Campgrounds surrounding Homme Lake in northeastern North Dakota offer diverse options for outdoor recreation across a varied prairie landscape. Seasonal camping extends primarily from May through October, with most facilities closing during harsh winter months. The region features several small reservoir-based parks and recreation areas within rural communities, each with distinct amenities and access to fishing, hiking, and water activities.
What to do
Fishing and water recreation: At Fordville Dam and Rec Area, campers can enjoy fishing in the small reservoir. The facility provides sewer hookups and showers, making it comfortable for extended stays while exploring the water.
Golfing on a budget: The Michigan City Park Campground offers a unique experience with its adjacent golf course. "The Duffers Golf Club next to campground is inexpensive, unique and even has clubs available for free use!" noted one visitor. Another camper added, "Right next to a little golf course that we played. Campground was great. Level spots but golf course left a little to be desired. The greens were Astroturf, which were a little hard."
Nature trails and bird watching: Turtle River State Park Campground provides extensive trail systems through varied terrain. A reviewer mentioned, "This would be an interesting park for birders, and as some other reviewers have said it is like an oasis in the prairie, a forested enclave." Another camper noted, "Tons of trails for biking and hiking. Some of the biking was too hilly for my 7 year old though."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently praise the maintenance of bathrooms and common areas. "The bathrooms and showers were very clean and modern," observed one camper at Icelandic State Park. Another noted, "The restrooms and showers were genuinely clean— no bugs, no bad smells, and consistently hot water."
Spacious sites: McVille Dam Campground receives positive reviews for its layout. "Sites are grass mostly level," mentioned one reviewer. Another noted the campground as "nicely kept" with "quite a few sites."
Small town hospitality: Several campgrounds showcase local community warmth. At Michigan City Park Campground, a camper shared, "The residents of Michigan are incredibly welcoming. The Duffers Golf Club next to campground is inexpensive, unique and even invited us to join them after our round for an amazing steak dinner and conversation."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites. One camper at Icelandic State Park Campground advised, "A lot of the sites aren't level, so be prepared with some leveling blocks." Another noted, "Some sites are very uneven so check closely before reserving."
Limited privacy: Open campground layouts are common. "I didn't love our campsite, it was small and not very private," commented one visitor about Icelandic State Park. Another mentioned, "There's almost zero privacy at most sites, so don't expect any seclusion."
Donation-based facilities: Some smaller campgrounds operate on contribution systems. At Michigan City Park Campground, "No fee but accepts donations. Power at site. Water and toilets nearby," explained one camper. Another added, "You can stay there for free, but I thought it was nice to leave a little cash to help with the electric bill."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Schumacher Park offers family-friendly amenities. "The park is cute. It has lots of trees it has water and electric hookups in a lot of the spots," noted a visitor. The shaded environment provides relief during summer heat.
Ranger activities: Several parks organize educational programs. At Icelandic State Park, one camper shared, "They have different kids activities worth the Park Rangers and some theme weekends." These programs typically run during summer months.
Beach options: Some campgrounds feature swimming areas. "Beach is great for those hot summer days, they also have an ice cream shop down by the beach," explained a visitor to Icelandic State Park. Another camper added, "The beach is large and very nice with soft sand and shady picnic areas."
Tips from RVers
Utility placement issues: Be prepared for challenging hookup configurations. At Leistikow City Park, a camper warned, "Some sites have utilities on the COMPLETE OPPOSITE side of standard RV connections requiring two additional sewer hoses and extra power cord."
Limited big-rig access: Many campgrounds have size restrictions. Turtle River State Park accommodates larger vehicles but requires advance planning. "The camp sites are large, level and secluded," noted one RVer.
Electrical options vary: Check amperage before booking. "Beautiful campground with 4 30 amp electric hookups. Water available at the club house," shared a Michigan City Park visitor, highlighting the need to verify services match your RV requirements.
