RV campgrounds near McLeod, North Dakota sit within the Sheyenne River valley area, where rolling prairies meet scattered oak woodlands and grasslands. Most facilities in this region operate between May and October, with daytime summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Mosquitoes and biting flies are common throughout camping areas from June through August, particularly near waterways and after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking trails: Jorgen's Hollow Campground provides access to the North Country Trail with a 4-mile loop directly from the campground. "There is a nice four Mile easy trail that comes out of the campsite area," notes camper Don C., who appreciated the relaxing atmosphere surrounded by trees.
Water recreation: Fort Ransom State Park Campground offers canoeing and kayaking on the Sheyenne River. "We didn't explore much of the park unfortunately. We really wished we had rented a canoe or kayak (from the park) but it was a holiday weekend so they were all gone by the time we sauntered out of the tent near noon," reports one visitor who recommends arriving early to secure equipment.
Historical exploration: Visit historic structures at Fort Ransom State Park for pioneer history. A camper explains, "Very green park with a lot of history, including a preserved farm about early white settlers. We met some people who were staying here with their horses - how fun!"
Stargazing: Jorgen's Hollow Campground offers excellent night sky viewing away from city lights. "Great stargazing. Clean water and vault toilets. Great access to the NCT. Great signage. Well kept. I enjoyed my stay here," writes Rachel O., who visited during a less crowded period.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Buffalo RV Park receives praise for its generous layout. "Spacious, easy access, level sites with convenient hookups and garbage can at each site. Open landscape, but good space between sites," according to Victor E., who camped there in 2025.
Wildlife viewing: Hankinson Hills Campground delivers good wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw an incredible amount of wildlife in our one day stay," says a camper who visited Fort Ransom, while at Hankinson Hills another reports hearing "coyotes calling at dusk" and seeing numerous woodpeckers.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. At Hankinson Hills, a camper noted, "I was lucky enough to get a spot far under the trees. It was quite private and even though it was labor day weekend, it was quiet and peaceful."
Accessibility to towns: The proximity to small communities makes supply runs convenient. "5 min walk to Old 10 Saloon, nice inside good service," writes Beth B. about Buffalo RV Park's convenient location, while another mentions Kathryn as "an adorable" town worth exploring.
What you should know
Insect prevalence: Biting insects are common throughout the region. "Don't forget bug repellent. In as many forms as you can wear," warns a camper at Red Trail Vineyard RV Park, while another at Hankinson Hills mentions "the abundance of biting flies and mosquitoes" as the only downside to an otherwise beautiful stay.
Weather preparedness: Red Trail Vineyard RV Park and similar open-field sites experience significant wind. A visitor at Fort Ransom notes, "Stayed at a site in the open field near to the road (last site available) only down side was that you got to feel the ND winds (10-30mph+) all the time."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others are first-come. "Use city registration site to reserve site, no sign in at front area needed," explains a Buffalo RV Park camper, while many forest service sites like Hankinson Hills operate on first-come basis.
Water quality differences: Hand pump wells at certain campgrounds may have particulate matter. At Jorgen's Hollow, a visitor suggests: "You might consider bringing your own water - the water from the pump has particulates in it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lindenwood Campground offers multiple play areas for children. "2 great playgrounds nearby for the kiddos. We were on site B9 and it was spacious," reports Amy K., though she cautions about road noise from the nearby freeway.
Educational opportunities: Fort Ransom State Park provides interactive historical exhibits. "The camp staff were especially great with lots of stories to entertain the preschooler and grandma!" shares one visitor who appreciated the educational value.
Rental equipment: Several parks offer family-friendly recreation equipment. "There was rental bikes and canoes which was fun for the kids, as well as fishing - only caught one catfish but was fun anyway," notes a Lindenwood visitor.
Seasonal events: Check park calendars for special family events. "Sodbuster Days, Halloween in June and Christmas in July is a must," recommends Rudy W. about Fort Ransom State Park's family programming.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At most area campgrounds, choosing sites away from main roads reduces noise. For Lindenwood, one RVer advises: "Would recommend staying in the B lot, spots are spaced apart more, facing the river, and are further away from the Interstate."
Leveling requirements: Buffalo RV Park features level sites requiring minimal setup. "Nice clean city park with RV sites in back, 8 sites, wide sites with fire rings. Well maintained," reports Beth B., who appreciated the straightforward setup process.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by location. At Red Trail Vineyard, a camper describes it as "basically an open flat field with power/water hook ups in the middle and 14 gravel spots on either side," highlighting the basic nature of this facility.
Shade considerations: Most RV parks in the area provide limited natural shade. At Hankinson Hills, a recent visitor notes that "Each site has a fire ring and a nice table, most spaces have trees to provide shade," making it somewhat unusual for the region.
Cell service reliability: Coverage varies significantly between locations. At Hankinson Hills, a camper reports "Good cell service, I was able to work on Friday via my hot spot," whereas more remote locations may have spotty coverage.
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