Cabin accommodations near Grafton, North Dakota span three main areas: Leistikow City Park within Grafton itself, Icelandic State Park about 20 miles away, and Turtle River State Park approximately 45 miles south. The cabin rental season generally runs May through October, though Icelandic State Park offers year-round availability. North Dakota experiences temperature extremes with summer highs regularly reaching 80°F and winter lows dropping well below freezing, making seasonal considerations important for cabin planning.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Icelandic State Park features a reservoir stocked with fish where cabins provide convenient access. "There is several things available from kayak rental to paddle boarding, there's a nice area for families to swim at and also an area for those who want to fish," notes Rudy W. about recreational options.
Hiking through varied terrain: The forested environment at Turtle River State Park Campground creates a stark contrast to typical North Dakota prairie landscapes. "Looking to get away from the flat land of North Dakota? This park is where to be. Lots of great trails with some awesome views," reports Spencer F. about the hiking opportunities.
Historical exploration: Cabins at Icelandic State Park Campground provide access to cultural exhibits and preserved structures. Janet R. explains, "There is also a native prairie restoration, and historic exhibits about the different cultural groups who made their homes here from prehistoric times to today."
What campers like
Privacy variations: Site selection impacts privacy levels significantly between the cabin areas. "I didn't love our campsite, it was small and not very private. I liked the look of the primitive campsites so I think that's what I would book in the future if I didn't need any power," shares Stephanie S. about Icelandic State Park.
Clean facilities: Cabins with access to well-maintained bathhouses rank highly in visitor satisfaction. Denis P. reports, "We stayed at Icelandic State Park Campground and were very impressed by how well-kept the place is. The restrooms and showers were genuinely clean—no bugs, no bad smells, and consistently hot water."
Natural surroundings: Leistikow City Park cabins offer wooded settings within city limits. Ashley I. notes, "Kinda cool that there's a campground just plopped in the middle of a city park. Nice that it's a quick walk to playground, trails (and the pumpkin patch/corn maze in the fall!)"
What you should know
Seasonal planning required: Cabin reservations become limited during peak periods, especially weekends. "We were there on a weekend, and the place was fully booked—it's clearly a popular destination, so reserve ahead," advises Denis P. about Icelandic State Park.
Cabin condition variations: Quality and maintenance differ between locations. At Turtle River State Park, Samantha B. describes, "Turtle River State park has beautiful mature ash trees for a nice shady camp spot. There are numerous sites with water and electricity with central location shower houses. The camp sites are large, level and secluded."
Fee structures: Additional costs beyond basic cabin rental may apply. Denis P. mentions, "Note: in addition to the campground fee, you also pay a park entrance fee ($7 per vehicle per day, or per entry—not entirely clear)."
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin sites require equipment for leveling. "Some sites are quite uneven so be sure to have lots leveling equipment if you aren't familiar with your site," advises Carrie H.
Tips for camping with families
Program participation: Icelandic State Park offers scheduled activities for children. Stacy B. shares, "They have different kids activities worth the Park Rangers and some theme weekends."
Recreational amenities: Multiple playgrounds enhance the cabin camping experience for families. Jeff L. notes, "Nice parks for the kids and ranger activities at night on the weekends. Fun little hikes and a nice beach area."
Beach access: Families appreciate water recreation options near cabin sites. "Beach was nice - sand, sectioned off swim area, & concessions were open," explains Ason S., highlighting family-friendly water features.
Hammock options: Trees around cabins accommodate hammocks for family relaxation. Carrie H. mentions, "Lots of trees perfectly spaced for hammocks and to hang clotheslines!"
Tips from RVers
Utility challenges: Leistikow Campground cabin visitors should note RV site issues that may affect overall facility quality. Bella S. explains, "Hook-ups are awful—they are behind your RV spot, shared with the RV behind you; shared power pedestals so only one gets 50amp, whoever gets there first."
Spacing considerations: Cabins and RV sites have varying degrees of separation. Trevor A. observes about Icelandic, "Didn't feel packed at all but I could see it getting uncomfortable if totally sold out for a weekend."
Transportation aids: For walk-in cabin sites, equipment for moving gear is essential. Jami M. advises about Turtle River, "I didn't bring a cart though so we had to wall back and forth from the parking lot since it isn't a full drive in site. There weren't any carts available to bring your stuff to your site. I will know better next time."
