Mel Rieman Rec, near Valley City, North Dakota, is a charming campground that offers a peaceful escape with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. With sites that provide a beautiful view of the lake, it’s a perfect spot for those looking to unwind and soak in nature.

This campground is known for its clean facilities, including flushable toilets and drinking water, which campers appreciate after a day of outdoor activities. Visitors have highlighted the serene atmosphere, with one camper noting, “It was a beautiful, quiet, simple and clean!” The nearby general store adds a nice touch, offering essentials and local goodies.

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the area is great for boating, and the access roads are well-maintained. Campers have enjoyed evening strolls along the road, taking in the peaceful surroundings and the starry skies. While some noted that cell service can be spotty, the tranquility of the site more than makes up for it.

If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, Mel Rieman Rec is a solid choice. Whether you’re camping in a tent, RV, or trying out glamping, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to connect with the great outdoors.

## Overview

 The Mel Rieman Campground and Recreation Area is a 70-acre facility on the shoreline of Lake Ashtabula in eastern North Dakota. The campground is known for its spectacular sunset views. It is close to the Baldhill Dam and within walking distance of the Mel Rieman day-use area, where visitors can swim, fish and picnic. Lake Ashtabula was created by the construction of the Baldhill Dam on the Sheyenne River in 1944, and is situated in one of the most scenic river valleys in the region. Visitors can choose from a wide range of recreation opportunities year-round, including ice fishing and cross-country skiing during winter months.
## Recreation

 There is no shortage of recreation opportunities and outdoor fun in and around the lake. The day-use area is adjacent to the campground and has a visitor center, playgrounds, picnic facilities, concessions, fishing spots and a boat ramp. The name \"Ashtabula\" is a Native American word meaning \"Fish River,\" which suits the lake's fish population; popular species include walleye, northern pike, white bass, yellow perch and black bullhead. With seven boat ramps, two accessible fishing piers and four automated fish cleaning stations, the lake is very convenient for anglers. Nearly 3,000 acres of land around the lake is managed as wildlife habitat by the Corps of Engineers and open to the public for wildlife viewing, birding, hiking and hunting. Hunters and anglers should contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department for seasons, restrictions and licenses; fishing licenses and bait may be purchased from concessionaires around the lake. Campers can also reach the 63-mile Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway and access nearly 35 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail within a short drive. 
## Natural Features

 The lake area lies amidst the 'prairie potholes' region of glacially-carved lakes in North Dakota. Bountiful migratory water birds flock to Lake Ashtabula, including the unique white pelican, which can be seen in large quantities during summer. The region also provides habitat for white-tailed deer, sharptail grouse, wild turkey and gray partridge.

Mel Rieman Rec

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Valley City. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Valley City camping trip.

Valley City

The Best Camping Near Valley City, North Dakota

This campground is not far from I-94. The campground is clean, quiet, and beautiful. We enjoyed the views of the lake and the rolling hill, the immaculate star gazing, and peacefulness of this camp ground.

There is a resort nearby with ice cream, firewood, and souvenirs. 

Coming from the East, we made the mistake of taking highway 17, which happens to be a dirt road. If you take highway 19 it’s completely paved. 

Hidden Gem

This a beautiful, small, and family friendly campgrounds. Most of the campsites have a beautiful view of the lake. The access roads are asphalt. Security comes around regularly. We had a wonderful experience. 

Do note that cel and wifi access is bad at best. There is a store close by that has access. The camp sites are small and close together. Besides that it is truly a beautiful site. 

Camping above the lake

Walk along the road at night for a nice spooky stroll. Obviously built for boating. Eldest daughter says it was “cute”.

Good for an overnight

Highly recommend if you’re looking for a place a little off the beaten track, with serene landscapes and feelings of privacy, with comforts of a few fellow campers, clean toilets and showers, and a wonderful local general store as you enter the campgrounds. 

Beautiful, quiet, simple and clean! 

Stopped here on our way through North Dakota, perfect site with flushable bathrooms, good water and a beautiful sunrise.

Beautiful site, with good amenities

As soon as I drove up, the first thing I noticed were the backpacking and walk - in sites — I was instantly excited. As I continued up the hill and caught sight of the huge park and expansive beach, I couldn’t believe I wasn’t staying longer. I visited during the off-season, so the restaurant and bar were closed, but there was still plenty to see and do. The on-site store was well-stocked, and there were even rental options for different types of paddling. The lake itself is stunning, with gorgeous views and even a few scenic hills.


Photos of Mel Rieman Rec

Real photos from real campers