Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground on the NCT

Nestled within the expansive Lonetree Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in central North Dakota, the Faul Campground on the North Country Trail (NCT) offers a truly unique and refreshing escape for those seeking a connection with nature. For North Dakotans, this primitive campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to unspoiled wilderness, abundant wildlife, and the quiet solitude that can be hard to find in our increasingly busy world. If you're looking to unplug and experience the beauty of our state's natural landscapes, Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground is a destination worth exploring.

The Lonetree WMA itself is a significant conservation area, spanning nearly 33,000 acres. Originally acquired by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation as part of the Garrison Diversion Irrigation Project, it is now managed by the North Dakota Game and Fish Department with a dual purpose: to enhance wildlife habitat and to provide public access for a wide range of recreational activities. Faul Campground embodies this spirit of accessibility, offering a rustic yet rewarding experience for campers. It's a place where the stars shine brighter, and the sounds of nature provide the perfect soundtrack to your outdoor adventure.

Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground is situated in Hamberg, North Dakota, a location that places it conveniently in the heart of our state's picturesque central region. While it offers a feeling of being "out off the beaten path," as one visitor described, it remains accessible for those willing to venture a bit off the main routes. Specifically, the Lonetree Wildlife Management Area is located approximately 5 miles south of Harvey, North Dakota, on Highway 3, and then about 2 miles west. This relatively easy drive from nearby towns makes it a feasible weekend getaway or even a quick overnight trip for many North Dakotans.

The campground's direct connection to the North Country Trail is a significant advantage for hikers, trail runners, and even mountain bikers or horseback riders. The NCT, a national scenic trail, offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of the WMA on foot or by other non-motorized means. While the trail is not always mowed, it is marked with yellow Carsonite posts, guiding visitors through native grasslands, past tree plantings, and alongside wetlands. This direct trail access means you can literally step out of your tent and onto miles of pristine North Dakota wilderness.

Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground offers a primitive camping experience, which for many, is precisely its charm. It provides the essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay while encouraging a deeper connection with the natural environment. Based on visitor reviews and public information, the services available include:

• Pit toilet: While one reviewer noted a less-than-ideal experience with the toilet, it is an available facility for campers. Many experienced campers often bring their own portable setups for added comfort in primitive settings.
• Hand pump water: A hand pump provides access to water, which visitors have found to be "extremely handy." This is a valuable resource for cooking, cleaning, and staying hydrated during your stay.
• Tent sites: The campground is primarily designed for tent camping, offering designated spots for setting up your campsite.
• Fire rings: For those quintessential campfire experiences, fire rings are typically provided at campsites, allowing for safe and enjoyable fires (always check for local fire restrictions before lighting a fire).

The appeal of Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground extends beyond its basic amenities. Its true highlights lie in the immersive outdoor experience it provides, making it a favorite for those who appreciate tranquility and wildlife.

• Seclusion and Solitude: As highlighted by a past visitor, you are "most likely you will be the only one for miles around." This sense of seclusion is a major draw for individuals and groups seeking a peaceful escape from crowded areas. It’s perfect for those who crave quiet contemplation or uninterrupted quality time with loved ones.
• North Country Trail Access: Directly on the NCT, the campground serves as an ideal base for exploring a significant segment of this national scenic trail. The NCT within Lonetree WMA offers gentle, mowed prairie grass trails, traversing mostly virgin prairie.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The Lonetree WMA is renowned for its diverse wildlife. Visitors have the opportunity to spot white-tailed deer, moose, sharp-tailed grouse, ring-necked pheasant, gray partridge, and various waterfowl including Canada geese, snow geese, mallards, and teal. Birdwatchers will find this area particularly rewarding. The WMA's efforts in restoring native grasses, forbs, and dense nesting cover contribute to this rich biodiversity.
• Native Prairie and Diverse Ecosystems: The area boasts impressive stretches of native prairie, offering glimpses of what North Dakota's landscape was like historically. You'll encounter a variety of native grasses like Western wheatgrass, green needle grass, blue grama, big bluestem, and little bluestem, alongside wildflowers such as the purple coneflower. Boardwalks through wetlands also add to the scenic diversity.
• Winter Recreation Opportunities: Beyond summer camping, the Lonetree WMA and its trails, including sections of the NCT, are open for winter activities such as snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and snowmobiling, offering year-round recreational possibilities.
• Tree Plantings for Winter Cover: The WMA features extensive tree plantings designed to provide permanent winter cover for wildlife, including chokecherry, buffaloberry, green ash, spruce, and cottonwood. These plantings not only support wildlife but also add to the scenic beauty of the area.

For more detailed information about Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground and the Lonetree Wildlife Management Area, you can reach out to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, who manage the area.

Address: Hamberg, ND 58341, USA (This is the general location for the campground within the WMA)

For specific inquiries about the Lonetree WMA or camping conditions, it's advisable to contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department directly. Their main contact information for the Lonetree WMA is:

• Phone: (701) 324-2211

For residents of North Dakota, Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground on the NCT offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the state's natural heritage. It stands as a testament to the wild beauty that defines our region, providing a genuine and unfussy outdoor experience. If you're a local seeking a break from the everyday, this campground delivers the perfect blend of accessibility and authentic wilderness.

Its primitive nature means you won't find bustling crowds or the distractions of modern amenities, allowing for a truly immersive experience in North Dakota's vast and beautiful landscapes. Whether you're an avid hiker eager to tackle a section of the North Country Trail, a wildlife enthusiast hoping to catch a glimpse of a moose or a variety of bird species, or simply someone looking to spend a quiet night under a blanket of stars, Faul Campground provides the ideal setting. The availability of a hand pump for water is a practical convenience, and the sheer solitude ensures a peaceful retreat.

In a state known for its wide-open spaces, Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground embodies the very essence of North Dakota's outdoor spirit. It encourages self-reliance, appreciation for nature, and provides a memorable backdrop for creating lasting memories with family and friends, or simply enjoying your own company in the great outdoors. For an authentic North Dakota camping adventure that's truly off the grid, make Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground your next destination.

Lonetree WMA - Faul Campground on the NCT

Hamberg, ND 58341, USA