Camping spots near Grafton, North Dakota range across the Red River Valley's flat terrain, where summer temperatures often exceed 80°F and winter brings snow and subzero conditions. The area sits at approximately 825 feet above sea level with seasonal waterways that can affect campground access, especially during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall. Several campgrounds maintain year-round operations despite the region's harsh winter climate.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Homme Dam Recreational Area offers access to fishing both in the reservoir and below the dam. "A handful of camp spots in a row and what looked to be a reasonable bathroom... Really nice beach really nice access and fishing down below there's a two and a half mile pave trail in to Park River that you could walk or bike which I thought looked quite nice," notes Teresa T.
Historical exploration: Icelandic State Park Campground features multiple historical buildings and educational exhibits. "There is an amazing museum across the road and many historical buildings on the property. There are hiking trails and a swimming beach," explains Trevor A. The park preserves cultural heritage with interpretive displays about the area's settlement.
Urban recreation: Camping in East Grand Forks provides access to city amenities while maintaining outdoor experiences. "We enjoyed being able to bike the greenway on both sides of the river and downtown is just a couple blocks away," shares Curt P. about Red River State Recreation Area. The extensive paved trail system connects both sides of the river.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain high cleanliness standards. At Turtle River State Park Campground, visitors appreciate "beautiful mature ash trees for a nice shady camp spot... The camp sites are large, level and secluded. There are lovely wide trails for biking and hiking and a river runs through the park," according to Samantha B.
Swimming areas: Lake and river access provides relief during hot summer days. "Beach is great for those hot summer days, they also have an ice cream shop down by the beach," reports Stacy B. about Icelandic State Park. Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with sandy beaches.
Shaded sites: Tree cover offers protection from summer sun and creates more private camping experiences. At Schumacher Park, Teresa T. found "the park is cute. It has lots of trees it has water and electric hookups in a lot of the spots." The shaded environment provides comfort during hot summer days.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Grafton require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. Availability can be limited on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Winter accessibility: Several campgrounds operate year-round but with reduced services. "For the cold weather campers the shower floors are heated! Can't believe I got all this for $500 month plus $35 vehicle fee," explains George K. about Homme Dam Recreational Area.
Campground privacy varies: Site selection impacts privacy levels significantly. At Leistikow City Park, Ashley I. notes it has "FHU, but very tight sites. Clean campground, nice people running it." Some parks offer more secluded options while others feature closely arranged sites.
Additional fees: Many state and regional parks charge entrance fees beyond camping costs. "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)," advises Denis P.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Red River State Recreation Area offers "very large playground and pool over the hill from campground as well as many smaller playgrounds throughout the park," according to Allysa K.
Educational opportunities: Turtle River State Park Campground provides nature programs. "Great state campground. friendly staff and super programs for the family by the naturalist. our family loves the place!" shares Brad K. These ranger-led activities often include wildlife identification and local history.
Beach activities: Sandy beaches with swimming areas provide family recreation. "Playgrounds is great for the kids, bike/hiking trails are very nice. Beach is great for those hot summer days," reports Stacy B. about summer options at Icelandic State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: RV sites at some campgrounds present unique challenges. At Leistikow City Park, Bella S. warns "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; the 20amp breaker was useless; sewer connections are 90° angle and 1/2" off ground."
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional equipment. "Some sites are quite uneven so be sure to have lots leveling equipment if you aren't familiar with your site," advises carrie H. about staying at Icelandic State Park Campground.
Full-service options: For those needing complete hookups, Drayton Campground provides necessary connections. "It's a sizable campground for people who work on the sugar beet in the fall but available the rest of the year. They're all full hookups," notes Teresa T., though the campground lacks some amenities available at state parks.
