Lake Hoskins and the James River create popular camping destinations near Forbes, North Dakota. The area sits at approximately 1,400 feet elevation with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August. Winter camping isn't recommended due to temperatures frequently dropping below 10°F and heavy snowfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake Hoskins RV Park & Campground, visitors access multiple boat ramps and fishing docks. "The dam is within walking distance," notes a reviewer who found the area "cute with lots of trees."
Historical exploration: Visit Whitestone Hill Historic Site to learn about significant regional history. One camper described it as having "wide open spaces near cool historic site," while another mentioned the "memorial to what happened on that site" being within walking distance across a small lake.
Frisbee golf: Leola City Park offers frisbee golf facilities for active recreation. "There is also frisbee golf. The little lake has a boat dock and seating around it," reports a visitor who appreciated these amenities despite the "virtually no shade" at the campground.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Campers frequently mention the peaceful settings. "Quiet place to spend the night and do some fishing," noted one visitor about Whitestone Hill Historic Site, while another described it as "beautiful" with "wide open spaces."
Water recreation: Lake Lamoure Campground features multiple water access points. "There's a beach, boat dock, fishing dock, and a boat launch right here in this campground," shares a reviewer who appreciated the "beautiful view of the lake" despite noting it would be "hot in the summer" due to limited shade.
Well-maintained facilities: Mina Lake Recreation Area receives praise for its upkeep and layout. "Well-spaced sites, nice grassy lawns, and most sites back up right to the water," noted one visitor who described the area as "absolutely beautiful" and "stunningly gorgeous."
What you should know
Limited services: Many campgrounds have basic facilities only. At Whitestone Hill Historic Site, a camper noted "there are no services here, there's a bathroom, a couple of picnic tables, but it's a big wide open space that I'm sure you can park anywhere you want."
Weather protection: Tree coverage varies significantly between sites. Lake Lamoure Campground offers some protection as one camper mentioned being "protected by the trees so it's a wildly windy day but not too bad where we were camped."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Richmond Lake Recreation Area is one exception that remains open year-round, providing an option for off-season camping opportunities when weather permits.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer family-friendly equipment. Leola City Park includes a "playground with swings and a slide" according to a recent visitor who appreciated the "very well maintained campground" despite the lack of shade.
Storybook theme park: Wylie Park Campground provides exceptional family entertainment. "Great, clean park for families with young kids. Numerous playgrounds scattered all over with a small theme park," shares one camper. Another noted it's "right next to Storybook Land" making it "great for families."
Beach activities: Mina Lake Recreation Area offers swimming options for children. "Kids love the beach," reported one visitor who also appreciated the "nice hiking trail" available at this location.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Lamoure County Memorial Park offers necessary connections. "Each spot has electric and water," notes a camper who appreciated the "very nice bathrooms and showers." The reviewer also mentioned, "There are a few different dump stations."
Site spacing considerations: Pay attention to campground layouts. At Wylie Park, a visitor observed it "may be a little snug for some at the busy time of the year," though they appreciated that "shower stalls have a private area in front of them with a sink."
Limited shade options: Many RV parks have minimal tree coverage. Edgeley Campground features sites where "you're essentially parked in the sun with hookups and a patch of grass but otherwise no shade," making it suitable for "people who come to do sports or something else in town during the summer."
