Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Kensal, ND is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Kensal is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Kensal and user-submitted reviews.
$10 / night
The Mel Rieman Campground and Recreation Area is a 70-acre facility on the shoreline of Lake Ashtabula in eastern North Dakota. The campground is known for its spectacular sunset views. It is close to the Baldhill Dam and within walking distance of the Mel Rieman day-use area, where visitors can swim, fish and picnic. Lake Ashtabula was created by the construction of the Baldhill Dam on the Sheyenne River in 1944, and is situated in one of the most scenic river valleys in the region. Visitors can choose from a wide range of recreation opportunities year-round, including ice fishing and cross-country skiing during winter months.
There is no shortage of recreation opportunities and outdoor fun in and around the lake. The day-use area is adjacent to the campground and has a visitor center, playgrounds, picnic facilities, concessions, fishing spots and a boat ramp. The name "Ashtabula" is a Native American word meaning "Fish River," which suits the lake's fish population; popular species include walleye, northern pike, white bass, yellow perch and black bullhead. With seven boat ramps, two accessible fishing piers and four automated fish cleaning stations, the lake is very convenient for anglers. Nearly 3,000 acres of land around the lake is managed as wildlife habitat by the Corps of Engineers and open to the public for wildlife viewing, birding, hiking and hunting. Hunters and anglers should contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department for seasons, restrictions and licenses; fishing licenses and bait may be purchased from concessionaires around the lake. Campers can also reach the 63-mile Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway and access nearly 35 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail within a short drive.
There is no shortage of recreation opportunities and outdoor fun in and around the lake. The day-use area is adjacent to the campground and has a visitor center, playgrounds, picnic facilities, concessions, fishing spots and a boat ramp. The name "Ashtabula" is a Native American word meaning "Fish River," which suits the lake's fish population; popular species include walleye, northern pike, white bass, yellow perch and black bullhead. With seven boat ramps, two accessible fishing piers and four automated fish cleaning stations, the lake is very convenient for anglers. Nearly 3,000 acres of land around the lake is managed as wildlife habitat by the Corps of Engineers and open to the public for wildlife viewing, birding, hiking and hunting. Hunters and anglers should contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department for seasons, restrictions and licenses; fishing licenses and bait may be purchased from concessionaires around the lake. Campers can also reach the 63-mile Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway and access nearly 35 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail within a short drive.
The lake area lies amidst the 'prairie potholes' region of glacially-carved lakes in North Dakota. Bountiful migratory water birds flock to Lake Ashtabula, including the unique white pelican, which can be seen in large quantities during summer. The region also provides habitat for white-tailed deer, sharptail grouse, wild turkey and gray partridge.
$40 / night
Good campsite, located in a huge field set pretty far off the river. It says there's room for 10 tents but really you could host a festival there. There's a couple picnic tables and fire pits and one trash can. There is no bathroom next to the tent sites. There is a pit toilet close by. When you reach the "Camp Rules" sign turn right for the camping and left for the pit toilet.
Stopped here on our way through North Dakota, perfect site with flushable bathrooms, good water and a beautiful sunrise.
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a place a little off the beaten track, with serene landscapes and feelings of privacy, with comforts of a few fellow campers, clean toilets and showers, and a wonderful local general store as you enter the campgrounds.
Scenic lil boat launch not far from Jamestown. A few fire rings dispersed around the area. There was a water pump that looked to be broken. Vault toilet and a storage shed housing the picnic tables if you wanted to use one. The lake is beautiful. Got to watch storm pass thru while cows grazed on rolling hills across the water. Lovely.
Walk along the road at night for a nice spooky stroll. Obviously built for boating. Eldest daughter says it was “cute”.
This a beautiful, small, and family friendly campgrounds. Most of the campsites have a beautiful view of the lake. The access roads are asphalt. Security comes around regularly. We had a wonderful experience.
Do note that cel and wifi access is bad at best. There is a store close by that has access. The camp sites are small and close together. Besides that it is truly a beautiful site.
This campground is not far from I-94. The campground is clean, quiet, and beautiful. We enjoyed the views of the lake and the rolling hill, the immaculate star gazing, and peacefulness of this camp ground.
There is a resort nearby with ice cream, firewood, and souvenirs.
Coming from the East, we made the mistake of taking highway 17, which happens to be a dirt road. If you take highway 19 it’s completely paved.
Camping near Kensal, North Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and friendly campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to enjoy outdoor activities, there are options that cater to all kinds of campers.
Camping near Kensal, North Dakota, has something for everyone. With clean facilities, friendly staff, and plenty of activities, it's a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Kensal, ND?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Kensal, ND is James River Bay Area Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
