Mel Rieman Rec
Ashtabula Lake
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.
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.
Need to Know
- Firewood restrictions are in place; because of the potential to carry invasive insects, absolutely no outside firewood is allowed
- Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
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.
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.
Contact Information
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2630 114TH AVE SE VALLEY CITY ND 58072
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 701-845-2970
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
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.
Available Campsites
- Site 26, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Walk To
- Site 17, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 18, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 20, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 13, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 19, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 09, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 07, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 24, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Walk To
- Site 23, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Walk To
- Site 28, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Group Shelter Electric
- Site 11, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 27, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Walk To
- Site 08, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 15, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 03, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 12, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 25, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Walk To
- Site 21, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Tent Only Nonelectric
- Site 02, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 10, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 06, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 01, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 05, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 22, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Walk To
- Site 04, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 16, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
- Site 14, Loop MEL RIEMAN REC AREA, Type Standard Electric
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