Jamestown Reservoir offers several RV camping options within driving distance of the water, with additional facilities available in surrounding communities. Campgrounds in this region typically sit at elevations between 1,400-1,500 feet, with the reservoir spanning approximately 2,000 acres. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season for the area.
What to do
Fishing access points: McVille Dam Campground provides shore fishing opportunities directly from the camping area. "I stayed one night and explored the area and town. The campground is nice and well maintained," reports camper Teresa T.
Paddleboarding opportunities: Grahams Island State Park Campground offers ideal conditions for water sports enthusiasts. "Would like to return with the paddle boards when the weather is nicer," notes Chuck S., who visited in early October when crowds were minimal.
Bird watching trails: The primitive camping area at Grahams Island State Park Campground features wooded sites popular with birders. Janet K. describes site #67 as "completely private surrounded by trees that were full of birds," making it an excellent spot for wildlife observation.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Grahams Island maintains exceptional cleanliness standards throughout the park. Scott S. specifically mentions "Great campground and super clean, swimming beach, playground, dog park, fish cleaning station, and shower houses."
Swimming beaches: Stump Lake Park provides water recreation beyond fishing. Teresa T. describes it as "Huge. Lots of regular campers who stay the season but also spots for visiting. It is large, well maintained, lots of activities."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer generously sized sites that provide adequate separation. At Grahams Island State Park, Leah A. notes they were "pleasantly surprised by the large size of our spot. Easy to pick a more private, or communal spot as you prefer."
What you should know
Seasonal water limitations: Water service availability changes throughout the season at several parks. Bruce notes that at Spirit Lake Casino & Resort RV Park, "After November 1 no water at site," requiring campers to plan accordingly for late-season visits.
Reservation systems vary: Some smaller campgrounds have straightforward booking processes. For Tolna Dam, Mark & Kelly G. report it's a "Nice Little Campground... Electric was available. Vault toilets. On the water. Small park-like. Maybe 4-5 sites."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more natural settings, several parks offer non-electric sites. Kathleen S. shared about Grahams Island: "Stayed two nights at a primitive camp site very nice place. This campground is very clean."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. Ason S. reports that at Grahams Island, "Playgrounds were nice & not busy. Nice trails," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Swimming options: Grahams Island State Park Campground offers designated swimming areas that appeal to families. Clean Slate D. notes there's "a ramp there" for boating access, along with "water and electricity" at the Ziebach campground section.
Event facilities: Some parks include community spaces useful for larger gatherings. Leah A. mentions that Grahams Island has "the event center is really nice with kitchen, bathrooms, outdoor seating, and playground."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RV sites at Jan's RV Park may require equipment for proper positioning. Thomas R. notes "our site #6 needed leveling blocks but got pretty flat," confirming that with minimal effort, suitable leveling can be achieved.
Highway proximity: For travelers seeking convenient overnight stops along major routes, Jan's RV Park offers easy highway access. Dawn D. describes it as a "Nice little park right by the highway. Passport America good for one night. We stopped on our way to the international peace garden."
Hookup configurations: Many RV campgrounds near Jamestown Reservoir provide full-service connections. Sheila T. reports about Jan's RV Park: "This was a good site for us as we passed through on a long road trip. The site was level and hookups were well-positioned."
