The East Ashtabula Crossing Campground is located on 12 developed acres adjacent to Lake Ashtabula in eastern North Dakota. It is one of the most popular campgrounds in the area.
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, offering visitors a wide range of recreation opportunities year-round.
Summer activities include fishing, boating, swimming and picnicking, while Ice fishing and cross-country skiing are popular during winter months.
Recreation
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, three 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 drive the 63-mile Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway and access nearly 35 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail nearby.
Facilities
East Ashtabula Crossing has 38 campsites, 32 of which offer electric hookups. The facility also features a swimming beach, drinking water, flush toilets, a playground and a picnic shelter.
Within walking distance campers will find a dump station, fishing pier, boat ramp, restaurant and hiking trails. The nearest town is Valley City, less than 15 miles away.
Natural Features
The campground is on a wooded hillside offering shade for most sites. It lies amidst the 'prairie potholes' region of glacially-carved lakes in North Dakota.
Spring and fall bring bountiful views of migratory water birds to Lake Ashtabula, including the unique white pelican, which can be seen in large flocks during summer.
The lake region also provides habitat for white-tailed deer, sharptail grouse, wild turkey and gray partridge.
The facts
36 bookable sites
37 sites in total, including non-bookable
Vehicles up to 79 ft
Up to 16 people per site
Loops: ASHTABULA CROSSING
Site types
30 Standard Electric
6 Walk To
1 Management
Amenities
✓ Electric hookups
✓ Campfires allowed
✓ Fire pits
✓ Picnic tables
✓ Shade
✓ Pets allowed
Not recorded upstream: water hookups, sewer hookups, grills.
The main route to the park is via Interstate 94 to Valley City exit 292. Follow the signs through Valley City and follow County Road 21 north for 15 miles.
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 14 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
Map
More photos
Member photos
Common questions about East Ashtabula Crossing
Can you reserve a site at East Ashtabula Crossing?
Yes, East Ashtabula Crossing is reservable through Recreation.gov.
How many campsites does East Ashtabula Crossing have?
37 sites in total, of which 36 can be booked.
What is the maximum RV length at East Ashtabula Crossing?
79 ft. That is the longest vehicle the sites here are recorded as taking; individual sites may be shorter.
Are pets allowed at East Ashtabula Crossing?
Yes, pets are allowed at East Ashtabula Crossing.
Does East Ashtabula Crossing have hookups?
Electric.
Are campfires allowed at East Ashtabula Crossing?
Campfires are allowed at East Ashtabula Crossing. Check for a current fire restriction before you go.
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