Mel Rieman Rec

About

Mel Rieman Campground and Recreation Area is a 70-acre facility operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the shoreline of Lake Ashtabula in Barnes County, North Dakota. The campground offers 27 campsites including 15 sites with 30-amp electric hookups, walk-to tent sites, and a group shelter. Facilities include flush toilets, showers, and potable water. Sites accommodate RVs up to 77 feet on pull-through configurations. Lake Ashtabula was created by the Baldhill Dam on the Sheyenne River in 1944 and is known for excellent fishing. The name "Ashtabula" is a Native American word meaning "Fish River," and the lake lives up to its name with populations of walleye, northern pike, white bass, yellow perch, and black bullhead. Seven boat ramps, two accessible fishing piers, and four fish cleaning stations serve anglers around the lake. The adjacent day-use area features a visitor center, playgrounds, picnic facilities, concessions, and swimming access. Nearly 3,000 acres of surrounding land managed by the Corps provides wildlife viewing, birding, hiking, and hunting opportunities. The 63-mile Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway and North Country National Scenic Trail are accessible within a short drive.

Directions

From Interstate 94, take exit 292 to Valley City. Follow the signs through Valley City and turn left onto County Road 19. Travel 10 miles to the campground.