Buffalo River State Park Campground offers spacious sites set in a meticulously maintained natural setting approximately 15 miles east of West Fargo, North Dakota. The campground features two loops with electrical hookups, modern shower facilities, and access to several walking trails through native prairie landscapes. Most campsites have good separation with natural greenery providing privacy between sites. The location serves as a convenient base for travelers looking for glamping near West Fargo with access to both natural settings and urban amenities.
What to do
Swimming access: Buffalo River State Park Campground provides a dedicated swimming area that requires less exposure to chemicals than public pools. "The swimming area is wonderful! Less chlorine than you'd ever get exposed to in a public pool and picnic table access with lots of area to picnic," notes Brianna V.
Wildlife viewing: The natural prairie vegetation throughout the park creates habitat for diverse wildlife. "The trails are the perfect amount for that purpose and he enjoys the wildlife that hides in the natural prairie fauna," reports a visitor who frequently walks their dog in the park.
Hiking options: Several interconnected trails allow for walks ranging from short strolls to longer excursions. "Several looping hiking trails start in and around the campground, so you can put together a hike from 15 minutes to two hours," explains Patrick M., who created his own hour-long hike combining prairie and riverside sections.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The park's maintenance standards receive consistent praise from visitors. "Spectacularly well-maintained campground along the Buffalo River in western Minnesota, half an hour east of Fargo, ND. Very clean bathhouse (appears new) with flush toilets, hot showers and a dish-washing station," reports Patrick M.
Spacious sites: The campground layout provides ample room between sites. "The campsite was spacious and nicely kept. There was a water filling station and toilets and showers near by," notes Sophia P., though she cautions about mosquitoes and recommends bringing insect repellent.
Convenient shopping: Red River Valley Fairgrounds provides easy access to retail options. "There is easy access down 13th avenue to shopping centers in Fargo," points out Duncan G., who found the location practical despite some noise issues.
What you should know
Limited river access: While the Buffalo River runs through the park, reaching it requires some effort. "The river access requires a .5 mile walk and there really isn't much to do or anything unique to see," advises Delanie J., who rated the park as "plain, but overall a nice place to stay."
Noise considerations: The Red River Valley Fairgrounds location has convenient access but experiences noise issues. "Interstate 94 runs by it and nearby trains run all night with horns blaring," reports one camper, noting the compromise between convenience and tranquility.
Park maintenance: The level of maintenance at Buffalo River State Park exceeds many comparable facilities. "If you want the best kept state park I have seen this is the place. Not a scrap of trash the restrooms clean and well stocked. You don't have a pothole in site- heck not even a weed on the road," shares StaceeQ Q.
Tips for camping with families
Practice runs: The Red River Valley Fairgrounds offers a practical setting for new campers to test their equipment. "This is a good place to do a practice run for newbies. It is only a few miles from Outlet Recreation also which can be handy if you need something from an RV dealer," suggests Chris A.
Lawn games: Open spaces at Buffalo River provide room for recreational activities. "The campground was pretty open, but it was a fun place. There is a swimming pond close to the campground and some open area to play lawn games," reports Stephanie H.
