Turtle River State Park, constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is a picturesque park located in a wooded valley along the meandering Turtle River in North Dakota. It offers a variety of year-round recreational activities, including camping, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and sledding. The park is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with over 12 miles of trails through forested hills and along the river. It also features amenities for group events and family gatherings, like the spacious Woodland Lodge and Chalet/Warming House, making it perfect for weddings, reunions, and other group activities.
Does Turtle River State Park offer RV Camping?
Yes, Turtle River State Park in North Dakota offers RV camping. The park features a family-friendly campground with 125 sites, including amenities such as electrical hookups and an RV dump station. Campsites are available year-round, and the park includes a variety of recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and mountain biking.
Turtle River State Park Contact Details
- Address: 3084 Park Ave NE, Arvilla, ND 58214, United States
- Phone: 701-795-3180
- Website: http://www.parkrec.nd.gov/parks/trsp/trsp.html
Turtle River State Park RV Sites and Rates
Types of Sites
- Modern Campsites: These come with electricity and water. There are 67 such sites available.
- Modern Group Campsites: Ideal for multiple units on one site. The park offers 3 of these sites.
- Primitive Campsites: For a more traditional camping experience, there are 26 primitive sites.
- Group Camps: These have electricity, providing a mix of modern convenience and natural experience.
- Rental Units: The park offers 12 cabins or cottages, including Elm Cabins (2 Units) and Woodland Duplex Cabins (10 Units).
Rates
- Modern and Group Campsites: Rates range from $25 to $30 per night.
- Primitive Campsites: Available at $15 per night.
- Rental Units: Daily rates for cabins and cottages range from $12 to $60, depending on the type and amenities.
- Lodging: Woodland Cabins are priced from $70 to $85 per night, while the Cottonwood Cabin ranges from $135 to $150 per night.
The rates can change overtime. Always check updated rates before making reservations.
Discounts
- The park offers discounts for seniors, disabled veterans, and POWs.
Booking and Check-in Information
- Reservations can be made online or by calling 800-807-4723 or 701-795-3180
- Check-in is at 4:00 pm on the day of reservation, and checkout is at 3:00 pm on the last day of the reservation.
Turtle River State Park Campground Map
Turtle River State Park Amenities for RV Camping
- Electrical Hookups: The park provides electrical hookups at its campsites, ensuring RV campers can access power for their vehicles and equipment.
- Water Hookups: Access to water hookups is available, which is essential for drinking, cooking, and cleaning needs during your stay.
- Sewer Hookups: The park offers sewer hookups for added convenience, making waste disposal easier for RV campers.
- Showers and Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained shower and restroom facilities are available, offering comfort and hygiene for campers.
- Pet-Friendly: Turtle River State Park is pet-friendly, allowing campers to bring their furry friends along. However, it’s important to check with the park regarding specific pet rules.
- Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV campers, making it easier to manage waste during your stay.
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available, providing connectivity for campers during their stay.
- Year-Round Access: The park is open year-round, offering different recreational activities depending on the season.
Things to do Inside Turtle River State Park
Fishing
The Turtle River, stocked with rainbow trout, is a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts. The park provides traditional and fly fishing opportunities, making it a great place for both experienced anglers and beginners. Fishing gear can be borrowed from the park office, which is especially convenient for kids and those new to the sport.
Camping
The park offers a range of camping experiences, from modern campsites with electricity, water, and sewer hookups to more rustic and primitive tent camping areas. The Woodland Cabins, available for rent, provide a more comfortable stay with amenities like electricity, indoor bathrooms, and showers.
Hiking and Mountain Biking
With over 10 miles of trails, the park is ideal for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. These trails traverse through forested areas and along the river, offering scenic views and varying levels of difficulty for all skill levels.
Sledding and Cross-Country Skiing
During winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring a sledding hill and maintained cross-country ski trails. The park’s warming chalet is a cozy retreat for visitors to warm up between their winter activities.
Wildlife Watching
The park’s diverse environment makes it a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, making it an excellent location for bird watching and nature observation.
Event Hosting
Turtle River State Park is equipped to host various events, including weddings, family reunions, and group picnics. Facilities like the Woodland Lodge, Chalet Meeting Room, and CCC Memorial Shelter provide ideal settings for such gatherings.
Picnicking
The park offers picnic shelters and day-use areas perfect for a family outing. These areas are equipped with necessary amenities and offer picturesque views, making them ideal for a relaxing day in nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Turtle River State Park?
Turtle River State Park was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). It is located in a scenic wooded valley along the Turtle River in North Dakota. The park was developed as part of the New Deal programs under President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The CCC’s projects included building bridges, roads, footpaths, and various stone and log buildings, thereby shaping the park’s infrastructure and recreational facilities.
Are dogs allowed inside Turtle River State Park?
Yes, dogs are allowed in Turtle River State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash, and pet owners must adhere to park rules regarding pet behavior and waste management. The park also features areas where dogs can enjoy the outdoors, but it’s important to follow all guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in the park.
What are the reviews for Turtle River State Park?
Turtle River State Park reviews are generally positive, highlighting its natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and various activities. Visitors often praise the park’s peaceful environment, clean and spacious campsites, and well-kept trails for hiking and biking. The park’s family-friendly atmosphere, including programs for kids and the friendly staff, are frequently mentioned as highlights. On the other hand, some reviews mention the lack of certain amenities, like swimming areas, and occasional issues with wildlife or maintenance. Overall, most visitors enjoy their time at the park, finding it a relaxing and enjoyable place for outdoor activities.
Is there an entrance fee for Turtle River State Park?
Turtle River State Park charges an entrance fee for vehicles. The daily vehicle entrance fee is $7. Annual permits are also available: a single vehicle annual permit costs $35, and a family permit is $55. Senior citizens aged 65 and older who are North Dakota residents can get an annual entrance permit for $28. These permits can be purchased online or via the park’s call center. Additionally, disabled veterans and prisoners of war from North Dakota are eligible for specific permit benefits.