Best Dispersed Camping near Leonard, ND

Okay, so we went in april and it was snowy and muddy. Couldn’t park in the campground itself out of fear we would get stuck. You’re driving on crazy dirt roads to get out there. The bathroom was locked. With all that being said, it was really pretty and it’s surrounded by lakes. Great sunsets and you could hear wild life from all angles. Probably great during the summer but there’s only Like 4-5 spots so first come first serve for sure.

Oldest son and I hiked into the east side of the Sheyenne Grasslands on the NCT. We had parked at the Ekre trailhead, deciding to hike past the Ekre campsite. We set up our tent as soon as we got into the boundaries as a thunder and lightening storm began. The next morning we hiked the 3 miles into Jorgens Hallow, the actual campground on the Grassland. There we refilled our water, used the vault toilets and continued on our way on the NCT across the grasslands.

The tall grass prairie here is absolutely beautiful, and a rare place to be able to enjoy. There are two established campgrounds here, but dispersed camping is allowed anywhere on the property (with restrictions). It’s a very different kind of camping than I was used to in forests back east. It’s wide open here and cattle roam the land. It’s a great place to experience all the Great Plains has to offer for the outdoor lover.

Spending the night here was very calming and serene. I parked right next to the lake and watched the ducks. The overnight was very quiet and dark, perfect for sleeping. There are trees surrounding the little campground. It's in the middle of nowhere and totally worth the drive for a good night's sleep.

The sites aren’t very well indicating and so we parked next to a fire ring and picnic table. A van pulled up in front of us with plenty of room left for other neighbors. A sign indicates that camping for more than 10days is not permitted and rigs aren’t to be left unattended for more than 24hours. Two docks for the pups to jump off of and swim. Beautiful clear water was calling my name in the evening.

I went camping in the Grasslands with my family last fall, we enjoyed it so much, we went back for a second time the following weekend. Very peaceful at the minimal campground. We also hiked a trail and saw so many different plants

Returned here just for a hike not to camp this time, we love it so much! Only saw 1 other group on the trail, did 5 miles out to Mirror pond, enjoyed lunch there and did the 5 miles back. Great activity for a sunny but chilly April Sunday!