North Dakota's lakes and reservoirs in the Tioga region serve as popular recreation areas for fishing and family outings. Most campgrounds are situated at elevations between 1,900-2,300 feet, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-85°F. These rural camping areas experience high visitor traffic during holiday weekends while remaining relatively quiet during weekdays.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Northgate Dam Rec Center, families enjoy excellent fishing for trout, walleye, and bluegill. As one visitor notes: "Bring a kayak, canoe, or boat and enjoy excellent fishing for trout, walleye and blue gill!"
Water recreation: Kota Ray Dam provides water activities for visitors seeking alternatives to larger reservoirs. "The swimming beach is pretty decent, the campsites aren't too terrible... and it's a great little pond for kayaks and paddleboards," according to a recent camper.
Playgrounds for children: Multiple camping areas feature playground equipment for families. At Parshall Bay Recreation Area, visitors appreciate the recreation options: "Great place to boat and had a couple fun playgrounds for the kids."
Lake exploration: Explore the numerous small lakes in the area, which typically range from 25-400 acres. Access points vary in quality depending on seasonal conditions and water levels.
What campers like
Budget-friendly rates: Most campsites in the Tioga region offer affordable camping options compared to other recreational areas. Northgate Dam Rec Center provides exceptional value: "Best part... $5 per night, $10 if you want electric."
Fishing accessibility: The region's smaller lakes provide good fishing opportunities from shore or small watercraft. One visitor described Kota Ray Dam: "Perch are hot right now. Along with a few other species in this little lake. Fun place to go for the weekend far enough out of town to feel like a getaway."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds provide peaceful settings away from urban noise. A visitor to Northgate Dam noted: "The location was beautiful and peaceful. The campground was very clean. I wish we had been able to stay longer."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept grounds and facilities despite remote locations. Visitors consistently mention facility cleanliness as a positive feature.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds provide basic services only. At White Buffalo RV Park (now RD RV Park), one camper warns: "Not really setup for overnight campers. There are no showers, toilet or water. This facility is for long term guests that are fully self contained."
Seasonal operation: Nearly all campgrounds in the region close during winter months, typically operating from May through September/October. Most close entirely during North Dakota's harsh winter season.
First-come, first-served: Several campgrounds don't accept reservations. At Parshall Bay Recreation Area: "The only downfall is that it is not reservable. You have to drive out there with your camper or RV and be in front of the office to get for your spot."
Primitive conditions: Many sites lack full hookups or modern conveniences. Most offer electric-only sites with vault toilets rather than flush facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Visit playgrounds: Multiple recreation areas feature playgrounds suitable for different age groups. Northgate Dam Rec Center offers "2 play grounds, 4 little docks (1 fishing, for swimming area), Fish cleaning station!"
Choose weekdays: Holiday weekends see significant crowds at most lakes. At Blacktail Dam, "Around the 4th of July can get super busy. They keep the facilities clean!"
Bring water toys: Small lakes offer safe environments for paddle sports. One visitor to Kota Ray Dam shared: "The fishing is good and it's a great little pond for kayaks and paddleboards."
Pack insect repellent: Mosquitoes and biting flies can be problematic, particularly in late June through August near shorelines.
Tips from RVers
Call ahead for hookups: Electric hookups are available at most sites, but specific amperage varies. Some campgrounds share electric pedestals between sites, requiring longer cords.
Plan for dump station limitations: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations. Those that do may charge additional fees beyond camping costs.
Check site levelness: Several campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Kota Ray Dam, one RVer noted: "Picked a site online from the website. Looked like a nice long back in by the lake. Turns out it had a big hump in the middle of it and the power was on the wrong side a to far away to reach."
Consider self-contained options: For pet friendly camping near Tioga, North Dakota, self-contained RVs offer the most flexibility. Several campgrounds have limited or seasonal restroom facilities.
