Campgrounds near West Fargo offer a mix of prairie and riverside experiences with summer temperatures reaching 85°F and winter lows dropping below 0°F. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with most facilities closing by mid-October due to North Dakota's harsh winters. The flat terrain of the Red River Valley creates unique camping conditions with limited natural barriers between sites.
What to do
Hiking prairie trails: At Jorgen's Hollow Campground, you'll find direct access to the North Country Trail through the Sheyenne Grasslands. "The North Country Trail goes right through camp. Hike (or ride your horse) it into the grasslands or the other way to join more trails," notes a visitor who appreciated the trail system. The main trail offers a 4-mile easy loop suitable for beginners.
Water recreation: Long Lake Campsite-RV Resort features a sandy beach area for swimming during summer months. "Large sandy beach and beautiful swimming area, store for convenience if forgetful, helpful and friendly staff, huge parking and play area for kids," reports one camper. The lake allows boating with designated areas for watercraft.
Wildlife viewing: The grasslands near West Fargo provide opportunities to spot native birds and animals. "Lots of woodpeckers to see and coyotes calling at dusk. Sheyenne river nearby," mentions a visitor to Jorgen's Hollow. Prairie chickens and butterflies are also common sights during summer months in the tall grass prairie areas.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Many campgrounds in the region have significantly lower occupancy during weekdays. "All quiet, on the tall grass prairie... Not sure what it's like on weekends, but arrived on a Tuesday in August; I was the second camper to arrive," notes a Jorgen's Hollow visitor who enjoyed the solitude.
Spacious sites: Buffalo River State Park Campground offers well-separated camping areas. "Spectacularly well-maintained campground along the Buffalo River in western Minnesota, half an hour east of Fargo, ND. Two small loops of campsites, one with electrical service and the other without... Well spaced sites, with some screening between sites," reports a recent visitor.
Urban convenience: Camping near West Fargo provides easy access to city amenities while still offering outdoor experiences. "Snagged a spot here for an overnight visit to Fargo. Super friendly staff and a nice spot right along the Red River. Great for families too because it is right in the middle of a city park!" comments a Lindenwood Campground visitor.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds in the area experience significant road noise. At Lindenwood Campground, campers should be prepared for ambient noise. "You are right off of 94 and the bridge that crosses the Red River from Minnesota to North Dakota. All we heard were cars and trucks all night long. Hardly slept. But it is a nice park to visit during the day," warns one reviewer.
Seasonal bugs: Insect repellent is essential, particularly in summer months. "The campsite was spacious and nicely kept. There was a water filling station and toilets and showers near by. It was great. Tons of mosquitos though make sure you have spray," advises a Buffalo River State Park camper.
Limited services at some locations: Several campgrounds offer minimal amenities. "National forest campground. First come first served only with no attendant. There's one manual pump well and two vault toilets. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring and most had nice level places to park," explains a Jorgen's Hollow visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, look for sites near play areas. "2 great playgrounds nearby for the kiddos. We were on site B9 and it was spacious. However the road noise from the freeway was pretty loud," notes a family who stayed at Lindenwood Campground.
Swimming options: Buffalo RV Park provides a convenient base for families. "Clean, easy booking online, full hookups and less than 10 minutes from 94. 8 sites total. Stayed at site 1 for $25. Great big fire pit but street light is right next to the site and bugs were biting. Overall quiet, safe location in historic town," reports a visitor who found the location family-friendly.
Budget-friendly activities: Many campgrounds in the area offer affordable outdoor recreation. "The water from the pump has particulates in it. This is also a 'pack it in, pack it out place' for now. Bring your trash out with you. This place is a beautiful find!" shares a Jorgen's Hollow camper who enjoyed the free trails and stargazing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Red Trail Vineyard RV Park, RVers should note the open layout. "This looks like a new site, made in a flat field near the vineyard. It is basically an open flat field with power/water hook ups in the middle and 14 gravel spots on either side. There are a few young trees planted, but no shade. No picnic tables, no restrooms, all pretty bare bones," advises an RV camper.
Full hookup options: Several parks offer complete RV connections. "Loved the full hookup sites. No firepot or staff on-site," notes a visitor to Hillsboro Campground and RV Park, highlighting the availability of 50-amp service with sewer connections despite limited amenities.
Connectivity concerns: For RVers working remotely, some campgrounds offer reliable internet. "We stayed here for an entire week and felt very welcomed. We also worked full time from a spot by the main office and their onsite WiFi was pretty fast ~50/10 mbps," reports a Long Lake Campsite-RV Resort visitor who successfully balanced work and camping.
