Dry Lake Campground

For those of us in North Dakota seeking a tranquil escape into nature, Dry Lake Campground in Penn, ND, offers a unique and often peaceful setting. While its name might suggest otherwise, and water levels can vary, this campground provides a distinctive experience for campers and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate quiet reflection and water-based activities like kayaking and canoeing. It's a place where the beauty of North Dakota's landscape truly shines, offering a break from the hustle and bustle without venturing too far from home. This overview aims to provide our fellow North Dakotans with a comprehensive and factual look at what Dry Lake Campground has to offer, helping you plan your next local adventure.

Dry Lake Campground is not your typical bustling resort-style camping destination. Instead, it caters to those who appreciate a more subdued and natural environment. Its appeal often lies in its serenity and the direct access it provides to the water, albeit with considerations for fluctuating lake levels. As a local option, it presents an opportunity to explore a different facet of North Dakota's abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to fish, paddle, or simply unwind by the water, understanding the unique characteristics of Dry Lake Campground is key to a successful and enjoyable visit. We'll delve into its location, available services, key features, and how to get in touch, ensuring you have all the necessary information to determine if this hidden gem is the right fit for your next North Dakota camping trip.

Dry Lake Campground is conveniently located at 7676 55th St NE, Penn, ND 58362, USA. This address places it within reach for many North Dakotans, particularly those in the eastern and central parts of the state. Penn, while a smaller community, offers a sense of rural tranquility that is often sought after by campers looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The specific address makes it straightforward to navigate to using GPS or mapping applications, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.

Accessibility to the campground itself is generally good, with proximity to main roads that connect to larger population centers in North Dakota. However, it's crucial for visitors to be aware of the unique characteristics of Dry Lake, particularly regarding water levels. As recent customer reviews indicate, the water level can be significantly low, impacting boat launch capabilities. For instance, as of 2022, the water was very low, making the boat launch unsuitable for larger vessels and limiting water access to kayaks and canoes only. This information is vital for planning, especially if your primary activity involves motorized boating. Despite these fluctuations, the campground remains accessible for those seeking a peaceful lakeside experience with smaller, hand-launched watercraft. Parking is available near the ramp, which is a convenient feature for those bringing their kayaks or canoes. Understanding these specific accessibility nuances ensures that visitors arrive prepared and can fully enjoy what Dry Lake Campground has to offer, adapting their activities to the current conditions of this unique North Dakota location.

Dry Lake Campground, while known for its natural setting and peace, offers specific services primarily related to water access and basic camping infrastructure. It's important for visitors to understand these offerings to manage expectations and plan their trip accordingly. Based on available information and customer feedback, here are the key services you can expect:

• Boat Ramp Access: When water levels permit, a boat ramp is available for launching vessels. Historically, it opens around the first weekend of May.
• Boat Launch Fee: There is a cost associated with launching a boat, specifically $20 per boat, which helps in the maintenance of the ramp and surrounding areas.
• Parking Near the Ramp: Convenient parking is provided in the vicinity of the boat ramp, making it easier for users to prepare their boats or watercraft.
• Designated Watercraft Access: Even when water levels are low and large boat launches are not feasible, the area typically remains suitable for launching kayaks and canoes, ensuring continued water recreation opportunities for appropriate vessels.
• Peaceful Environment: A consistent "service" offered by Dry Lake Campground is its serene and quiet atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape from everyday noise.

It's important to note that, as a more rustic campground focusing on natural experiences, visitors should anticipate bringing most of their own provisions and be prepared for a less amenity-rich environment compared to highly developed campgrounds or RV parks. The focus here is truly on the natural beauty and the opportunity for quiet outdoor activities.

Dry Lake Campground in Penn, ND, possesses distinct features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for specific types of outdoor enthusiasts in North Dakota. Its charm lies in its simplicity and the unique characteristics of the lake itself. Here are the main highlights:

• Peaceful and Tranquil Environment: This is arguably the biggest draw. Visitors consistently describe Dry Lake Campground as a peaceful location, ideal for relaxation and escaping noise. For those seeking quiet solitude or a calm family outing, this is a significant advantage.
• Variable Water Levels for Unique Experiences: The fluctuating water levels, while a consideration for large boats, create a dynamic environment. When water is low, it shifts the focus to more intimate watercraft like kayaks and canoes, offering a different kind of exploration. This adaptability makes each visit potentially unique.
• Dedicated Boat Launch (when feasible): For much of the open season, a boat ramp is available. The $20 launch fee helps maintain this access, which is crucial for those planning to bring their boats.
• Convenient Parking: The presence of parking near the ramp simplifies the logistics of bringing and launching watercraft, a small but important detail for a smooth experience.
• Ideal for Kayaking and Canoeing: Even in low water conditions, the campground remains excellent for smaller, hand-launched vessels. This makes it a prime spot for paddle sports enthusiasts looking for calm waters.
• Seasonally Busy Periods: The campground experiences its peak activity from the third weekend of May through the Fourth of July. This indicates a period when the lake is popular, suggesting good conditions and a more vibrant atmosphere during those times.
• Proximity to Penn, ND: Being located near Penn offers a quiet, rural setting while still being relatively accessible from other parts of North Dakota.

These features highlight that Dry Lake Campground is not just a place to stay, but a destination that offers a particular kind of North Dakota outdoor experience, emphasizing peace and a connection with the dynamic natural environment.

For those planning a visit to Dry Lake Campground or seeking more information, here is the direct contact information:

• Address: 7676 55th St NE, Penn, ND 58362, USA
• Phone: (701) 393-4449
• Mobile Phone: +1 701-393-4449

We highly recommend contacting the campground directly using the provided phone numbers before your visit. Given the variable water levels and the specific conditions that can affect boat launching, a quick call can confirm the current status of the lake and any operational details. This will ensure you are fully prepared and can make the most of your trip to this unique North Dakota camping destination. Speaking with the management can also provide valuable insights into the best times to visit for your preferred activities, especially if you plan to use the boat ramp.

In conclusion, Dry Lake Campground in Penn, North Dakota, is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals who value a peaceful, nature-focused camping experience. For North Dakotans accustomed to the varied landscapes and weather patterns of our state, the adaptability of Dry Lake, even with its fluctuating water levels, presents a unique appeal. It’s not about finding a bustling resort, but rather a quiet retreat where you can truly unwind and connect with the natural world around you.

Its primary suitability lies in its serene atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking quiet reflection, a peaceful fishing trip, or an unhurried kayaking adventure. The direct access to the water, whether for larger boats during high water or for kayaks and canoes when levels are low, ensures that water-based recreation remains a core offering. For residents of North Dakota, who often appreciate the tranquility of our open spaces, Dry Lake Campground provides an accessible and authentic escape. It’s a place where you can launch your canoe, cast a line, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of a North Dakota evening, making it an ideal choice for a local getaway that truly resonates with the spirit of our state.

Dry Lake Campground

7676 55th St NE, Penn, ND 58362, USA