Homme Lake in North Dakota provides a variety of camping experiences within a prairie landscape that transitions to wooded areas around small river valleys. Seasonal temperatures range from summer averages of 70-85°F to winter lows below freezing, with peak camping season running May through October. Many campgrounds near Homme Lake maintain pet-friendly policies with specific designated areas for dogs to exercise.
What to do
Fishing access points: Kolding Dam offers a small fishing access with a boat ramp. "Beautiful spot but deep grass, no real defined campsite stayed just off road -couple of trains passed," notes David K. from Kolding Dam/Upper Turtle Reservoir.
Golfing opportunities: The campground at Michigan shares space with a small golf club. "The Duffers Golf Club next to campground is inexpensive, unique and even has clubs available for free use! The members were having a tournament and invited us to join them after our round for an amazing steak dinner and conversation," writes Heather H. about Michigan City Park Campground.
Biking trails: The paved pathway system connects campgrounds to nearby towns. "We enjoyed being able to bike the greenway on both sides of the river and downtown is just a couple blocks away," notes Curt P. about Red River State Recreation Area.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained restrooms in the area. "The bathrooms and showers were very nice and clean. We normally stay in the North Loop and have water and electric sites with dump station very accessible when leaving," writes Stacy B. about Icelandic State Park Campground.
Spacious camping areas: Many sites offer room to spread out. "Showers are free and seem to last forever on one push of the button. It's walking distance close to restaurants, a movie theater and other stores/shops. Sites are pretty large and open some more shaded than others," reports David P. from Red River State Recreation Area.
Free camping options: Some local parks provide no-cost options. "No fee but accepts donations. Power at site. Water and toilets nearby. Campsites very near golf course," explains Cat T. about Michigan City Park Campground.
What you should know
Site levelness challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "A lot of the sites aren't level, so be prepared with some leveling blocks. Bathrooms are great and they are constantly cleaning them," warns Trevor A. about Icelandic State Park.
Train noise: Railroad tracks near some campgrounds cause noise disruptions. "And the trains with their horns blaring at 4am was annoying," cautions Scott G. about Red River State Recreation Area.
Industrial odors: Some campgrounds experience occasional industrial smells. "There's a sugar plant just down the road which I wonder if you'll have those smells depending on which way the wind is blowing," mentions Teresa T. about Schumacher Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Homme Lake feature play areas for children. "Nice parks for the kids and ranger activities at night on the weekends. Fun little hikes and a nice beach area. Large campsites with power and water hookups," shares Jeff L. about Icelandic State Park.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds offer beach access. "Beach was nice - sand, sectioned off swim area, & concessions were open," reports Ason S. about Icelandic State Park Campground.
Rental equipment: Some parks provide recreation equipment. "Rental kayaks and paddle boards for great prices and a concession stand as well. Lots of trees perfectly spaced for hammocks and to hang clotheslines!" notes Carrie H. about Icelandic State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Pay attention to utility locations when setting up. "Hook-ups are awful—they are behind your RV spot, shared with the RV behind you; shared power pedestals so only one gets 50amp, whoever gets there first; the 20amp breaker was useless; sewer connections are 90° angle and 1/2" off ground so almost impossible to use sewer elbow and they have sewer flies," warns Bella S. from Leistikow City Park.
Full hookup availability: Some parks offer complete services. "We stayed in the North Loop and have water and electric sites with dump station very accessible when leaving," mentions Stacy B. about Icelandic State Park.
Urban convenience: Campgrounds located near town centers provide easy access to services. "If you did not want to cook, there are 4 restaurants within 3 blocks of your campsite. And a Cabelas within 4 blocks, so if you forget anything, it's close by," notes Scott G. about Red River State Recreation Area.
