Best Tent Camping near Leonard, ND
The rural landscape surrounding Leonard, North Dakota offers several tent camping options within a reasonable driving distance. Arthur Park, located about 30 miles north in the town of Arthur, provides dedicated tent camping areas within a well-maintained city park setting. Tent campers seeking water-based experiences can explore Brushvale Bridge Primitive Canoe Campsite across the Minnesota border, accessible only by boat and offering a true primitive camping experience along the river. Additional tent camping opportunities can be found at Wyndemere Rock Garden County Park and Mooreton City Park, both within 40 miles of Leonard.
Most tent sites in the region feature basic amenities with varying levels of facilities. Arthur Park provides grassy tent sites with access to bathrooms, drinking water, and picnic tables, though campers should note that reservations must be made through the city office on weekdays. Sites at Brushvale Bridge are completely primitive with no facilities, requiring campers to pack in all supplies including water and pack out all waste. The camping season generally runs from April through October, with most sites closing during North Dakota's harsh winter months. Fire restrictions may apply during dry periods, so checking current conditions before arrival is essential.
Campers who have stayed at Arthur Park note its unique setting. "This campground is not so much a campground as it is a city park which has a section where tenting is allowed," reports one visitor who appreciated the "sheltered grassy spot to set up tents" and proximity to the North Cass Pass Bike Trail. The park's community orchard featuring various fruits adds an unexpected element to the tent camping experience. For those seeking water-based primitive tent camping, reviewers suggest Brushvale Bridge offers good opportunities for canoe campers, though the site is basic with no amenities beyond a place to pitch a tent. Walk-in tent sites throughout the region provide a more secluded experience than roadside camping areas, with minimal development and greater privacy.