Campgrounds near Jamestown, North Dakota offer diverse terrain from prairie landscapes to lakeside settings. Access roads to many sites become challenging after rainfall, with 4WD recommended for reaching more remote areas. Winter camping options are limited, with most facilities closing between October and May when temperatures can drop well below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at Moon Lake: This secluded camping area provides excellent fishing opportunities with boat access and a small beach area. "This tiny campground is right next to a lake with a boat ramp and a covered picnic table," notes reviewer Lady Phyre about Moon Lake, adding that privacy seekers can find "a little nook surrounded by trees and shrubs" perfect for tent camping.
Hiking the trail system: The extensive trail network at Parkhurst Campground includes the 5.5-mile North Ridge Trail and 8-mile Pipestem Creek Trail. "This area encompasses about 140 acres and contains the 5.5 mile North Ridge Trail, 8 mile Pipestem Creek Trail, and equine trails," explains Jo Outdoors, who appreciates the "very pretty prairie hiking as well as lush, wooded tracts."
Visit local attractions: Jamestown offers nearby attractions worth exploring. "Bison herd and western novelist Louis L'Amour birthplace near by," notes Paul G. who stayed at Frontier Fort RV Park. While at Jamestown Campground, camper Lee F. mentions, "Jamestown speedway dirt track has races every Saturday evening during the summer and we were able to catch the season opener in May. The world's largest buffalo is also nearby."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of Jamestown Campground. "Maticulatly cared for campground, safe, friendly, a nice place to rest, small but pretty walking trail that the kids can bike," writes Lori H. Another camper, Tina, adds, "They had a big grass field for walking dogs, which was great. Wifi was really fast. Owners were super nice."
Lakeside camping: Waterfront sites allow campers to enjoy sunset views and wildlife watching. At James River Bay Area Camping, Raq enjoyed how "the lake is beautiful. Got to watch storm pass thru while cows grazed on rolling hills across the water." Similarly, Susan R. found camping at Moon Lake "very calming and serene. I parked right next to the lake and watched the ducks."
Quiet atmosphere: Many sites offer peaceful surroundings, especially during weekdays. At Lakeside Campground, Jess R. notes, "We camped here on a weekday and had the whole place to ourselves. Quiet (other than distant freeway noise) well maintained, accommodating camp host." At Moon Lake, campers frequently mention being the only ones there midweek, with Jon S. noting he was the "only one here on a Thursday."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: North Dakota temperatures fluctuate dramatically, even in summer. Emilie V. at Moon Lake recommends bringing swimming gear as the "beautiful clear water was calling my name in the evening," but others note weather can change quickly.
Access road conditions: Many campgrounds have dirt or gravel access roads that can become problematic. At Jamestown Campground, Louise L. notes, "As others have mentioned, the access road is dusty and a bit bumpy." Pat M. confirms, "It was raining when we arrived so access road muddy! They added some sand on areas and we had 4 wheel drive!"
Campground layout variations: Site arrangements differ widely between campgrounds. At Parkhurst, Jo Outdoors explains, "This is a pretty open campground, across a large area with dividing roads and trees throughout. Even though spots aren't secluded typically, and there isn't site division by trees, we still haven't been forced to come into contact or interact with neighbors."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Families with children will find kid-friendly features at several campgrounds. At Lakeside Campground, JMH noted it was a "Great campground" despite the hot water being temporarily out of service. Robert mentions Jamestown Campground "has a playground lots of grass they have sports equipment you can barrow."
Swimming options: Multiple locations offer swimming areas for children. Stacy M. who visited Jamestown Dam/Lakeside Marina Campground with her family reports, "Playground was nice and our kiddos loved it," adding that the campground was "very quiet for us. Lots of shade trees."
Avoid holiday weekends for quieter experience: Weekends can get crowded and noisy at some locations. One camper at Parkhurst noted a specific challenge: "Warning this trail is used for cross country meets. Besides some porta potties being set up on the side of the campground there was no indication of this event happening until the buses started rolling in."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RVers should be prepared for varying site conditions. Mason at Pelican Point Landing reports, "Sayed in a 36 ft 5th wheel and had no issues getting it setup, although the ground was far from level, we managed." Similarly, at Moon Lake, Rick M. warns, "The lot is definitely NOT level."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer full hookups but with varying amperage. Susan H. found Jamestown Campground offered "nice big pull thru spots. Close to I 94, but the traffic noise isn't too bad." Kelly N. describes it as a "Beautiful, very well maintained, very dog friendly family owned rv park. So many personal touches, beyond friendly service, level site."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. Ryan O. notes that Spiritwood Resort Campground is open "All year" which is unusual for the area, while most others typically operate between May and October. Jacob D. found Parkhurst County Park had "Nobody here in the winter. $10 feet a night on the honor system."
