Larimore, North Dakota sits at an elevation of about 1,140 feet within the Red River Valley region. This area experiences a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, with camping season typically running from May through early October. Visitors will find a mix of prairie and forested landscapes, creating diverse habitats for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation opportunities around the various camping destinations.
What to do
Golfing and outdoor games: Michigan City Park Campground offers a unique combination of camping and golf. "The Duffers Golf Club next to campground is inexpensive, unique and even has clubs available for free use," notes a visitor. The park also includes horseshoe pits and a playground for family recreation.
Swimming and beach activities: Larimore Dam Recreation Area Campground features a popular swim beach with sandy shores. A visitor reports, "The beach was great - nice sand, grass area, & nice water!" This recreation area serves as a cooling oasis during hot summer days.
Hiking and biking trails: Turtle River State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks. "Lots of great trails with some awesome views," mentions one camper. Another adds, "There are numerous sites with water and electricity with central location shower houses. The camp sites are large, level and secluded. There are lovely wide trails for biking and hiking and a river runs through the park."
Birdwatching: The area serves as an important migratory corridor. Fall visitors benefit from prime bird migration viewing opportunities in the wetlands and forested areas. A camper notes that Larimore area is "not just an oasis in the prairie for people, but also a great habitat island for birdwatching with lots of spots within the park and in adjacent wetlands and refuges."
What campers like
Natural diversity: The contrast between prairie and wooded areas creates unique camping experiences. A Turtle River State Park visitor describes it as "an oasis in the prairie, a forested enclave" noting that "the interpretive staff at the visitors center are enthusiastic, the river is good for fishing, and there are a lot of trails."
Small-town hospitality: Michigan City Park Campground receives praise for local friendliness. "The residents of Michigan are incredibly welcoming," writes one camper. Another adds, "Very friendly town. There is a donation box on one of the electrical hook up boxes."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. One visitor to Michigan City Park noted it was a "Beautiful campground with 4 30 amp electric hookups. Water available at the club house. Sites are grass mostly level. Very well maintained."
Fishing opportunities: Several water bodies near Larimore offer fishing. McVille Dam Campground provides access to fishing spots, and a visitor noted the area is "nice and well maintained" with a "cute" nearby town to explore.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most RV sites near Larimore, North Dakota close completely during winter. Grand Forks FamCamp specifically operates from "May 1 to October 1" with visitors noting it offers "50 amp, water and sewer" connections and is "Quiet, easy access."
Reservation policies: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. Michigan City Park Campground doesn't take reservations but rarely fills completely, with one camper noting it "was the busiest it has ever been with 9 campers, 2 tents, 2 camper vans, 4 motor homes or buses and our travel trailer."
Long-term camping: Several campgrounds host seasonal residents who stay all summer. Hillsboro Campground charges "$40 per night" according to a recent visitor, making it more suitable for short stays than seasonal camping.
Limited privacy: Many campgrounds feature open layouts with minimal separation between sites. A camper observes that Larimore Dam Recreation Area sites "have very little privacy" and recommends visiting "during the quieter off season for that reason."
Tips for camping with families
Special events: Turtle River State Park hosts seasonal activities throughout summer. A visitor mentioned, "friendly staff and super programs for the family by the naturalist. Our family loves the place!" Another noted a special "Halloween in July" weekend that attracted many families.
Primitive camping options: Several sites offer more secluded experiences away from RVs. One camper describes their Turtle River experience: "My girls and I had a great day and night at TRSP. Tons of trails for biking and hiking. Some of the biking was too hilly for my 7 year old though. Our campsite was #88 which was a great spot. Nice and secluded along the river."
Winter recreation: For families visiting outside summer months, winter activities are available. Turtle River State Park becomes "a hotspot for skiing and snowshoeing" according to one reviewer who planned to return for winter recreation rather than summer camping.
Budget-friendly options: Michigan City Park Campground operates on a donation basis rather than fixed fees. A visitor explains: "No fee but accepts donations. Power at site. Water and toilets nearby." Another adds that "There are four sites that have electric and several sites for tent camping or dry camping."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds near Larimore offer complete RV connections. McVille Dam Campground provides full hookup sites approximately 40 miles from Larimore. A visitor confirms, "Dump station... Quite a few sites" are available.
Site leveling: Most RV sites in the area require minimal leveling. Turtle River State Park offers "nice flat pull-through campgrounds" according to visitors, while Michigan City Park features "Level grassy area" sites.
Big rig access: Larger RVs should check advance campground specifications. Hillsboro Campground can accommodate larger vehicles but one camper noted "Nobody here. Anvelops only. $40 per night. Truck stop in vicinity, and the smell from diesel fuel ⛽️ is horrible!"
Electrical service details: Amperage varies between campgrounds. Michigan City Park provides "4 30 amp electric hookups" while several other RV sites near Larimore, North Dakota offer 50-amp service for larger power requirements.
