Campers seeking RV accommodations near Crosby, North Dakota will find several options within an hour's drive radius. Located in the northwestern corner of North Dakota, this area experiences continental climate patterns with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds operate seasonally due to harsh winter conditions, with limited services available during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Kota Ray Dam, perch fishing can be particularly productive during certain times. "Perch are hot right now. Along with a few other species in this little lake. Fun place to go for the weekend far enough out of town to feel like a getaway," notes camper Kori P. The dam creates favorable conditions for various fish species.
Swimming access: Limited swimming areas exist in the region's small lakes and reservoirs. "The swimming beach is pretty decent, the campsites aren't too terrible, the bathrooms are usually cleaned well and they have lots of picnic shelters," reports Leah N. about Kota Ray Dam. Swimming is typically restricted to designated beach areas.
Water recreation: Blacktail Dam offers access for small watercraft with shore launch points. "All camp spots are right on the water, though most of them have cat tails and thick vegetation making it difficult to get to the water," explains Leah N. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities on the calmer waters.
What campers like
Proximity to water: Most sites at Blacktail Dam provide water views. "All camp spots are right on the water," writes Leah N., making it easy for anglers to access fishing spots throughout the day. The layout maximizes scenic value despite the limited shoreline.
Quiet atmosphere: The rural setting creates relatively peaceful camping conditions when not at capacity. "Cute and quiet but can fill up fast with campers. Get there early to get a good spot," advises Kori P. about Kota Ray Dam. Weekdays typically offer more solitude than weekends.
Family-friendly facilities: Several campgrounds maintain playground equipment and picnic areas. "They have a nice playground for the kids, some picnic shelters, bathrooms and garbage cans," reports a visitor to Blacktail Dam. Most recreation areas include basic amenities designed for family use.
What you should know
Site selection challenges: Kota Ray Dam campsites vary significantly in levelness and accessibility. "I would suggest you come here first before picking a site. The ones on the loop on the hill are more level," recommends Kerry K. Online reservation systems may not accurately represent actual site conditions.
Seasonal availability: Water and restroom facilities typically close during colder months. "Everything was closed I'm here in April so I would have been the only camper had I stayed. But the bathrooms aren't open and the water is not on yet," reports Teresa T. about early season camping at Blacktail Dam.
Holiday congestion: Expect limited availability during summer holidays and weekends. "Around the 4th of July can get super busy," notes Jackie R. about Blacktail Dam. The small size of these recreation areas means they reach capacity quickly during peak periods.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access planning: Fox Run RV Park provides more consistent services for families needing reliable facilities. "We stayed here while I was working we liked it alot," shares Jesse S. The more developed commercial parks often offer amenities lacking at the smaller county facilities.
Swimming considerations: Designated swimming areas are limited in size. "It's not a big beach area so busy days it can be a little crowded. It is nice and sandy and great for the kiddos, though," notes a visitor to Blacktail Dam. Parents should supervise children closely as most water access points lack lifeguards.
Recreation alternatives: When fishing is slow, have backup activities planned. "We have been here camping once in early May, the fish weren't biting then," shares Kori P. about Kota Ray Dam. Bringing bikes, yard games, and other entertainment options helps during slow fishing periods.
Tips from RVers
Electrical access limitations: At most campgrounds near Crosby, electrical hookups have placement constraints. "Turns out it had a big hump in the middle of it and the power was on the wrong side a to far away to reach," reports Kerry K. about Williston Village RV Resort. Extension cords and adapters are essential equipment.
Road condition awareness: Access roads to smaller recreation areas require cautious driving. "The road in if you can call it that was pretty worn out. First part was bumpy and patched tar. The rest was gravel so had to go slow," warns a visitor about Kota Ray Dam. RVers should research recent road conditions before committing to remote locations.
Dump station logistics: Plan waste management carefully as dump stations are limited. "I'm told there's a dump station, but haven't looked at it yet," notes a camper at Kota Ray Dam. Some campgrounds like Lake Park offer dump stations but no sewer hookups, requiring strategic tank management during longer stays.
