North Dakota camping areas near Valley City offer sites in the Sheyenne River Valley with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 feet. Most camping options are concentrated along Lake Ashtabula, an 18-mile reservoir created by Baldhill Dam, with additional sites scattered within a 15-mile radius of Valley City. The camping season typically sees temperature variations from 45°F nights to 85°F days during peak summer months.
What to do
Kayaking at Faust Park: Launch directly from the shoreline access point for paddling the Sheyenne River. A short walking path connects the camping area to the river launch. "There is a landing for canoes or kayaks and a trailer selling firewood. I was there in late August and there were 4 apple trees with ripe apples!" reports Steven L. from Faust Park.
Hiking North Country Trail: Access segments of this national scenic trail from several campgrounds in the area. "The hiking trails are my favorite; they are well-maintained and interconnect with the North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT)," notes Jo Outdoors from Clausen Springs Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for walleye, northern pike, and perch in local lakes and rivers. "Fished most of the day while sitting on my chair just in the water. Caught a sunburn and two small perch. Later they got the rest of the school to come out and jump like crazy," shares Margaret W. about her experience at Moon Lake.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer natural separation from neighbors. "The campsites are all relatively private with a secluded feeling, some more than others of course. There is a good amount of brush and trees separating sites," explains Jo Outdoors about Eggerts Landing.
Stargazing conditions: Clear night skies provide excellent visibility for stars when weather permits. "As soon as I drove up, the first thing I noticed were the backpacking and walk-in sites — I was instantly excited. As I continued up the hill and caught sight of the huge park and expansive beach, I couldn't believe I wasn't staying longer," notes Susan R. about Mel Rieman Rec.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms and shower houses receive consistent positive mentions. "We enjoyed our 3-night stay during the midweek. This COE campground has a lot of mature trees so satellite would not be an option for most sites," reports MickandKarla W. about their experience at Eggerts Landing.
What you should know
Gravel road access: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. "Kind of felt like I was about to get lost trying to find it. Just about when you start wondering if there's actually a camp spot is about when you find it," explains Jeremy C. about Moon Lake.
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near several camping areas, affecting nighttime quiet. "The train tracks are across the river and maybe 4 or 5 came by during the night," notes Steven L. at Faust Park, while another camper reported, "Probably 10 of them passed through during the night. I typically sleep with earplugs, but I still woke up every time."
Scout
