Natural Resources Department

For Minnesota residents looking for a comfortable, convenient, and well-equipped place to set up camp in the northwest corner of the state, the **Thief River Falls Tourist Park** is an excellent choice. This facility, managed in part by the city's Natural Resources Department, provides a blend of peaceful riverside scenery and easy access to urban amenities. It is strategically located, offering a refreshing stopping point for those traveling through the region or an ideal base camp for exploring the nearby prairie and wildlife areas, such as the **Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge**.

The Tourist Park is situated right on the banks of the **lower Red Lake River**, overlooking the scenic **Hartz Park**. It is a medium-sized campground with approximately 72 sites, catering effectively to both RV users who need full hookups and those who prefer a more primitive tenting experience. The park is highly regarded for its accessibility and cleanliness, featuring a handicapped accessible bathhouse with free showers and flush toilets. Its location within the city limits also provides the unique advantage of reliable connectivity with **free Wi-Fi** access and good cellular reception, a convenience often hard to find in more remote Minnesota state parks. This city campground is a friendly, functional, and scenic asset to the Thief River Falls community, ensuring a pleasant stay for all Minnesota campers.

The Thief River Falls Tourist Park is exceptionally easy to locate and access, sitting on the south side of the city, perfectly positioned for travelers utilizing Highway 32.

• **Address:** The main campground entrance is typically referenced at the intersection of **Highway 32 South and Oakland Park Road**, Thief River Falls, MN 56701. (Note: The provided address, 246 125th Ave NE, may relate to the city's administrative or maintenance facility, but the campground is known as the Tourist Park.)
• **Scenic View:** The park boasts an attractive setting overlooking the **lower Red Lake River** and adjacent **Hartz Park**.
• **Urban Proximity:** Its location within the city limits means campers are within walking distance or a short drive of **downtown shopping, restaurants, and local services**, a key benefit over remote campgrounds.
• **Accessibility Features:** The park is committed to accessibility, featuring:
  • **Wheelchair accessible entrance** at the main bathhouse.
  • **Wheelchair accessible parking lot** for easy access to central facilities.
  • A **handicapped accessible bathhouse** with free showers and flush toilets.

The Thief River Falls Tourist Park is designed to offer a comprehensive range of amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for virtually all types of campers.

• Campsites: The park offers approximately 72 sites, categorized as:
  • **Full Hookup Sites:** Around 16 sites offering electricity (50/30-amp), water, and sewer connections.
  • **Electric Sites:** Around 56 sites offering electric hookups, some with cable TV access.
  • **Primitive Camping:** Unlimited areas are available for tenting or primitive camping.
• Connectivity: **Free Wi-Fi** service is available throughout the park, and the in-town location ensures reliable cellular reception (T-Mobile 5G has been verified).
• Sanitary Facilities: A central **bathhouse** provides **free hot showers** and **flush toilets**, which are maintained and handicapped accessible.
• Waste Disposal: A convenient **dump station** is accessible across Oakland Park Road for RV sanitary waste disposal.
• Site Amenities: Sites include fire rings for campfires and a shelter overlooking Hartz Park for **picnics and family gatherings**. Firewood can be purchased on-site (must be MDA certified).
• Parking: Two motor vehicles are allowed per campsite, and **on-site parking** is available.
• Attendant/Host: A **campground host** is typically available on-site part-time from mid-May to mid-September to assist campers and collect fees.

The Tourist Park's greatest features lie in its recreational opportunities, convenience, and status as a tranquil city oasis.

• **Riverside Environment:** The scenic overlook of the **lower Red Lake River** provides a tranquil backdrop for camping, often with opportunities for short walks and enjoying the natural environment adjacent to the city.
• **Hartz Park Access:** Direct access to **Hartz Park** includes recreational areas, green spaces, and walking paths for exercise and relaxation.
• **Peder Engelstad Pioneer Village:** The park is conveniently located near the entrance to the Pioneer Village, offering a nearby **historical and cultural attraction** for guests.
• **Family-Friendly Amenities:** The park is considered family-friendly, with a **playground** and nearby opportunities for **biking** and other low-impact recreation.
• **Extended Season:** The Tourist Park typically operates from approximately **May 1st to November 1st**, allowing for camping during the beautiful Minnesota fall season.
• **High Utility/Value:** Offering **full hookups** and **free Wi-Fi** at competitive city rates represents excellent value for money in the Northwest Minnesota region.
• **Safety and Security:** The facility is well-monitored, with a presence of camp hosts and clear guidelines, ensuring a secure environment for all visitors.

For booking, rate information, and general inquiries, Minnesota users should contact the management associated with the Thief River Falls Tourist Park.

Primary Address (Campground): Hwy 32 South & Oakland Park Rd, Thief River Falls, MN 56701, USA

Contact Phone: (218) 681-0946 (Often listed as the main administrative contact)

**Reservations:** Reservations can be made online through the park’s designated booking site (typically available starting March 1st each year).

**Note:** Seasonal rates and long-term pricing (e.g., weekly or seasonal full hookup rates) are available, so campers interested in extended stays should inquire directly.

The Thief River Falls Tourist Park is undeniably worth choosing for Minnesota campers, particularly **RV travelers and families**, who require a high degree of convenience and reliable utility hookups without sacrificing a pleasant outdoor atmosphere.

The strongest reason to choose this park is the **perfect balance between nature and civilization**. You get a scenic, green, riverside setting with the comforts of being close to town, allowing for easy access to shopping and dining after a day of hiking or driving. The provision of **16 full hookup sites (50-amp available)**, **free Wi-Fi**, and a clean, accessible bathhouse distinguishes it from many remote state parks. This reliability makes it an ideal stop for travelers crossing the region (e.g., heading toward the Canadian border or coming from North Dakota). Finally, the park’s emphasis on accessibility, featuring a handicapped-accessible bathhouse, ensures that all members of the Minnesota community can comfortably enjoy the beautiful outdoors. If you value a clean site, modern hookups, and a great location for regional touring, the Thief River Falls Tourist Park is the superior choice.

Natural Resources Department

246 125th Ave NE, Thief River Falls, MN 56701, USA