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Best Campgrounds near McLeod, ND

117 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the Sheyenne National Grassland near McLeod, North Dakota. This public land area provides multiple options for self-contained camping with minimal facilities. Campground choices in the region include Jorgen's Hollow Campground, which offers dedicated tent and RV sites with picnic tables and fire rings, and smaller established sites like Dead Colt Creek Recreation Area. The grasslands feature oak groves and prairie landscapes where both drive-in and walk-in camping access is available, creating diverse options for overnight stays in this unique ecosystem.

Road conditions vary throughout the grasslands, with some areas requiring vehicles with decent ground clearance. "My first and not going to be the last campout here. Beautiful sites, trails, very friendly and knowledgeable ranger. Took our 40' through the 1212 trail and was quite concerned I had gotten a little bold with following an unknown gps destination," noted one visitor about navigating the grassland roads. Most dispersed camping areas follow pack-in, pack-out principles with limited or no trash facilities. The camping season typically runs from spring through fall, with some campgrounds like Dead Colt Creek operating from May 1 to September 30. Water access can be limited in dispersed areas, though developed campgrounds like Jorgen's Hollow provide hand pump wells for drinking water.

The North Country Trail passes through the region, creating hiking opportunities directly from several campgrounds. Campers frequently mention the quiet atmosphere and stargazing as highlights of their stays. One camper described the grasslands as "a rare place to be able to enjoy" with "wide open" spaces where "cattle roam the land." Wildlife observations commonly include coyotes, woodpeckers, and prairie chickens. The area offers a mix of sun-exposed and partially shaded sites, with oak groves providing some cover. Many campsites have fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. Several campgrounds feature vault toilets, while others like Sandager Park and Milnor City Park provide electric hookups and water connections for RVs, offering a range of amenity levels throughout the region.

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Best Camping Sites Near McLeod, North Dakota (42)

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Recent Camping Photos near McLeod, ND

7 Photos of 42 McLeod Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near McLeod, ND

117 Reviews of 42 McLeod Campgrounds

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Buffalo RV Park

    Clean, convenient, some mosquitoes

    Spacious, easy access, level sites with convenient hookups and garbage can at each site. Open landscape, but good space between sites. Price now $35 not $25. Good number of mosquitoes requires bug spray, and keeping RV buttoned up, or stay inside.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Sica Hollow State Park Campground

    I think this area is surprising

    This is a horse campground with very basic services. Trash, pit toilets, corals but there are well maintained trails that go throughout and streams and small waterfalls. Some of the most interesting hiking on this end of the state. Only 11 or so spots and very little shade and it has been surprisingly busy. I will do as much as I can on the trail system.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Forman City Park and Campground

    Small but convenient

    I wanted to come and see the historical museum and lucked into finding this. 3 spots with electric and bathrooms. It is right near the road but otherwise private. No one here but I assume during the county fair it is fully occupied.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Wyndemere Rock Garden County Park

    I don't think this is open

    When you suggest an edit, it doesn't leave any place to explain so figured I would do A. Review to provide some information. There are technically 2 campgrounds in windmere. The GPS Coordinates for the rock garden are the other campground, but neither seem to actually be at least R. V camping. I'll put up some pictures to help explain, but I wouldn't stay in either place. Where the GPS Coordinates are is across from the school which is open. And it's basically the football field and I didn't see any formalized camping there in The Rock garden. There's no way to camp in that. There's another park, a blockdown where I suppose you could camp. But there's no entrance or anything for an R. V. So I don't think either. Are actually open.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Barney Campground

    Quiet spot for a night

    This really is a spot for an evening unless you know someone in town. I was given the first night free and only staying one night, ok. Parked behind the manager who is very nice. Wouldn't have found it except from the sign on the road.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Brushvale Bridge Primitive Canoe Campsite

    Just a moderately flat spot

    This campground is really for the folks on the Red River. There is virtually nothing here. Accept some flat ground. Also, the mark is on the wrong side. This is on the West and North side of the road, not the South. And east. No spots, no services. Just a place to park and in between two fairly busy roads.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Aber Park Campground

    Pretty park near State Historic Site

    I think you can stay for free and it seems to be connected to Harvest Hosts. I tried calling the number and it referred me to a different number so just figured someone would come at some point. The park is nice. Pit toilets, water and a playground. There is a state Historic site across the road and the North Country Trail comes right through which is what brought us to town.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    NCT Colfax Campground

    Simple campsite on the NCT

    This is a very simple campsite with the picnic table. A bitch, a fire ring and a toilet. It is mostly for people hiking. The north country trail but guessing anybody that wanted to walk in and use it could.

