Oasis on the prairie
This is a state recreation area (like a small state park) that is centered around a large reservoir in a valley, surrounded by a forest that we got to see in all its autumn glory. It was relatively quiet there due to our fall visit, I would guess it would be much busier in summer with beachgoers and boats. This is a great area get away for a few days, with hiking, nature preserve and arboretum, beach, kayaking, and more. It was primo bird migration time when we were there, it is not just an oasis in the prairie for people, but also a great habitat island for birdwatching with lots of spots within the park and in adjacent wetlands and refuges that are incredible bird stopovers during fall migration. A really great nature spot for a fall get away. We didnt go biking, but there is a very nice bike trail that goes from the park into the small town of Larimore a few miles away, a scenic and level bike ride that would be a nice way to run to town for re supply or a meal out. Most folks camping here seem to be monthly or seasonal RV folks who actually park their campers there for the summer season, however there is an area reserved for nightly or weekly campers only, ranging from basic to various hookups, and also some campsites for tenting. The campsites have very little privacy and I personally would prefer to be there during the quieter off season for that reason. There is a manager on site, and various facilities, though some were closed or limited when we were there due to the pandemic. Be sure to check the website for updates when the camping season is back in full swing again!