Grahams Island State Park Campground sits on a peninsula in Devils Lake, offering a mix of wooded and open sites about 14 miles from Fort Totten, North Dakota. The park's terrain consists of prairie and woodland areas at roughly 1,450 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while winters can drop well below freezing, affecting water availability at some campgrounds after November.
What to do
Fishing at Devils Lake: Multiple campgrounds provide direct lake access with boat ramps. At Grahams Island State Park Campground, visitors enjoy exceptional fishing opportunities. "Awesome views, swimming beach, fishing, hot showers and dog park," notes one reviewer.
Golfing nearby: The Michigan City Park Campground features a unique golf course adjacent to camping areas. "The Duffers Golf Club next to campground is inexpensive, unique and even has clubs available for free use! The members were having a tournament and invited us to join them after our round for an amazing steak dinner and conversation."
Hiking trails: Many campgrounds maintain walking paths through varied terrain. At Grahams Island, one visitor reported, "We stated at Graham's Island the first part of October. No crowds to speak of. Nice trails friendly staff. Would like to return with the paddle boards when the weather is nicer."
Paddleboarding and water sports: Devils Lake offers 330 square miles of water surface. Woodland Resort provides rentals and lake access. "This resort only has about 16 reservable campsites and several cabins. The rest of the resort contains a massive hotel and many seasonal campsites."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Michigan City Park Campground, a camper noted, "Michigan city park campground is a beautiful little park next to a golf course that's well taken care of. Keith the caretaker of the park and Golf course keeps Everything in beautiful condition."
Wildlife viewing: The area's diverse ecosystem attracts birds and wildlife. "We stayed overnight in #67 in the primitive section of the campground. It was completely private surrounded by trees that were full of birds! Primitive area has pit toilets but the shower room and flush toilets were a short walk away."
Weather alerts: Park staff typically monitor conditions and provide warnings. "This campground is very clean. Thanks to the wardens for letting us know about storms in our area and where we go for shelter. Really enjoyed our stay."
Pet-friendly options: Most campgrounds near Fort Totten welcome pets with designated areas. At East Bay Campground, visitors appreciate "a beautiful and spacious campground. Nice office/bait shop, and friendly people. We had a blast camping and fishing."
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Some campgrounds shut off water after October. At Spirit Lake Casino & Resort RV Park, "After November 1 no water at site."
Campsite sizes vary: From primitive to full-hookup, site dimensions differ significantly. "There is another campground with full h/u but no shade and costs more. There is also fully shaded primitive tent camping on the water."
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak summer months. "We didn't stay because we wanted to get further down the road... Electric was available. Vault toilets. On the water. Small park-like. Maybe 4-5 sites..."
Donation-based camping: Some parks operate on honor systems. "No fee but accepts donations. Power at site. Water and toilets nearby. Campsites very near golf course."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "Great spot!! Stopped here on our family vacation. Nice campsites (loop), very clean! Friendly hosts - gave the kids tattoos & stickers. Swim beach was great. Lots of great skipping rocks! Playgrounds were nice & not busy."
Swimming beaches: Devils Lake offers swimming opportunities with gradually sloping shorelines. At Woodland Resort, "The resort contains two swimming beaches if you'd rather stay on shore."
Weather preparation: North Dakota weather can change quickly, requiring proper gear. "There can be flooding. In the winter I believe they have cross-country skiing?"
Local activities: Nearby towns provide additional entertainment options. "Close to the reservation and various Native American cultural areas."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Most campgrounds offer electrical service, but amperage varies. At The Haven Campground, visitors appreciate "Full Hook ups, great owners, quiet and gorgeous location!"
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dumping. "There is a sanitary dump and small store. Great shower house. Very clean and quiet. Many boaters there is a ramp there."
Site leveling: Some spots require adjustment. "Sites are grass mostly level. Free will donation. Did not see a dump station. Very well maintained."
Pet-friendly camping near Fort Totten: Most RV sites accommodate pets with restrictions. "Horseshoes, volleyball, a free travel library with sitting room, firewood, lots of open space to play Frisbee with your pups."
