Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground sits in the scenic Turtle Mountains of North Dakota at 2,050 feet elevation, creating a forested island rising from the surrounding plains. The region features a distinctive ecosystem of aspen woodlands and numerous small lakes formed by glacial activity. Winter temperatures can drop below -30°F, while summer camping season brings moderate 70-80°F days with cool evenings requiring extra layers.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Metigoshe: Visitors can fish, swim, or rent kayaks and canoes to explore the interconnected lakes. "A great place for getting in or on the water. Swimming next to campsites, boat launch site even closer. Fishing docks are plentiful," notes Nikki M. about Lake Metigoshe State Park.
Hiking through wooded trails: The park offers several interpretive trails through diverse terrain. "I walked the full Old Oak interpretive trail and the pamphlet that you pick up on the way in to camp was nice to have. There is poison ivy here. There was some on my campsite and some on the interpretive trail," warns Jennie S. about Lake Metigoshe.
Geocaching opportunities: Search for hidden treasures throughout the park using GPS coordinates. "Went fishing, swimming, explored the hiking and bike trails and did some geocaching. The International Peace Garden is about a half hour drive and that was beautiful as well," shares J S. about their Lake Metigoshe experience.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Natural vegetation creates secluded camping spaces. "Loved this campground so much! 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. about International Peace Garden.
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and showers receive consistent positive feedback. "This State Park is in North Dakota near the Canadian border. Depending on which campground you choose you will either have a vault toilet or a more convenient bathroom with toilets & showers! Staff was very nice and accommodating," explains Brandi M. about Lake Metigoshe.
Spacious camping areas: Sites accommodate multiple tents or larger setups. "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! The sites are huge," notes Elizabeth S. about the International Peace Garden.
What you should know
Entry costs: Be prepared for entrance fees in addition to camping costs. "Definitely expensive. 25 to get in and then 25 to camp but full hook ups and nice spots. Quiet with few other campers and remember to bring ID to get back into the US," advises Teresa T. about International Peace Garden.
Tent platform availability: The International Peace Garden offers elevated wooden platforms for tent camping, creating a unique yurt-like camping experience without the full structure. These platforms keep tents dry and off the ground.
Wildlife concerns: Watch for poison ivy along trails and in some campsites, particularly during summer months. Wear long pants when hiking off established paths.
Border crossing requirements: Bring proper identification if planning to cross between the US and Canadian sides of the International Peace Garden. Passports or enhanced driver's licenses are recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children will enjoy dedicated play areas near camping loops. "Great place to stay!! Campsites were nice & taken care of! Some sites were elevated or lowered with a few stairs; kinda cool! Swim beach was a bit of a walk, but totally worth it!! Great sandy beach & nice water!! Activities set up for families/kids each weekend. Nice playground between loops too," recommends Ason S. about Lake Metigoshe State Park.
Educational opportunities: Visit the interpretive center for kid-friendly learning. "I stayed in the cabins here and they were very nice! All the staff I've met were happy and energetic. Canoe or kayaking in the area is a must and keep your eye out for the wildlife around you in the water. The interpretive learning center is really neat also," shares Rudy W..
Bring bikes: The flat terrain and interconnected pathways make cycling an ideal family activity. Several campers note wishing they had brought bicycles to more easily explore the extensive grounds.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad advantages: Level sites make setup straightforward. "This is a very nice place with clean bathrooms. The spaces are a good size, some with water and power," notes Mayra V. about International Peace Garden.
Generator policies: Some campgrounds restrict generator usage. "We were in a tent campground and a camper came and parked and ran a generator for hours," reports Jackie R. about Lake Metigoshe, indicating inconsistent enforcement of noise regulations.
Sanitary facilities: Full hookup sites include sewer connections, but dump stations are available for those in partial hookup areas. Water quality and pressure are consistently rated highly by visitors staying in RVs.