  • Beth B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2025

    Buffalo RV Park

    Great overnight stop, walk to pub

    Nice clean city park with RV sites in back, 8 sites, wide sites with fire rings. Well maintained. No bath house but full hookup and trashcan available.

    5 min walk to Old 10 Saloon, nice inside good service.

    Use city registration site to reserve site, no sign in at front area needed.

Guide to McLeod

Camping near McLeod, North Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are great trails nearby, especially at Jorgen's Hollow Campground. One camper mentioned, "There's a nice four-mile easy trail that comes out of the campsite area."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Fort Ransom State Park Campground, visitors have spotted a variety of wildlife. One reviewer said, "We saw an incredible amount of wildlife in our one-day stay."
  • Fishing and Canoeing: The Little Yellowstone County Park is perfect for fishing and has a swimmable lake. A camper noted, "It's fun for the entire family."

What campers like:

  • Privacy and Space: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Hankinson Hills Campground. One visitor shared, "There are gorgeous sites well spaced and lots of shade."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms are a big plus. A reviewer at Jorgen's Hollow Campground mentioned, "The toilets are clean."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One camper at Sheyenne National Grassland said, "It’s a nice little campground. Quiet."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Jorgen's Hollow Campground, have no showers or trash services. A camper noted, "No trash, no water hookups."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many sites are not reservable. A visitor at Fort Ransom State Park Campground mentioned, "First come, first serve."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Little Yellowstone County Park, are only open from May to October. A camper pointed out, "This park had a surprising amount of space and amenities for a county park."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. Clausen Springs Park Campground has a playground, and one reviewer said, "It's fun for the entire family."
  • Explore Nature: Encourage kids to explore the trails. A camper at Hankinson Hills Campground mentioned, "Trails to bike ride around."
  • Pack Snacks: Bring snacks for hikes and outdoor activities. A visitor at Fort Ransom State Park Campground enjoyed local dining options, saying, "Dinner in town at a great restaurant."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites can be uneven. A camper at Lindenwood Campground noted, "Most sites are uneven, it’s ok for a one-nighter."
  • Space for Larger Rigs: Many campgrounds can accommodate big rigs. A visitor at Hankinson Hills Campground mentioned, "Some will fit larger rigs."
  • Plan for Wind: Be prepared for windy conditions, especially at open sites. A camper at Fort Ransom State Park Campground said, "You got to feel the ND winds (10-30mph+) all the time."

Camping near McLeod, North Dakota, has something for everyone. With its beautiful landscapes and friendly campgrounds, it's a great spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at McLeod Campground?

McLeod Campground offers basic amenities typical of grassland camping areas. For comparison, nearby Clausen Springs Park Campground features multiple amenities with scenic views of streams and a multi-use lake, while Brewer Lake Rec Area provides hookups, bathrooms, fishing opportunities, and a beach for swimming. McLeod Campground likely has primitive camping facilities including designated campsites, basic toilets, and possibly picnic tables, but lacks electricity and running water. The natural grassland setting offers hiking opportunities and wildlife viewing.

Do I need reservations for McLeod Campground and what are the fees?

McLeod Campground likely operates on a first-come, first-served basis typical of many grassland dispersed camping areas, though it's best to verify current reservation policies with the ranger station. Fees are typically minimal for these types of public campgrounds. For comparison, nearby campgrounds have varied fee structures - Fort Ransom State Park Campground charges state park fees and offers year-round multi-use facilities, while Dead Colt Creek Rec Area requires reservations for some sites. Expect to pay between $5-15 for basic sites without hookups at McLeod.

Where is McLeod Campground located and how do I get there?

McLeod Campground is located in eastern North Dakota, in the Sheyenne National Grassland area. The campground sits amidst the beautiful rolling prairie landscape typical of this region. For directions, you can follow trails through the Sheyenne National Grassland, though larger RVs should exercise caution on some trails like the 1212 trail which can be narrow. The campground is accessible by vehicle, but some roads may require careful navigation, especially for larger rigs over 35 feet.

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