Managed by Oliver County, Nelson Lake sits just outside Center and provides free, no-frills camping along the lake's edge. There are no numbered sites. Campers pull off onto open grassy areas, some with fire rings and a garbage can nearby. The lake allows fishing and swimming, and cell service is available. Crowds pick up in summer given the campground's proximity to town. Campers wanting hookups or more structure can look at Center RV Park a few miles up the road.
Description
Nelson Lake offers free primitive campsites. It is approximately 573 square acres in size with 13 miles of shoreline. With depth reaching 35 feet at its deepest, but averaging about 16 feet deep. You can find a variety of fish in Nelson Lake including Bluegill, Largemouth Bass and white Crappie.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsNelson Lake is located in North Dakota near Center
Address
2301 35th Ave SW
Center, ND
Coordinates
47.08535700704779 N
101.23634769155228 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
Drive Time
- 34 min from Bismarck, ND
- 1 hr 21 min from Minot, ND
- 3 hrs 5 min from Fargo, ND
- 3 hrs 53 min from Grand Forks, ND




