Camping areas near Grand Forks, North Dakota center around the Turtle River valley, offering a mix of woodland and prairie landscapes in this otherwise flat region. Campsites in this area sit at elevations between 800-900 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Visitor facilities generally operate from May through October due to the region's harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Turtle River flows through Turtle River State Park Campground where visitors can enjoy trout fishing. "The interpretive staff at the visitors center are enthusiastic, the river is good for fishing, and there are a lot of trails," notes one visitor who found the park especially appealing for outdoor recreation.
Biking and hiking trails: The park features an extensive trail network. "My girls and I had a great day and night at TRSP. Tons of trails for biking and hiking. Some of the biking was too hilly for my 7 year old though," reports a camper who stayed at primitive site 88.
Winter recreation: For campers visiting during colder months, Turtle River State Park offers seasonal activities. "For fans of winter recreation, this is apparently a hotspot for skiing and snowshoeing, and I can see coming back for that," mentions a reviewer who visited during summer but noted the winter options.
What campers like
Swimming beach access: While not all campgrounds offer swimming, Larimore Dam Recreation Area Campground provides a popular beach. "The beach was great - nice sand, grass area, & nice water!" according to a visitor who drove over from nearby Turtle River State Park specifically for swimming.
Forested camping spaces: Many visitors appreciate the woodland setting in this prairie state. "This is a state recreation area that is centered around a large reservoir in a valley, surrounded by a forest that we got to see in all its autumn glory," writes a camper about Larimore Dam Recreation Area.
Quiet environment: Most campers mention the peaceful setting, particularly during off-peak times. "This would be an interesting park for birders, and as some other reviewers have said it is like an oasis in the prairie, a forested enclave," notes a Turtle River State Park visitor who recommended avoiding event weekends when the campground becomes crowded.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most rv sites near Grand Forks, North Dakota operate on limited schedules. Grand Forks FamCamp runs from May 1 to October 1, offering full hookups only during this window. "Quiet, easy access, 50 amp, water and sewer," notes a visitor describing the basic but functional amenities.
Site privacy limitations: Many campgrounds in this region feature open sites with minimal separation. "The campsites have very little privacy and I personally would prefer to be there during the quieter off season for that reason," observes a reviewer about Larimore Dam Recreation Area.
Weekend crowding: Popular campgrounds can become congested during events and summer weekends. "Unfortunately, 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," reports a Turtle River visitor.
