The Wahpeton area offers several equestrian-friendly campgrounds set within North Dakota's prairie ecosystem. Sites are positioned across grasslands and wooded areas with elevations ranging from 960-1100 feet above sea level. The region receives approximately 22 inches of annual precipitation, creating seasonal variations in ground conditions and vegetation that affect horse trail access.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The North Country Trail provides direct access from Jorgen's Hollow Campground into the surrounding Sheyenne Grasslands with multiple connector paths. "NCT access there. Lots of woodpeckers to see and coyotes calling at dusk. Sheyenne river nearby," notes reviewer Layne W.
Hiking circuit: A 4-mile trail loop connects directly to camping areas, suitable for both hikers and horses. "There's a nice four Mile easy trail that comes out of the campsite area," reports Don C., who visited on a weekday when only five other campers were present.
Wildlife observation: Prairie ecosystem viewing opportunities include ground birds and mammals. At Sica Hollow State Park Campground, Teresa T. notes: "There are well maintained trails that go throughout and streams and small waterfalls. Some of the most interesting hiking on this end of the state."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of separation between campsites. At Jorgen's Hollow Campground, "it's pretty well dispersed camping with bushes for the most part separating the sites," according to Don C.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates optimal stargazing conditions. Rachel O. reports, "Great stargazing. Clean water and vault toilets. Great access to the NCT. Great signage."
Prairie flora: Native grassland plants attract butterflies and other pollinators. "Abundant flowers and butterflies. Even a couple prairie chickens. What a wonderful night," writes Dillon M., who rated the experience 4.5 stars despite the minimalist facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal insect populations: Flies can be problematic during warm months. A camper at Hankinson Hills Campground 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. Good cell service, I was able to work on Friday via my hot spot."
Water quality: Hand-pumped water contains visible particles at some locations. Riding with S. confirms: "Clean, quiet campground with picnic table& iron fire ring/grill at each site. Partial shade. Friendly campers. Hand pump well water."
Access road conditions: Some horse campgrounds require travel on gravel roads. Nick reported about Jorgen's Hollow: "3 miles of gravel road to the campground but the road was smooth and in good condition."
Livestock presence: Cattle graze near some campground boundaries. Brendon K. observed: "Showed up on a Thursday night, and I am the sole camper in the entire place. Nicely set up, and seems well cared for. Only problem: there are cows everywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Several campgrounds feature flat, well-marked paths suitable for inexperienced riders. At Maplewood State Park Campground, Melissa G. explains: "The park is stunning on horseback in the fall time. Whether hiking or riding this park hasn't been a disappointment yet! The campground is well dispersed and each spot has a little privacy of its own."
Noise considerations: Train sounds periodically audible at certain campgrounds. Katie L. writes, "Can hear trains running by every so often."
Site selection strategy: Scout early for shade protection. "We spent a night there in the fall. It is well off the main road but the dirt road is passable with any rig. The sites are varied, well kept and some will fit larger rigs," advises Doug W.
Walk-in options: Beers Hike-In Site offers an alternative to traditional horse camping. Shawn A. reports: "The walk is an easy walk. There is a nice fire pit and good area for fishing right at the site. Also there is a picnic table and a vault toilet. Surprisingly there was toilet paper there!"
Tips from RVers
Parking space dimensions: Sites vary in size and levelness for horse trailers and RVs. Nick noted at Jorgen's Hollow that "Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring and most had nice level places to park."
Electric hookup availability: Most horse campgrounds near Wahpeton operate without electrical connections. Nick confirms: "National forest campground. First come first served only with no attendant. There's on manual pump well and two vault toilets."
Cell service reliability: Coverage varies between locations but is generally adequate for basic communication. Teresa T. reports: "Good cell service, I was able to work on Friday via my hot spot."
