Red River State Recreation Area
RV Guide
Introduction
Once you visit Red River State Recreation Area, you will find that place is an excellent RV camping destination! Located in the urban area of East Grand Forks, Minnesota, the state park is part of the Greater Grand Forks Greenway, nestled against the Red Lake River, the natural state line that divides Minnesota and North Dakota. After major flooding in 1997, this 1,200-acre state park is the creation of a grassroots effort after a former neighborhood that was lost due to its location in a floodplain. Its unique location provides access to restaurants and shops, making it a popular place to camp.
There are many shaded sites and with 109 full-hookup RV spots at the campground to choose from. RV visitors will find both pull-through and back-in parking. With access to Minnesota's beautiful Red River, this state park is a great place to walk or ride your bike over the paved Greenway Trail. You will find the Red River State Recreation Area is a great combination of natural and urban making it a wonderful getaway spot. From picnicking by the river, relaxing while fishing or toasting marshmallows by the campfire, you won’t ever forget this trip and wished you had booked a longer stay. What are you waiting for? Get here today!
RV Rentals in Red River State Recreation Area
Transportation
Driving
Pack your campervan and head out to East Grand Forks, Minnesota for your next camping adventure. Situated a few miles from the Riverwalk Center Mall, this state park is a great place to stop for a visit while you’re traveling on US 2. Red River State Recreation Area is centrally located, providing a great place for visitors to access the upper Red River area. Visitors will find that the roads are easy to navigate as the campground is a former neighborhood devastated during the 1997 floods. Be on the lookout for bikers and runners as the Greenway Trail is popular for campers and locals.
Parking
Once that you entered the state park, follow the park flags to arrive at the Red River State Recreation Area office. The roads to access the campground are paved while the camping sites themselves are gravel. Most sites are long and provide pull-through or back-in parking but bring some blocking for leveling. With the wide open spaces between sites and camping next to the Red River, your next RV experience will be one you won’t forget. Be advised that flooding does occur during heavy rains. The Sherlock Park Campground is open for reservations starting in May until the fall depending on the weather.
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Red River State Recreation Area
Campsites in Red River State Recreation Area
Reservations camping
Sherlock Park Campground
Relax under the shade as you camp in your camping trailer at this well-maintained, spacious, full-service campground. Nestled against the Red River, take advantage of the gorgeous views at this popular state park in an urban setting. With 109 RV spots to select from, five of which that are ADA-accessible, this former neigh large sites provide full hookups and many spots have pull-through parking. The campground offers hot showers, flush and vault toilets, potable water, and a dump station for visitors. All sites provide fire rings, picnic tables, and Wi-Fi.
You will find that camping here is a dream and due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended to secure the best spots. Great for fishing, boating, and hiking, you’re options for outdoor adventures are endless. Safe for the whole family, there is even a playground for children to enjoy during their stay. The park is located in a floodplain so you may experience some flooding during a major rain storm. Camping is only open during the spring, summer, and fall starting in May, weather permitting to enjoy this quiet and serene state park.
Seasonal activities in Red River State Recreation Area
Off-Season
Birding
Once you arrive at Red River State Recreation Area, set-up your campervan or camping trailer at the campsite and get ready to see some amazing birds during your stay. With more than 250 species that travel through the area, you will want to pack your binoculars and camera. Enjoy spotting bald eagles, owls, Canada geese, great blue herons and an array of songbirds. Don’t forget to stop by the park office to pick up your birding kit!
Hiking the Greenway Trail
Grab your hiking boots out of the rig and explore the area’s Greenway Trail while you camp at the Red River State Recreation Area. The 20 miles of multi-trails will provide amazing views of Minnesota's beautiful Red River. This paved trail along the Greenway is great for campers of all skill levels. You will want to pack water, sunscreen, and a hat before you go out exploring. An excellent way to spend part of your trip at Red River State Recreation Area, make sure to stop by the visitor center to grab a trail map.
Fishing
Cast your cares away along the Red River. The Shoreline Fishing Area is conveniently located from the parking lot and the River Heights Trailhead restrooms after walking down a paved path to the river's edge. Relax as you cast a line to catch Channel Catfish for your next meal over the campfire. Great for anglers of all ages, this pastime is a great way to find a park bench, relax and view the scenic, peaceful waters of the Red River during your next camping adventure.
In-Season
Picnicking
Make memories that will last a lifetime and enjoy a great meal after a fun day out in the sun! Red River State Recreation Area offers several picnic shelters at the River Heights Trailhead. The shady, grassy area along the bank of the Red River provides the ideal picnic space. Great for large groups and family reunions, you can reserve the shelters in advance by contacting the Red River State Recreation Area. Grab your picnic basket full of your favorite foods out of the rig- the options are endless!
Getting Out On The Water
You will find that while camping in your campervan at Red River State Recreation Area that accessing the river is a breeze. Forming the natural state dividing line between Minnesota and North Dakota, the river provides you with endless options. If you are more adventurous during your vacation, paddle out in a kayak or canoe to explore all the lake has to offer. With tranquil waters and easy access from the campground to the river, you'll have a great time out on the water.
Wild Hogs Grand Forks Marathon
Get outside and participate in a run of a lifetime during your RV camping trip at the Red River State Recreation Area! A Boston Marathon qualifier, this full-marathon course runs right through the state park. Be a part of the action while the racers challenge themselves on this tough course. This popular race is held in the fall and you will want to reserve your RV camping spot early for this fun-filled event. Family-friendly, plan on participating in all the fun during the weekend.
