Campers visiting Fargo, North Dakota can access a variety of camping options within a 50-mile radius of the city. The Red River Valley region sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level with relatively flat terrain that experiences wide temperature swings between seasons. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for camping near Fargo.
What to do
Swimming at dedicated beaches: Long Lake Campsite and RV Resort features a large sandy beach area where campers can escape the summer heat. "Large sandy beach and beautiful swimming area, store for convenience if forgetful, helpful and friendly staff, huge parking and play area for kids," notes camper Travis L.
Hiking prairie trails: Jorgen's Hollow Campground offers direct access to the North Country Trail through the Sheyenne Grasslands. "The North Country Trail goes right through camp. Hike (or ride your horse) it into the grasslands or the other way to join more trails," shares Art S. The campground features several easy loops ranging from 15 minutes to 2 hours.
River activities: Lindenwood Campground provides opportunities for kayaking along the Red River. "Clean, lots of paved trails, easy access to kayak, only thing missing is a place to swim!" mentions camper M C. The park offers kayak and canoe rentals during peak season for those without their own equipment.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: Rural campgrounds like Jorgen's Hollow offer exceptional night sky viewing away from city lights. "Great stargazing. Clean water and vault toilets. Great access to the NCT. Great signage. Well kept," notes Rachel O. The open grassland setting provides unobstructed views of the night sky.
Spacious, level sites: Buffalo River State Park Campground receives praise for its well-maintained campsites. "Spectacularly well-maintained campground along the Buffalo River in western Minnesota, half an hour east of Fargo, ND. Two small loops of campsites, one with electrical service and the other without," explains Patrick M. Sites offer good spacing and natural screening.
Wildlife viewing: The Sheyenne Grasslands area supports diverse wildlife. "Lots of woodpeckers to see and coyotes calling at dusk. Sheyenne river nearby," mentions Layne W. about Jorgen's Hollow Campground. The prairie ecosystem supports birds, butterflies, and occasional larger mammals.
What you should know
Traffic noise varies significantly: Some campgrounds near Fargo experience highway noise issues. "Lindenwood is a pretty park but you are right off of 94 and the bridge that crosses the Red River from Minnesota to North Dakota. All we heard were cars and trucks all night long," warns Susan M. Select sites further from highways when possible.
Seasonal insect activity: Bug spray is essential during warmer months. "Don't forget bug repellent. In as many forms as you can wear," advises camper Ariel about their stay at Red Trail Vineyard RV Park. Mosquitoes can be particularly active near water sources during summer evenings.
Limited reservation windows: Many smaller campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. "First come first served only with no attendant. There's one manual pump well and two vault toilets," notes Nick about Jorgen's Hollow. Contact campgrounds directly about reservation policies before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "2 great playgrounds nearby for the kiddos. We were on site B9 and it was spacious," shares Amy K. about Lindenwood Campground. These facilities provide entertainment options beyond hiking trails.
Swimming options for kids: Buffalo River State Park offers designated swimming areas. "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," reports Brianna V.
Urban camping considerations: Families should be aware of safety concerns at urban campgrounds. "Saw the occasional local homeless person come utilize the facility which also made us nervous. Nothing ever happened but could be safety issue with children," notes Jeff B. about Lindenwood Campground. Select sites away from public thoroughfares when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Vineyard camping option: Red Trail Vineyard RV Park offers a unique setting among grape vines. "This looks like a new site, made in a flat field near the vineyard. It is basically an open flat field with power/water hook ups in the middle and 14 gravel spots on either side," explains Ariel. The site lacks shade but provides a different camping atmosphere.
Small town RV spots: Buffalo RV Park provides easy access 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," shares Beth B. Online registration simplifies the check-in process.
Weekday vs. weekend occupancy: RV parks near Fargo show significant occupancy differences between weekdays and weekends. "My visit was mid-week, mid-summer and merely passing through. The staff was wonderful and the area clean and picked-up. That said, the campground probably has 20% more trailers in place than need be," notes Douglas B. about Long Lake Campsite-RV Resort. Weekdays typically offer more space and quieter camping conditions at rv campgrounds in Fargo, North Dakota and surrounding areas.
