Fort Ransom State Park offers diverse lodging and camping options for visitors looking to experience the Sheyenne River Valley in North Dakota. Located at 5981 Walt Hjelle Parkway, the park sits within a distinctive river valley carved by glacial meltwater. The climate features four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
River paddling access: Visitors to Buffalo River State Park Campground can combine water recreation with hiking. "Several looping hiking trails start in and around the campground, so you can put together a hike from 15 minutes to two hours. Ours was about an hour, half in the prairie and half along the river," notes Patrick M.
Horse camping facilities: For equestrians exploring glamping near Leonard, North Dakota, Mel Rieman Rec provides access to Lake Ashtabula. "This a beautiful, small, and family friendly campgrounds. Most of the campsites have a beautiful view of the lake," reports Leos P., making it suitable for family outings with horses.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark night skies in the region offer excellent viewing conditions. Haylie M. observed at Mel Rieman Rec: "We enjoyed the views of the lake and the rolling hill, the immaculate star gazing, and peacefulness of this camp ground."
What campers like
Meticulously maintained grounds: The Hankinson City Park receives praise for its upkeep. "Quiet park very nicely kept," notes Always C., highlighting the 4 grass spots with 30 amp electric, picnic tables, and trash cans.
Modern shower facilities: Clean facilities matter to visitors enjoying luxury camping near Leonard. At Buffalo River State Park Campground, StaceeQ Q. reports: "If you want the best kept state park I have seen this is the place. Beautiful, quiet, well maintained... Not a scrap of trash, the restrooms clean and well stocked."
Swimming options: Water recreation remains popular during summer months. Brianna V. shares about Buffalo River: "The swimming area is wonderful! Less chlorine than you'd ever get exposed to in a public pool and picnic table access with lots of area to picnic."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The camping season varies significantly across sites. Kidder Recreation Area near Wahpeton has limited facilities but provides basic needs. "There's a short row of camp spots in the sun for campers," notes Teresa T., explaining the layout includes spaces for truck campers as well.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. Leos P. advises about Mel Rieman Rec: "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."
Insect preparedness: Be ready for seasonal insects. Sophia P. warns about Buffalo River State Park: "To s of mosquitos though make sure you have spray."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Red River Valley Fairgrounds in West Fargo offers convenient camping during events. "Level sites with cement pad. Some pull through most back in. Amazingly, very quiet at night," shares kim B., who visited during the Big Iron show.
Playground proximity: When selecting sites with children, consider locations near play areas. At Buffalo River State Park, Stephanie H. mentions, "There is a swimming pond close to the campground and some open area to play lawn games."
Ice cream stops: Many area campgrounds offer treats for kids. Laura G. recommends Mel Rieman Rec: "Highly recommend if you're looking for a place a little off the beaten track, with serene landscapes and feelings of privacy... and a wonderful local general store as you enter the campgrounds."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup information: Check specific site utilities before booking. Jeff H. notes about Fort Ransom State Park Campground: "Great spot for hiking, biking, canoeing and riding your horse. Friendly staff and clean sites. No water or sewer hookups."
Dump station locations: Always C. advises about Hankinson City Park: "Dump station at the pay box but no water. Found a business that let us fill our tanks," highlighting the need to plan water fill-ups separately.
Road access considerations: Some GPS directions may lead to unpaved roads. Haylie M. cautions about accessing Mel Rieman: "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."
