Hankinson, North Dakota camping areas sit within the Sheyenne National Grassland, part of the larger Dakota Prairie Grasslands system that preserves native prairie ecosystems in the Northern Great Plains. The area features rolling oak savannas and tallgrass prairie at elevations around 1,100 feet. Seasonal weather patterns bring hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 80°F and cold winters where camping continues for hardy visitors.
What to do
Hiking on the North Country Trail: The North Country National Scenic Trail passes directly through several campgrounds in the area, offering miles of hiking through native grassland. According to Teresa T., who stayed at Jorgen's Hollow Campground: "Nice and relatively private spots with lots of hiking nearby. Definitely headed back again."
Stargazing in dark skies: The remote location away from urban centers creates excellent night sky viewing opportunities. Doug W. noted about Hankinson Hills Campground: "It is very quiet and no light pollution. Cell service was actually pretty good."
Birdwatching for prairie species: The Sheyenne Grasslands support diverse bird populations. Dillon M. reported: "Like I said in the title, all quiet, and wonderful looking over the tall grass prairie. Abundant flowers and butterflies. Even a couple prairie chickens."
What campers like
Natural site separation: Campsites offer privacy despite being in established campgrounds. Don C. shared about his experience: "It's pretty well dispersed camping with bushes for the most part separating the sites. The toilets are clean. There's a nice four Mile easy trail that comes out of the campsite area."
Accessibility from Fargo: The horse campgrounds near Hankinson, North Dakota are conveniently located for weekend trips from larger cities. Kurt L. noted about Jorgen's Hollow Campground: "Only 50 miles from Fargo. Place all to myself on a Sunday night. Clean nice toilets and nice camping spots."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive campgrounds, visitors appreciate the upkeep. Andy H. commented: "Nice clean campground and hiking trails are taken care of. The sunsets are beautiful."
What you should know
Biting insects during summer: Prepare for insects, especially during warmer months. Katie L. mentioned in her review of Hankinson Hills: "Well maintained campground, has water and multiple vault toilets. There's a loop for horse camping and a loop for non horse camping... Only downside was the abundance of biting flies and mosquitoes."
Water quality considerations: The water from hand pumps may require filtering. One visitor advised: "You might consider bringing your own water - the water from the pump has particulates in it."
Low occupancy during weekdays: For those seeking solitude, weekday visits often provide nearly empty campgrounds. Don C. shared: "I visited on weekday there were only five campers when I showed up and by the time I left there were zero campers."
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty levels: The trails around equestrian campgrounds near Hankinson are generally flat and manageable for children. Rachel O. mentioned: "Great access to the NCT. Great signage. Well kept. I enjoyed my stay here."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can spot various wildlife, making for educational opportunities. Layne W. reported at Hankinson Hills Campground: "Lots of woodpeckers to see and coyotes calling at dusk. Sheyenne river nearby."
Consider ambient noise: Be aware that natural sounds might be startling to some children. Brendon K. noted: "Only problem: there are cows everywhere. You go through cow pastures to get to the campground and they are just sitting at the fence line mooing."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions for trailers: Access roads are generally suitable for horse trailers and RVs despite being gravel. Nick observed: "3 miles of gravel road to the campground but the road was smooth and in good condition."
Site selection for larger rigs: Some sites accommodate larger rigs better than others. Doug W. advised: "The sites are varied, well kept and some will fit larger rigs. It is typical forest service dry camping."
Camp setup considerations: Claudia H. shared about camping at Hankinson Hills Campground: "There are gorgeous sites well spaced and lots of shade. Trails to bike ride around. No motorized vehicles allowed so it's quiet. Road in was good gravel. Picnic tables, fire rings and pit toilets. $10 / night. Great find."
