Glamping close to Wahpeton, North Dakota offers visitors the chance to explore the Red River Valley region where North Dakota and Minnesota meet. This area sits at approximately 968 feet above sea level in a flat river basin with rich agricultural land. Summers can be hot with temperatures reaching the 90s, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Water activities on motorless lakes: At Glendalough State Park Campground, visitors enjoy pristine waters without motor noise. "Only Tents Allowed--this is the most serene place! They don't allow motor boats on one of the lakes so there is always calm water to canoe, kayak, swim, or paddleboard in," notes Emily R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural areas around Wahpeton provide excellent chances to spot native animals. "We saw many deer, caught many pan fish and observed an eagle in it's nest... We can't wait to go back," shares Pete T. about his family's visit to Glendalough State Park.
Hiking through varied ecosystems: Buffalo River State Park Campground offers trails through different landscapes. "Several looping hiking trails start in and around the campground, so you can put together a hike from 15 minutes to two hours. Ours was about an hour, half in the prairie and half along the river," explains Patrick M.
What campers like
Privacy at tent-only sites: Campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere at cart-in campgrounds. "All sites (except one handicapped site) are tent only and cart-in sites. That being said, the trip from the (assigned) parking spot to your site is very short and very flat," reports Pete T. from Glendalough State Park.
Clean facilities: Tipsinah Mounds City Park maintains good amenities for glampers. "Restroom and shower facilities onsite, some lakefront campsites and some that are not. Public boat launch, sandy swimming beach, picnic shelters. WIFI is provided," confirms Tori K.
Seasonal beauty: Fall colors make Maplewood State Park Campground especially attractive for glamping near Wahpeton. "The park is stunning on horseback in the fall time. Whether hiking or riding this park hasn't been a disappointment yet!" says Melissa G.
What you should know
Site spacing and privacy: Campgrounds vary in how secluded each site feels. "The sites with electrical hook up are less private, but it's a family camping site so it's very friendly. The sites without any hookups are more private and secluded, great for tent camping," explains Leslie R. about Maplewood State Park.
Distance to facilities: At some parks, amenities can be far from certain campsites. "The campsites are reasonable and private. But if you're not in the main loop you'll be walking for half a mile round trip," advises Oliver I. about Maplewood State Park.
Insects and trail conditions: Be prepared for the local wildlife, including insects. "The grass was long and we quickly found ticks crawling up our leg. More trimming of the trails would make hiking more pleasant," warns Art S., highlighting the importance of proper clothing and bug spray.
Tips for camping with families
Hay rides and planned activities: Hankinson City Park offers family-friendly amenities for luxury camping near Wahpeton. "4 grass spots with 30 amp electric picnic table and trash cans. Dump station at the pay box but no water. Found a business that let us fill our tanks. Bathroom across from the sites. Quiet park very nicely kept," notes Always C.
Playgrounds and recreational options: Kids need places to burn energy between outdoor adventures. "There is a nice beach and the lake is clear. There is a big playground, basketball court, and ball field. The store has necessities and they will even make you a pizza and deliver to your site," shares Lisa about Tipsinah Mounds.
Beginner-friendly settings: Some areas are particularly suited for first-time campers or families. "What a wonderful park for families and first time campers. All sites (except one handicapped site) are tent only and cart-in sites," recommends Pete T. about the family-friendly atmosphere at Glendalough State Park.
Tips from RVers
Fairground camping for convenience: Red River Valley Fairgrounds offers basic facilities for RVers visiting Wahpeton. "This is a convenient stop-over when traveling. However, interstate 94 runs by it and nearby trains run all night with horns blaring," cautions Duncan G. about noise issues.
Electrical hookup options: At Kidder Recreation Area, the setup caters to different camping styles. "There's a short row of camp spots in the sun for campers. Seems like a good portion of it is full of people who are here all the time," observes Teresa T.
Site accessibility and size: RVers should know about the terrain and space available. "Level sites with cement pad. Some pull through most back in. Amazingly, very quiet at night," reports Kim B. about the Red River Valley Fairgrounds during a busy event period.
