Devils Lake and the Fort Totten area contain several RV camping options within a region characterized by prairie lakes and rolling grasslands. At an elevation of approximately 1,450 feet, the area experiences distinct seasonal changes with warm summers and cold winters. Water levels at Devils Lake fluctuate substantially from year to year, which can affect shoreline camping conditions and boat launch access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Grahams Island State Park Campground provides excellent fishing access with boat launches and fishing docks. "This park is on an island in the middle of a beautiful huge lake. You just drive out over a bridge, very pretty. If you don't want to camp you can use it just to launch your boat for a day of fishing or use their very easy hiking trails," notes Lynn G. in her review of Grahams Island State Park Campground.
Swimming areas: McVille Dam Campground offers water recreation during summer months. "I stayed one night and explored the area and town. The campground is nice and well maintained. The town is cute," says Teresa T. about McVille Dam Campground.
Hiking trails: Grahams Island features accessible trails for various skill levels. Chuck S. mentions, "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."
Winter activities: Some parks remain open during winter months, with potential for cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Lynn G. notes about Grahams Island: "In the winter I believe they have cross-country skiing?"
What campers like
Private camping spots: Many campers appreciate the secluded primitive sites at Grahams Island. "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," reports Janet K.
Clean facilities: Bowdon RV Park receives positive reviews for maintenance. "Beautiful park at the edge of town. It's busier than expected, there was only one spot with hookups left but it's all we needed. The bathrooms and showers are clean," writes Kim H. about Bowdon RV Park.
Convenient town access: Off Main RV Park provides walkable access to services. "1 block from beautiful Main Street shopping, Ambulance & City Hall. 2 blocks from Laundromat, Theater, Clinic, Cafes, Bars, & Police station," explains Jim L. in his review of Off Main RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: The primitive camping areas often provide better opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. As Janet K. noted about her stay at Grahams Island, the trees surrounding her site were "full of birds."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many RV parks in the region operate seasonally. Jan's RV Park in Leeds runs from April through October while some sites like Spirit Lake Casino remain open year-round.
Water access changes: During fall and winter, some services are reduced. Bruce notes about Spirit Lake Casino & Resort RV Park: "After November 1 no water at site."
Reservation importance: Mark & Kelly G. mention about McVille Dam: "We didn't stay because we wanted to get further down the road... Campground host. Dump station... Quite a few sites..." suggesting that while spaces may be available, planning ahead is advisable.
Site levelness: Some campsites require equipment to level RVs properly. Jan's RV Park has mostly level sites according to reviews, with Sheila T. noting: "This was a good site for us as we passed through on a long road trip. The site was level and hookups were well-positioned."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Clean Slate D. mentions about Grahams Island: "Well kept park. We stayed in the Ziebach campground. It has trees, water and electricity."
Swimming beaches: Grahams Island offers designated swimming areas with beaches. "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," shares Ason S.
Event facilities: Some campgrounds have gathering spaces for family events. Leah A. notes about Grahams Island State Park: "The event center is really nice with kitchen, bathrooms, outdoor seating, and playground. lots to do at this lake campground. staff was very helpful and accommodating with the event and camping."
Dog-friendly areas: Certain parks have dedicated pet spaces. Leah A. continues: "dog park is nothing more than a little fenced off piece of ground, but gets the job done and allows for off leash time."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Jan's RV Park offers full connections. Dawn D. writes: "Nice little park right by the highway. Passport America good for one night. We stopped on our way to the international peace garden."
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary in spacing between sites. "Park is located right off of hwy 2. Great access to International Peace Garden and Geographical Center of North America. The spaces are fairly close and mostly level," reports Mike K. about Jan's RV Park.
WiFi access: Off Main RV Park provides internet connectivity. Jim L. notes: "City water and sewer, 30 and 50 amp electrical, free WiFi. The only place in the area with FULL HOOKUPS."
Highway noise: Proximity to main roads affects some campgrounds. Jeff Y. mentions about Jan's RV Park: "This little park with full utilities was a bargain when traveling through the area, right off Rte 2 and next to a store."
