Campgrounds near Hillsboro, North Dakota offer varying levels of amenities across the surrounding prairie landscape. The flat terrain in this region sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level, with seasonal temperature fluctuations ranging from below-freezing winters to humid 80°F summer days. Mosquitoes are particularly prevalent from June through August, especially near water features such as the Red River and Buffalo River.
What to do
Fishing access: 0.5 miles from camp: At Buffalo River State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing along the Buffalo River. "Several looping hiking trails start in and around the campground, so you can put together a hike from 15 minutes to two hours. Ours was about an hour, half in the prairie and half along the river," notes one visitor.
Swimming opportunities: Public swimming area: Buffalo River State Park features a natural swimming area that's a welcome relief from chlorinated pools. "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," explains a camper.
Hiking through varied terrain: Multiple trail options: The trails at Turtle River State Park Campground provide a different landscape from the typical North Dakota prairie. According to one visitor, "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."
What campers like
Quiet camping locations: Minimal crowding: At smaller RV parks near Hillsboro, campers appreciate the peace and privacy. "Nice clean city park with RV sites in back, 8 sites, wide sites with fire rings. Well maintained," reports a visitor to Buffalo RV Park.
Natural prairie landscape: Native vegetation: Some parks preserve the local ecosystem. One visitor to Red Trail Vineyard RV Park mentioned, "The grass was freshly cut and there was no litter. The grapes growing next to us was a nice view to wake up to."
Pet-friendly policies: Dedicated areas: Several rv parks in Hillsboro, North Dakota and surrounding communities welcome pets. Willowood City in nearby Mayville offers full hookups in a unique setting next to a rose garden and sculpture park, making it ideal for campers with pets who need regular walking opportunities.
What you should know
Varying cellular coverage: Campground differences: Verizon service is generally reliable throughout the area, but reception quality changes between sites. Parks closer to larger towns typically offer better service.
Limited shade availability: Sun exposure concerns: Many RV parks in this region lack mature trees. According to a camper at Red Trail Vineyard RV Park, "This looks like a new site, made in a flat field near the vineyard. It is basically an open flat field with power/water hook ups in the middle and 14 gravel spots on either side."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity: At Lindenwood Campground in Fargo, ambient sound from nearby infrastructure affects some sites. "Lindenwood is a pretty park but you are right off of 94 and the bridge that crosses the Red River from Minnesota to North Dakota. All we heard were cars and trucks all night long," reports one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple options: Families appreciate campgrounds with recreational facilities. "2 great playgrounds nearby for the kiddos. We were on site B9 and it was spacious," notes a visitor to Lindenwood Campground.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs: Turtle River State Park offers family-oriented nature activities. A visitor shared, "friendly staff and super programs for the family by the naturalist. Our family loves the place!"
Budget-friendly options: Community parks: Small town parks can provide affordable alternatives. Hendrum Community Park offers full hookups at reasonable rates. "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," one camper reported.
Tips from RVers
Reservation systems: Varying procedures: Buffalo RV Park uses an online registration system that doesn't require in-person check-in, making late arrivals easier. "Use city registration site to reserve site, no sign in at front area needed," explains a visitor.
Site selection strategy: Noise mitigation: At Lindenwood Campground, experienced RVers recommend specific areas. "Would recommend staying in the B lot, spots are spaced apart more, facing the river, and are further away from the Interstate," advises one camper.
Weather preparations: Seasonal considerations: Summer humidity brings significant insect activity. A camper at Buffalo River State Park warned, "Tons of mosquitos though make sure you have spray." This applies throughout the Hillsboro region, especially during evening hours from June through August.
