The camping spots near Kensal, North Dakota are primarily situated within a 20-mile radius of this small town in Foster County. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season (June-August), while spring and fall can bring temperature swings of 30+ degrees within a single day. Most campgrounds around Kensal close during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing and snowfall accumulation can block access roads.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Jamestown Reservoir and Pipestem Lake offer walleye, northern pike, and perch fishing. At James River Bay Area Camping, visitors can enjoy shoreline fishing. One camper noted, "Scenic lil boat launch not far from Jamestown... The lake is beautiful. Got to watch storm pass thru while cows grazed on rolling hills across the water."
Trail exploration: The trail system at Parkhurst Campground includes the 5.5-mile North Ridge Trail and 8-mile Pipestem Creek Trail, designed for mountain biking and hiking. A reviewer mentioned, "There are miles and miles of trails which is very cool and nice views of the water and overall, well maintained."
Local attractions: Visit the World's Largest Buffalo statue in Jamestown, 20 miles from Kensal. According to a camper at Jamestown Campground, "Jamestown speedway dirt track has races every Saturday evening during the summer and we were able to catch the season opener in May. The world's largest buffalo is also nearby."
What campers like
Well-maintained grounds: Many campgrounds in the Kensal area receive praise for their upkeep. At Lakeside Campground, a visitor shared, "Quiet (other than distant freeway noise) well maintained, accommodating camp host. I imagine on weekend this place might be crowded with 50+ sites somewhat close together so might avoid... but was great on a Wed."
Privacy and space: Some camping areas offer more privacy than others. One camper at Jamestown Campground wrote, "It was right off the highway, but the noise wasn't too bad... Our site was easy to get into and there was a bit of space in between the sites. The sites are positioned such that your door opens to your neighbor's door, but this is better than having your picnic table next to your neighbor's sewer hose."
Natural settings: Campsites around Kensal feature a mix of prairie and wooded areas. A visitor to Pelican Point Landing commented, "Nice place with very friendly staff. Don't forget the great eats from the Dak," while noting the simple but pleasant surroundings.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The North Dakota prairie can experience extreme weather patterns. Strong winds are common, especially at more exposed campgrounds. A Pelican Point Landing visitor warned, "It's deep in farm country so doesn't feel as much like a park, small sites."
Reservation policies: Most campgrounds with hookups require reservations, especially for summer weekends. Primitive sites like those at James River Bay Area Camping operate differently: "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."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. A Jamestown Campground visitor reported, "It was raining when we arrived so access road muddy! They add added some sand on areas and we had 4 wheel drive!" Another noted, "This is nice spot good price flat spots has a playground lots of grass they have sports equipment you can barrow the dirt road can be pretty dusty but not bad if you go slow."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds near Kensal offer playground facilities. At Jamestown Campground, one family mentioned, "Maticulatly cared for campground, safe, friendly, a nice place to rest, small but pretty walking trail that the kids can bike. Mosquitoes in August."
Swimming options: Water access for swimming varies by location. At Binford Park Campground, located about 15 miles northeast of Kensal, families can find affordable accommodations: "3 little cabins which were reasonably priced, a handful of spots with hookups and a bathroom but no shower."
Insect protection: Mosquitoes can be prevalent during summer months, especially near water sources. Pack insect repellent and consider camping during May-June or September when insect populations are typically lower.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are common, but full-hookup sites are limited. A visitor to Lakeside Campground shared, "Has water and electrical hook ups," while not mentioning sewer connections at their site.
Site leveling: Terrain at some campgrounds requires leveling equipment. One RVer at Pelican Point Landing stated, "Sayed in a 36 ft 5th wheel and had no issues getting it setup, although the ground was far from level, we managed."
Dump station access: Most campgrounds with RV sites provide dump stations, though not all offer full sewer hookups. When staying at campgrounds without sewer connections, plan for tank capacity limitations.
