Barnes County Park Clausen Springs Recreation Area

Welcome to Barnes County Park: Clausen Springs Recreation Area

Nestled in the heart of scenic Barnes County, North Dakota, Clausen Springs Recreation Area offers an inviting retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With its stunning 545-acre wildlife management area and the picturesque Clausen Springs Lake, this park is the perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Camping Options

Clausen Springs provides a variety of camping accommodations to suit different preferences:

Primitive Campsites: $20 per night
Campsites with Electrical Hookups: $25 per night
Shelter Reservations: $35 per day (reservable online)

Each campsite allows for a maximum of one unit per site, which can include either one RV or camper plus one tent or up to two tents. Please note that a maximum of 8 people is allowed per site.

Amenities and Features

The park is equipped with essential amenities to enhance your camping experience:

Shower House: Clean and modern facilities for visitors
Rural Water Supply: Accessible potable water for all campers
Playground Equipment: Fun and safe playground for children
Ball Diamond: Perfect for recreational games with family and friends
Modern Privies: Four concrete privies scattered throughout the park
Kayak Launch Dock: Accessible dock for canoeists and kayakers
Horseshoe Pit: Enjoy some classic outdoor fun

Activities and Attractions

Clausen Springs isn’t just about camping – it offers a wealth of activities to engage visitors:

Swimming Area: A designated area for swimming, although there is no lifeguard on duty.
Fishing: Accessible fishing dock and boat ramp (limited to non-motorized or electric motors only).
North Country National Scenic Trail: Follow this 4,800-mile trail that meanders along the northern boundary of the park.
Scenic Loop Trail: A beautiful 2-mile loop around the lake for walking and enjoying breathtaking scenery.

Keeping in mind the park’s commitment to preserving nature, activities such as metal detecting, snowmobiling, and off-road motorcycling are prohibited. Please be aware that fireworks are not allowed within the park.

Park Accessibility

The Clausen Springs Recreation Area is conveniently located just 4.5 miles west and 1.5 miles south of Kathryn, North Dakota, and is easily accessible from ND Highway 1. The campground is open from May 1 to October 31, making it a popular destination during the warmer months.

Reservations and Regulations

Campsites 1-12, 29-31, and 55 can be reserved online for your convenience. A dump station is available above the main camping area for all visitors. The park is managed by the Barnes County Park Board, which oversees the daily operations with the help of part-time staff and campground hosts.

Whether you are seeking a relaxing weekend getaway or an adventure-filled trip, Clausen Springs Recreation Area is poised to create lasting memories amid the natural beauty of North Dakota. Pack your gear and immerse yourself in the tranquility that this campground has to offer!