Camping options near Harvey, North Dakota include established campgrounds, city parks, and sites at wildlife management areas. The continental climate creates distinct seasonal camping experiences, with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping season from June through August. Most campgrounds operate between May and October, though a few provide year-round access with limited winter amenities.
What to do
Fishing access points: Buffalo Lake Sportsmen Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities with boat launches and docks. According to a visitor, there are "Several formal campsites with tables and fire rings with many dispersed camping sites as well... boat launch and two docks" making it convenient for anglers to access the water.
Hiking trails: Grahams Island State Park Campground features "nice trails" and "really easy hiking trails" according to reviewers. One visitor mentioned, "We stated at Graham's Island the first part of October. No crowds to speak of. Nice trails friendly staff." The park connects to larger trail systems around Devils Lake.
Swimming beaches: Summer visitors can enjoy designated swimming areas at select campgrounds. A camper at Grahams Island noted, "Swim beach was great. Lots of great skipping rocks! Playgrounds were nice & not busy." Another visitor appreciated the "swimming beach, playground, dog park, fish cleaning station, and shower houses."
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: Campers frequently mention appreciating the generous site sizes in the region. At The Haven Campground, a visitor noted, "If you want a beautiful, relaxing, quiet stop then you'll love this place. It's full hookups with a picnic table, fire ring and trash can at each site... lots of open space to play Frisbee with your pups."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high in visitor feedback. One camper at Grahams Island State Park Campground commented on the "Great shower house. Very clean and quiet." Another visitor mentioned, "This campground is very clean. Thanks to the wardens for letting us know about storms in our area and where we go for shelter."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience, several campgrounds offer primitive sites. At Grahams Island, a reviewer stayed "overnight in #67 in the primitive section of the campground. It was completely private surrounded by trees that were full of birds! Primitive area has pit toilets but the shower room and flush toilets were a short walk away."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The North Dakota climate requires preparation for rapid changes. At Grahams Island State Park Campground, staff actively monitor conditions: "Thanks to the wardens for letting us know about storms in our area and where we go for shelter." Campers should pack for variable conditions even in summer.
Reservation needs: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Most established sites can be reserved, while primitive areas often operate first-come, first-served. The Haven Campground offers "four rental RVs if needed" for those without camping equipment.
Limited services: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Fessenden City Park, visitors find "Flat, grassy area right in town near railroad tracks and city park. Electrical hookups, shower, flush toilets," but other amenities are minimal.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bowdon RV Park provides excellent options for families with children. One visitor described it as a "Beautiful park at the edge of town" with amenities within walking distance. Buffalo Lake Sportsmen Campground features a "playground, boat launch and two docks" according to a recent visitor.
Shower availability: When camping with children, clean shower facilities become essential. Grahams Island State Park received praise for its "super clean, swimming beach, playground, dog park, fish cleaning station, and shower houses."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature learning experiences. At Grahams Island, families can take advantage of ranger programs. One visitor noted the park is "Close to the reservation and various Native American cultural areas" providing cultural learning opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Off Main RV Park offers full-service amenities for RVers. According to a visitor, the park provides "City water and sewer, 30 and 50 amp electrical, free WiFi. The only place in the area with FULL HOOKUPS."
Dump station locations: RVers should note that sanitary dump stations are limited in the region. Buffalo Lake Sportsmen Campground and some city parks provide electric hookups but lack dump facilities, while others like Bowdon RV Park offer "sanitary-dump, sewer-hookups, showers, toilets...water-hookups."
Town proximity: RVers appreciate campgrounds with easy access to services. At Off Main RV Park, you'll be "1 block from Beautiful Main Street shopping, Police station, Ambulance, and City Hall. 2 blocks from Theater, Cafes, Bar, Laundromat & Clinic. 3 blocks from two Grocery stores, Hospital, Park, Pool, Miniature Golf, Tennis Court & Horse Shoe Pits."
