Jorgen's Hollow Campground sits within the Sheyenne National Grassland, a unique 70,000-acre tallgrass prairie ecosystem in southeastern North Dakota. The campground rarely exceeds 30% capacity during weekdays, offering solitude for campers seeking quiet prairie experiences. Sites are spaced generously with approximately 50-100 feet between neighbors, providing natural buffers of native prairie grasses and occasional shade trees.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The Sheyenne Grasslands offer minimal light pollution for exceptional night sky viewing. "A midnight walk let all the stars strut their stuff," notes Art S. about Jorgen's Hollow Campground.
Prairie wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide prime viewing hours for native grassland species. "Lots of woodpeckers to see and coyotes calling at dusk. Sheyenne river nearby," reports Layne W. from his Jorgen's Hollow experience.
Seasonal hiking: The North Country Trail passes directly through several campgrounds, offering varied terrain. According to Will H. at Maplewood State Park Campground, "Easily a contender for best hiking trails in the MN state parks state system. This western park offers miles of hiking with the North Country Trail weaving throughout."
What campers like
Uncrowded weekday camping: Most equestrian campgrounds near Fargo remain below capacity Sunday through Thursday. "Not sure what it's like on weekends, but arrived on a Tuesday in August; I was the second camper to arrive," mentions Dillon M. about Jorgen's Hollow.
Seasonal wildflower displays: Prairie ecosystems showcase diverse flora from May through September. Dillon adds that the grasslands offer "abundant flowers and butterflies. Even a couple prairie chickens."
Private walk-in site options: Some parks offer secluded backpacking options for tent campers. Shawn A. describes Beers Hike-In Site: "The walk is an easy walk. There is a nice fire pit and good area for fishing right at the site. Also there is a picnic table and a vault toilet."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Prairie winds can be substantial, particularly in spring and fall months. "In the evening the best part was listening to the trees in the breeze," notes Don C., highlighting the persistent wind at Jorgen's Hollow Campground.
Water quality varies: Hand pumps at some sites may produce sediment-heavy water. "You might consider bringing your own water - the water from the pump has particulates in it," advises Art S. from his camping experience.
Pack-in, pack-out requirements: Most horse campgrounds near Fargo, North Dakota lack trash service. "This is also a 'pack it in, pack it out place' for now. Bring your trash out with you," explains a visitor to Jorgen's Hollow.
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Ticks and flies are common in grassland environments from May through September. Nick from Jorgen's Hollow Campground advises campers to be prepared: "National forest campground. First come first served only with no attendant. There's on manual pump well and two vault toilets."
Site selection strategy: Prairie sites vary significantly in shade coverage and wind exposure. "Campsites are very different. Choose one in the shade or sun. Some have more space than others," Art S. mentions about his Jorgen's Hollow experience.
Noise considerations: Equestrian sites include typical horse-related sounds. "Horses are also welcome here, so there are some horse noises that may be startling if not expected (clanking metal, etc)," notes Rachel O.
Tips from RVers
Road access notes: Gravel roads lead to most camping areas but remain generally well-maintained. "3 miles of gravel road to the campground but the road was smooth and in good condition," reports Nick about accessing the Jorgen's Hollow area.
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are limited to specific campgrounds and loops. Leslie R. notes about Maplewood State Park: "The sites with electrical hook up are less private, but it's a family camping site so it's very friendly. The sites without any hookups are more private and secluded, great for tent camping."
Bathroom facility distances: Some loops require significant walks to reach facilities. "The campsites are reasonable and private. But if you're not in the main loop you'll be walking for half a mile round trip," warns Oliver I. about Maplewood State Park.
