Beach was nice - sand, sectioned off swim area, & concessions were open," Ason S. mentions about their family experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup challenges: At Leistikow, utility connections may present difficulties. Bella S. cautions about Leistikow City Park: "Hook-ups are awful—they are behind your RV spot, shared with the RV behind you; shared power pedestals so only one gets 50amp, whoever gets there first; the 20amp breaker was useless."
Internet connectivity: Satellite services work well in open areas. "Our Starlink connection worked perfectly—open skies made for a strong, stable signal," reports Denis P.
Dump station access: Convenient sanitation facilities are available when departing. Stacy B. notes, "We normally stay in the North Loop and have water and electric sites with dump station very accessible when leaving."
