Grahams Island State Park spans 1,122 acres on the shores of Devils Lake, offering varied camping options in North Dakota's glacial lakes region. This state park maintains specific designated camping zones for glamping accommodations near Harvey, with several primitive sites requiring advance registration through the North Dakota Parks reservation system. Water levels at Devils Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access and creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Grahams Island State Park provides exceptional walleye, northern pike, and perch fishing on Devils Lake. The park maintains a concrete boat ramp and fish cleaning station for anglers. "Nice flat tenting area with plenty of shade and plenty of views. It was a blast there," notes a visitor at Grahams Island State Park.
Winter recreation: During colder months, the area offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when conditions permit. "We stated at Graham's Island the first part of October. No crowds to speak of. Nice trails friendly staff. Would like to return with the paddle boards when the weather is nicer," shares another camper about seasonal activities.
Explore forest diversity: The Denbigh Experimental Forest features numerous tree species planted for research purposes. "Beautifully maintained trails and a small network of unpaved roads. I took a delightful bike ride with my dogs and we really enjoyed this location," reports a visitor who appreciated the forest's unique landscape.
What campers like
Private primitive sites: Secluded camping spots provide tranquility away from more developed areas. "We 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," describes a camper at Grahams Island State Park.
Clean facilities: The maintained bathhouses and amenities receive consistent positive feedback. "Great campground and super clean, swimming beach, playground, dog park, fish cleaning station, and shower houses," mentions a visitor appreciating the sanitation standards.
Lake views: The elevated terrain at Lake Mitchell Campground provides exceptional stargazing opportunities and panoramic landscapes. "They have 9 tent spots and it's 360 view from the mountain. Priceless and can see the Milky Way," shares an enthusiastic camper about this alternative glamping location near Harvey, North Dakota.
What you should know
Weather warnings: Park staff monitor conditions and alert campers to approaching storms. "Thanks to the wardens for letting us know about storms in our area and where we go for shelter. Really enjoyed our stay," notes a camper about the safety protocols at Grahams Island.
Seasonal considerations: Tick activity peaks during warmer months in forested areas. A Denbigh Experimental Forest visitor cautions: "If ticks bother you (in this amount of tips would bother anyone) I do not recommend coming to this spot. I am not sure when tick season ends but if you are going to go go in the ticks are dead."
Water level fluctuations: Devils Lake experiences significant water level changes that affect shoreline accessibility. "This park is on an island in the middle of a beautiful huge lake. You just drive out over a bridge, very pretty... There can be flooding," mentions a visitor describing the variable conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple play areas provide recreation options for children. "Playgrounds were nice & not busy. Nice trails," reports a family staying at Grahams Island State Park, noting the family-friendly amenities.
Swimming beach: Designated swimming areas offer safer water recreation for families with children. "Awesome views, swimming beach, fishing, hot showers and dog park," summarizes a camper highlighting the combination of features available.
Park activities: Rangers occasionally provide educational materials for children. "Friendly hosts - gave the kids tattoos & stickers. Swim beach was great. Lots of great skipping rocks!" shares a family about their experience with the engaging staff.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Different campground loops offer varying levels of services and shade coverage. "We stayed in the Ziebach campground. It has trees, water and electricity. There is another campground with full h/u but no shade and costs more," explains a camper at Grahams Island State Park, highlighting the tradeoffs between amenities and natural surroundings.
Site specifications: Some RV spots at Lake Mitchell lack reliable electrical service despite being designated with hookups. "If you're looking for electric-they have it! Downside, it may not work.... it didn't for us," warns a camper about potential infrastructure limitations.
Access challenges: Certain dispersed camping areas near Harvey present difficulties for larger vehicles. "Overgrown with dense two foot tall grass, could not find a place to park or even turn my little car around," cautions a visitor about seasonal access conditions.
