Red River State Recreation Area and Turtle River State Park provide camping options within 25 miles of Grand Forks, North Dakota. The surrounding landscape transitions from flat agricultural plains to the river valleys formed by the Red River and its tributaries, with elevations ranging from 830 to 900 feet. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with humidity levels often exceeding 70%, creating warm camping conditions from June through August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Red Lake River at Old Crossing Treaty Park offers calm waters ideal for kayaking and fishing. "There is a boat launch to put into the Red Lake River, and the water was calm enough you could have had a leisurely paddle in a kayak either direction," notes Torey H.
Historic exploration: Visit the old mill and settler's cabin at Old Mill State Park. One camper shared, "Our favorite part was checking out the Old Mill & settler's cabin," while another mentioned "This was a really cool park to go to, there's a couple historical building for those interested in history and mills."
Winter recreation: For those camping in colder months, Turtle River State Park maintains trails for winter sports. "For fans of winter recreation, this is apparently a hotspot for skiing and snowshoeing, and I can see coming back for that," explains Janet R., highlighting year-round camping possibilities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Red River State Recreation Area offers large sites with full hookups. "The sites are large and the surrounding campground is beautiful parkland," writes Kevin, while another camper notes, "The sites are well prepared, mostly level and pull-through."
Walk-in sites: For tent campers seeking more seclusion, Red River offers walk-in options. Ian Y. explains, "There are a handful of walk-in sites off to the side that looked quite nice. That's definitely the way to go if you'd like to pitch a tent and have a little peace and quiet."
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas not mentioned in nearby dog-friendly campgrounds. "The beach was great - nice sand, grass area, & nice water!" reports Ason S. about Larimore Dam Recreation Area, which provides an alternative to parks without swimming options.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds near Grand Forks experience train disruptions. Scott G. notes at Red River State Recreation Area: "The trains with their horns blaring at 4am was annoying," suggesting light sleepers might want earplugs.
Seasonal events: During peak season, campgrounds can become crowded with special activities. At Turtle River State Park, Janet R. observed: "We were there on an event weekend—'Halloween in July' which meant the campsites were jam packed for the weekend with people eager to be costumed ghouls and do various tricks and treats."
Insect preparation: The wooded river valleys create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. "It was also very buggy which is probably to be expected in a lowland with wetlands," reports one camper about Turtle River, while another advises about Old Mill State Park: "LOTS of mosquitos when we visited - bring bug spray & extra bug spray!"
Tips for camping with families
Dog exercise areas: Beyond the pet-friendly policies at main campgrounds, Holiday City Park provides additional pet accommodations. "I stayed at the campground last fall and I found a really nice spot in the back where the trees also line the river. Privacy was most important as I brought my 2 dogs with me," shares Jennine V.
Playground access: Warren City Park adjacent to Holiday City Park offers multiple recreational options. "But also smack dab next to the beautiful Warren City Park, which is treed and shady, and is complete with nice swimming pool, beautiful playgrounds, well kept picnic shelters, an enjoyable disk golf course," notes Janet R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can enjoy nature observation along prairie trails. At Old Mill State Park, one camper discovered a "Scenic prairie trail with tons of wild life to watch like butterflies, frogs, chipmunks, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. Wild Raspberries grow along the trail as well."
Tips from RVers
Urban camping convenience: Grand Forks FamCamp provides full hookup options in a unique setting. "The FamCamp is located on the Grand Forks AFB, and sits in what used to be family housing. Some of the connections are difficult, and a bit odd. But, the FamCamp offers some shade and full hookups," explains Michael B.
Supply access: The location of several dog friendly campgrounds near Grand Forks provides easy access to necessities. Scott G. notes about Red River State Recreation Area: "If you did not want to cook, there are 4 restaurants within 3 blocks of your campsite. And a Cabelas within 4 blocks, so if you forget anything, it's close by."
Seasonal availability: October brings less crowded conditions. David T. shared: "Got out my phone and started looking, and I said oh, there's a state campground right near here. Right in town in fact... Because it's October, the place is almost empty."
