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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.
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.
Mel Rieman Campground has 27 campsites, 15 of which offer electric hookups. The facility also provides drinking water, showers and flush toilets. The nearest town is Valley City, 10 miles away.
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.
The main route to the park is via Interstate 94 to Valley City exit 292. Follow the signs through Valley City and turn left onto County Road 19. Travel for 10 miles.
If you want to swim, DON’T come here. Lake is full of green-blue algues which are super dangerous for your health. If I would have known before I would have never booked a demo site here. Speaking of camp site, they’re well maintain and have electricity.
Very small with tight, curvey roads in campground. Arrived to no attendant, saw the host sitting outside asked for map there is none. Filled water tank proceeded to site 11, electric only site slopes to the rear, very shady. Very busy on the weekend. Went to take showers about 6:30 pm Sunday after everyone left, they where nasty. Also the trash areas had trash overflowing outside the cans. Host left after all the weekend warriors. Park Rangers ride the campground, you would think they could load the trash and take it out. Bathrooms need to be cleaned daily. We where one of two campers still there on Monday. Would not go here again.
Cool and quiet place to stay and view the bkue color of the reservoir
Full disclosure, I am biased because I grew up camping on Lake Ashtabula and Mel Rieman. However, I think anyone with a tent all the way up to a mega RV would enjoy what this campground has to offer. A huge beach, clean facilities and a friendly camp host for starters. Add a nice boat ramp with fish cleaning facilities and plenty of open water for fishing, tubing/water skiing and swimming. The Hungry Pelican offers treats and beverages for both young and old, pontoon rentals and more. Don't even think twice. Book your stay at Mel Reiman Recreation Area. You won't be disappointed.
