Fort Ransom State Park sits in the Sheyenne River Valley at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, where the terrain transitions from prairie to forested hillsides. The park offers year-round cabin accommodations within distinct ecological zones that support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Campers can choose from several types of enclosed lodging structures while exploring the North Country National Scenic Trail that passes through the park.
What to do
Canoe or kayak the Sheyenne River: Rentals available directly from Fort Ransom State Park Campground for exploring the river that winds through the park. "We didn't explore much of the park unfortunately. We really wished we had rented a canoe or kayak (from the park) but it was a holiday weekend so they were all gone by the time we sauntered out of the tent near noon," notes Lynn G. from Fort Ransom State Park Campground.
Hike the North Country Trail: Access nearly 20 miles of trails directly from cabin sites, with routes suitable for different skill levels. A camper at Jamestown Dam/Lakeside Marina Campground explains, "It is not technically 'lakeside' but about a half mile walk across the highway to get to the lake. It is well kept. Playground was nice and our kiddos loved it."
Explore local history: Visit the preserved pioneer farm and interpretive center to learn about early settlers. "Very green park with alot of history, including a preserved farm about early white settlers. We met some people who were staying here with their horses - how fun! Wide open green spaces, lovely," shares a Fort Ransom State Park visitor.
What campers like
Secluded riverside sites: The primitive camping area at Fort Ransom offers tent sites away from RVs and generators. "Next time will stay on the other side of the river at their 'primitive' campsites. Those sites are all in the trees and secluded. Also has walk-in tent sites. Plenty of local hiking trails right from the campsite," reports Dan C. at Fort Ransom State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early spring and fall offer excellent wildlife spotting with fewer crowds. "It was very early in April and still very cold so I literally had the place to myself but we saw an incredible amount of wildlife in our one day stay. Also there are bunches of trails to hike and the town is close and worth exploring," shares Teresa T.
Special seasonal events: The park hosts unique themed weekends throughout the year. "Sodbuster Days, Halloween in June and Christmas in July is a must. Also the historical building in the area is a cool thing to see!" mentions Rudy W.
What you should know
Cabin options vary significantly: Beyond standard camping cabins, specialty accommodations include pioneer structures, covered wagons, and yurts. "This seems to be a big park for horse campers and they are well set up for that with corrals and designated horse campgrounds," explains a reviewer at Fort Ransom State Park.
Weather considerations: Open field sites experience strong winds while forested areas provide shelter but may have seasonal mosquitoes. A camper at Jamestown Campground noted, "Maticulatly cared for campground, safe, friendly, a nice place to rest, small but pretty walking trail that the kids can bike. Mosquitoes in August."
Reservation timing: Popular cabin rentals fill quickly, especially for summer weekends and special events. "Book early as it is a popular area," advises a camper at Jamestown Dam/Lakeside Marina Campground who spent 43 days there.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jamestown area campgrounds maintain child-friendly facilities near cabin areas. "It was very quiet for us. Lots of shade trees... Playground was nice and our kiddos enjoyed it," shares Stacy M. about Jamestown Dam/Lakeside Marina Campground.
Educational opportunities: Staff at Fort Ransom often provide kid-focused programming about local wildlife and history. "Surprise: the camp staff were especially great with lots of stories to entertain the preschooler and grandma!" notes Lynn G.
Weekend activities: Check local event calendars for family-friendly options near cabins. "Jamestown speedway dirt track has races every Saturday evening during the summer and we were able to catch the season opener in May. The world's largest buffalo is also nearby," mentions a Jamestown visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Some camping cabins near Fort Ransom offer more seclusion than others based on positioning. "There is a standard campground for car camping, campers and RVs with the usual amenities, then there is the so-called 'primitive' campground which is for tents only, either in drive in tent campsites, or at walk-in tent sites that are very spacious and right on the river!" explains Janet R. about Fort Ransom State Park Campground.
Extended stay options: Some facilities allow longer cabin rentals with site changes required periodically. "We spent 43 days here last summer. Well kept campground. Hosts are the nicest people you will meet and extremely helpful. You will have to change sites every 14 days if you are going to be staying a long time."
Delivery services: Some parks will bring purchased supplies directly to your cabin site. "Firewood for sale at the gift shop and they drop it off to your site," mentions Brittany about their experience at Fort Ransom State Park.
