Camping spots near Hillsboro, North Dakota offer options within the prairie landscape where elevation changes are minimal, typically ranging between 875-925 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with camping primarily concentrated in the warmer months when temperatures average 70-85°F during summer days. Fall camping near Hillsboro can provide cooler temperatures but requires preparation for potential frost as early as mid-September.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Brewer Lake Recreation Area offers excellent fishing opportunities right from your campsite. "The fishing here is amazing. You can fish right by your camp," notes one visitor who appreciated the accessible shoreline fishing.
Hiking wooded trails: Turtle River State Park provides a forested contrast to the predominantly agricultural surroundings of Hillsboro. "Looking to get away from the flat land of North Dakota? This park is where to be. Lots of great trails with some awesome views," writes one camper who enjoyed the change in terrain.
Explore community orchards: Less than 20 miles from Hillsboro, the Arthur Park campground features an educational community orchard. According to one camper, the park includes "a very unique educational community orchard that features a whole variety of different grapes, berries, apples, and more." The orchard provides an unexpected agricultural learning opportunity during your camping trip.
What campers like
Full hookup availability: Hendrum Community Park receives praise for its affordable full hookup sites. One camper noted, "It is not free it is $15 a night with full hookups! 50amps! My wife and I were so happy to find this place tucked away in the town of Hendrum, MN."
Small-town convenience: Municipal campgrounds in the Hillsboro region provide proximity to local services. A reviewer of Willowood City Campground appreciated its location, mentioning, "It is located adjacent to the Rainbow Rose garden and sculpture park, and opposite the large beautiful Island Park which has myriad recreational opportunities."
River access: Waterfront camping spots near Hillsboro offer scenic settings. At Belmont Park in Buxton, a visitor described it as "a hidden gem for rustic camping in terms of setting and location, deep in the woods and right on a bend on the river. The campsites are well spaced and shaded, and the tenting area is particularly spacious."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer camping in the Hillsboro area can bring mosquitoes, especially after rain. A Belmont Park visitor mentioned, "I can imagine that after times of rain there would be a lot of muddy puddle areas along shore that might be mosquito heaven."
Limited privacy at some sites: Many campgrounds in the region have open layouts. At Buffalo River State Park, campers note the exposure: "The campground was pretty open, but it was a fun place. There is a swimming pond close to the campground and some open area to play lawn games."
Varying facilities: Campground amenities differ significantly between locations. One Arthur Park visitor explained, "There are bathrooms available, and a lovely sheltered grassy spot to set up tents, and a place to grill and get water at the picnic shelter, but in terms of other camping amenities there really aren't any."
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation areas: Campgrounds with playgrounds provide important entertainment for kids. At Hendrum Community Park, a camper mentioned, "Bathrooms are open and there is room for tent campers as well. Playground for the kids."
Consider swimming options: Some campgrounds offer swimming areas that appeal to families. At Buffalo River State Park, one visitor noted, "The swimming area is wonderful! Less chlorine than you'd ever get exposed to in a public pool and picnic table access with lots of area to picnic."
Pack bug protection: Red River State Recreation Area and other sites can have significant mosquito populations. One camper advised, "The campsite was spacious and nicely kept. There was a water filling station and toilets and showers near by. It was great. Tons of mosquitos though make sure you have spray."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: While many local campgrounds accommodate RVs, site characteristics vary. A camper at Hillsboro Campground and RV Park explained, "Loved the full hookup sites. No firepot or staff on-site."
Urban camping options: For RVers wanting town amenities, Red River State Recreation Area offers an urban setting. One visitor commented, "This is the most urban state park campground in MN. It's within East Grand Forks. Not quiet and felt like a town of RVs. Great amenities and coffee nearby, not wild."
Seasonal availability: Most RV facilities in the area operate seasonally. At Turtle River State Park, visitors have multiple site options: "There are numerous sites with water and electricity with central location shower houses. The camp sites are large, level and secluded."
