Parkhurst Campground serves equestrians and hikers with over 13 miles of maintained trails spreading across 140 acres of North Dakota prairie terrain. Located 5 miles from Jamestown, the campground operates on a $10 per night honor system. Visitors select available sites upon arrival with no advance reservations required. The open layout accommodates both tent and RV camping with basic amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and a dump station.
What to do
Trail exploration by foot: The trail system at Parkhurst Campground features the 5.5-mile North Ridge Trail and 8-mile Pipestem Creek Trail with varied terrain. "Very pretty prairie hiking as well as lush, wooded tracts. There's easy access to these trails from the campgrounds and they are also very well maintained by the county," notes Jo Outdoors from Parkhurst Campground.
Canoeing and kayaking: Fort Ransom State Park offers water recreation along the Sheyenne River. "We really wished we had rented a canoe or kayak (from the park) but it was a holiday weekend so they were all gone by the time we sauntered out of the tent near noon," shares Lynn G. Rentals are available directly through the park but require early booking during peak times.
Wildlife viewing: Spring and fall seasons provide optimal wildlife spotting opportunities. "We saw an incredible amount of wildlife in our one day stay," reports Teresa T. from Fort Ransom State Park Campground. The river valleys and varied ecosystems create natural habitat corridors for local wildlife.
What campers like
Quiet, spacious sites: The primitive camping area at Fort Ransom offers more seclusion than standard campgrounds. "The 'primitive' campground which is for tents only, either in drive in tent campsites, or at walk-in tent sites that are very spacious and right on the river! Very nice," explains Janet R.
Riverfront access: Many visitors appreciate the cooling effect of water access during summer months. "We were able to get down to the river from our primitive site and cool off. While the bank itself was quite steep and muddy the water felt amazing," says Brittany about her stay at the park.
Multi-season flexibility: Fort Ransom remains open year-round with activities varying by season. "In winter there is great cross country skiing and snowshoeing and summer of course has camping, canoeing, hiking, and nature watching," shares a regular visitor. This makes it one of the few horse campgrounds near Jamestown, North Dakota with four-season accessibility.
What you should know
Honor system payment: Parkhurst Campground operates on a self-service basis. "There is a $10/night fee on an honor system, where upon arrival you select your campsite and then fill out a slip and submit your payment at the campground entrance," explains Jo Outdoors. No change is provided, so bringing exact payment is recommended.
Limited water access: While camping at Parkhurst, prepare for limited water amenities. "This is a nice enough campground with pretty views of the lake. It really is dry though with no water and pit toilets," notes Teresa T. from Parkhurst Campground. Campers should bring sufficient water supplies.
Seasonal events: Be aware that public events may impact campground capacity and privacy. "Besides some porta potties being set up on the side of the campground there was no indication of this event happening until the buses started rolling in," reports Renee H. regarding a cross country meet at Parkhurst. Checking local event calendars before arrival is advised.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Fort Ransom offers historical exhibits and educational programs suitable for children. "Very green park with a lot of history, including a preserved farm about early white settlers... the camp staff were especially great with lots of stories to entertain the preschooler and grandma!" shares Lynn G.
Special events for children: The park hosts family-oriented themed weekends. "Halloween in June and Christmas in July is a must," recommends Rudy W. from Fort Ransom State Park Campground. These events provide structured activities beyond typical outdoor recreation.
Visitor center amenities: The park visitor center provides conveniences for families. "Kids enjoyed the ice cream and refreshments for sale at the gift shop," notes Brittany. Wi-Fi access is also available at the visitor center when connectivity is needed.
Tips from RVers
Wind exposure considerations: The topography affects wind exposure differently across campgrounds. "Stayed at a site in the open field near to the road (last site available) only down side was that you got to feel the ND winds (10-30mph+) all the time," cautions Dan C. RVers should select sites with natural windbreaks when possible.
Generator restrictions: Be aware of noise regulations in certain camping sections. "The 'primitive' tent area has quiet rules including no use of generators, so we like that," explains Janet R. Equestrian campers visiting horse campgrounds near Jamestown should check specific area rules regarding power generation.
Firewood delivery: Fort Ransom offers convenient firewood service. "Firewood for sale at the gift shop and they drop it off to your site," notes Brittany. This eliminates the need for RVers to transport firewood or leave their site to purchase it.