RV camping near Forbes, North Dakota offers convenient stopover options for travelers across McIntosh County. Situated within the James River valley, many camping areas feature relatively flat terrain with limited natural shade. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while shoulder seasons bring cooler temperatures that can drop below freezing at night.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Hoskins RV Park provides boat ramps and fishing docks for anglers seeking local catches. "The park is small it has a couple of boat ramps some fishing docks playground toilets which were closed water which was off and looks like several people probably camp here long-term probably for a special rate," notes Teresa T. about Lake Hoskins RV Park & Campground.
Frisbee golf courses: Several area parks include disc golf layouts for casual players. At Leola City Park, visitors can enjoy "frisbee golf. The little lake has a boat dock and seating around it," according to Bibs O.
Swimming opportunities: Some campgrounds offer swimming access during summer months. Kulm City Campground provides "Free swimming at the town pool next door when they are open," reports Steve H., making it a practical option during hot weather.
What campers like
Quiet midweek camping: Visitors appreciate the tranquility available outside peak times. At Wylie Park Campground, Marc G. notes, "Midweek, though, the place was terrific, maybe 50% occupied. Staff was friendly and welcoming."
Lake views: Waterfront sites offer scenic settings in an otherwise prairie landscape. "Beautiful view of the lake though and protected by the trees so it's a wildly windy day but not too bad we were camped," shares Teresa T. about Lake Lamoure Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained grounds rank high with travelers. Roger G. describes Wylie Park as "a pretty, well maintained park with two bath and shower houses," while noting the shower stalls have "a private area in front of them with a sink for shaving or whatever allowing you to do what you need without taking up space."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Many smaller campgrounds provide basic services only. Regarding Dickey RV Park, Teresa T. explains it "sits in an oxbow of the James River. No real fishing or boating access within the campground and seemingly no activities except road biking if that's your thing."
Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds in the region often feature compact arrangements. Bibs O. reports at Leola City Park, "the sites are very short. From the front of my tow vehicle to the back of my camper is around 22 feet, and both barely make it into the site."
Weather exposure: Many sites lack natural shade coverage. Teresa T. describes Edgeley Campground: "Looks like they have about 15 sites. You're essentially parked in the Sun. With hookups and a patch of grass but otherwise no shade."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several parks offer play equipment for children. Lake Hoskins includes a playground area near the water features, while Leola City Park has a "playground with swings and a slide," according to visitor reviews.
Theme park access: Wylie Park Campground & Storybook Land offers exceptional children's activities. "Great campground with storybook park right next door," shares Jon C., while Mason adds it's a "Great, clean park for families with young kids. Numerous playgrounds scattered all over with a small theme park."
Weekend planning: Anticipate higher occupancy and noise levels during weekends. Marc G. reports Wylie Park is "positively overrun with kids" on weekends with "Kids crying, kids riding their bikes through your campsite," but midweek stays are much quieter.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service verification: Test hookups before settling in. One RVer at Leola City Park notes, "Site 11 was my first choice, stop, but it registered an open ground in the electrics. Site 10 was fine."
Water access points: At some campgrounds, water spigots are shared between multiple sites. Leola City Park has "5 (spaced around) working water spigot for the 12 sites," according to visitor reports.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. Lake Lamoure Campground offers water and electric hookups with "a dump station around the corner," useful information for planning longer stays.
