Camping options near International Peace Garden range between 15-30 minutes from the international border with elevations around 2,000 feet in the Turtle Mountains region. The terrain consists of rolling hills with numerous small lakes and ponds scattered throughout wooded areas. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during day with cooler nights in the 50s.
What to do
Kayaking opportunities: Strawberry Lake Campground provides a peaceful paddling experience with fewer motorized boats. "Small quiet campground. Just what we were looking for. One other camper. Free firewood for registered campers!!! Family of Broad-winged Hawks in campground!" notes Janet K. about Strawberry Lake Campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts several wildlife refuges including School Section Lake Wildlife Refuge where birdwatching opportunities abound during migration seasons. Strawberry Lake also offers wildlife spotting as one reviewer mentioned, "Great place to take family especially if you enjoy fishing and have a boat, Best for small boats like canoes and kayaks."
Horseback riding: Equestrian campers can access 16 miles of trails at Twisted Oaks Equestrian Campground. "Spots are $10 plus $5 per horse. Individual corrals for horses plus hay and water provided. Spots are okay next to trees but not really shaded. 16 miles of trails one which goes to Strawberry Lake Campground. AMAZING trails," reports Erica S.
What campers like
Secluded, private sites: Campers consistently appreciate the privacy at International Peace Garden. "Each site has a concrete pad (some tent sites have wooden platforms) so leveling is super easy! Mature aspen and oak trees make up the majority of the grounds and this makes each site feel super isolated and private," reports carrie H.
Tent platforms: Several tent sites at International Peace Garden feature wooden platforms. Elizabeth S. confirms this benefit: "My husband and I have stayed at this campground twice now and both visits were amazing! We like to choose sites surrounded by trees and this place does not disappoint. Plus, the raised tent platforms are a huge benefit!"
Clean facilities: Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground receives praise for its cleanliness. "Really enjoyed this state park. Lots of wildlife. Full hookups, clean sites and facilities—nicest public showers we have ever seen!" mentions J S. Another camper adds, "Great place to stay!! Campsites were nice & taken care of!"
What you should know
Border crossing requirements: When camping at International Peace Garden, remember proper identification for crossing between US and Canadian sides. "Quiet with few other campers and remember to bring ID to get back into the US," advises Teresa T.
Campsite availability: Smaller recreation areas like Lion Park at Lake Upsilon fill quickly during peak times. "First come first serve and the major weekends it will be full. It's just a simple spot to camp on the small Lake Upsilon," reports Pam H. about Lion Park at Lake Upsilon.
Water quality considerations: At Strawberry Lake, potable water may be limited. One camper advises: "BRING WATER AND $15 cash for over night fee, the water from the taste is not filtered good for cleaning dishes."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lake Metigoshe offers family-friendly swimming areas. "Great sandy beach & nice water!! Activities set up for families/kids each weekend. Nice playground between loops too," shares Ason S.
Interpretive trails: Pelican Sandy Recreation Area provides educational hiking opportunities. "Very well maintained site. Rustic and quiet. I was there over memorial day weekend and there were two campers and no traffic. We did one of the trails and there were more," notes Teresa T.
Equipment rentals: Several campgrounds offer rental options for water activities. As one visitor to International Peace Garden reports, "Can't wait to go back and rent a kayak and really explore more!" Some areas also provide bike rentals for exploring trails.
Tips from RVers
RV pad features: International Peace Garden provides concrete pads at most sites. Mayra V. confirms: "This is a very nice place with clean bathrooms. The spaces are a good size, some with water and power."
Alternative parking options: Log House Visitors Center provides basic overnight parking for RVs. "Directly behind the Log House Visitors Center and the W'eel Turtle Sculpture are 6 RV pads with electric, water, sewer, and picnic tables. It's just a quiet little place to park on your way to the International Peace Garden," describes Lady Phyre.
Leveling considerations: The region's hilly terrain can affect RV parking. Concrete pads at International Peace Garden help with leveling as one camper noted, "Each site has a concrete pad so leveling is super easy!"
