Lake Ashtabula

Lake Ashtabula's East Ashtabula Crossing provides convenient access to this scenic reservoir in eastern North Dakota, located near Karnak in Griggs County. This is one of seven maintained boat launching ramps around the lake, offering reliable access for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. The ramp is situated mid-lake on the west side at the west end of the 118th Avenue SE Bridge. Note that some gravel road travel may be required to reach the launch, so plan accordingly during wet conditions.

The area is part of the larger East Ashtabula Crossing Campground facility, which sits on 12 developed acres adjacent to the lake. Lake Ashtabula was created by Baldhill Dam on the Sheyenne River in 1944 and is situated in one of the region's most scenic river valleys. The site offers amenities including picnic facilities, drinking water, and restroom access. For overnight stays, the campground is reservable; call 701-845-2970 for more information. The lake supports a range of water activities including fishing, swimming, and boating.

**Directions:** From Valley City, take I-94 exit 292, follow signs through town, then head north on County Road 21 for 15 miles.

Overview
The East Ashtabula Crossing Campground is located on 12 developed acres adjacent to Lake Ashtabula in eastern North Dakota. It is one of the most popular campgrounds in the area.

Lake Ashtabula was created by the construction of the Baldhill Dam on the Sheyenne River in 1944, and is situated in one of the most scenic river valleys in the region, offering visitors a wide range of...

Overview
The East Ashtabula Crossing Campground is located on 12 developed acres adjacent to Lake Ashtabula in eastern North Dakota. It is one of the most popular campgrounds in the area.

Lake Ashtabula was created by the construction of the Baldhill Dam on the Sheyenne River in 1944, and is situated in one of the most scenic river valleys in the region, offering visitors a wide range of recreation opportunities year-round.
Summer activities include fishing, boating, swimming and picnicking, while Ice fishing and cross-country skiing are popular during winter months.Recreation
The name "Ashtabula" is a Native American word meaning "Fish River," which suits the lake's fish population; popular species include walleye, northern pike, white bass, yellow perch and black bullhead. With seven boat ramps, three accessible fishing piers and four automated fish cleaning stations, the lake is very convenient for anglers.

Nearly 3,000 acres of land around the lake is managed as wildlife habitat by the Corps of Engineers and open to the public for wildlife viewing, birding, hiking and hunting. Hunters and anglers should contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department for seasons, restrictions and licenses; fishing licenses and bait may be purchased from concessionaires around the lake.

Campers can also drive the 63-mile Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway and access nearly 35 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail nearby. Facilities
East Ashtabula Crossing has 38 campsites, 32 of which offer electric hookups. The facility also features a swimming beach, drinking water, flush toilets, a playground and a picnic shelter.
Within walking distance campers will find a dump station, fishing pier, boat ramp, restaurant and hiking trails. The nearest town is Valley City, less than 15 miles away.Natural Features
The campground is on a wooded hillside offering shade for most sites. It lies amidst the 'prairie potholes' region of glacially-carved lakes in North Dakota.
Spring and fall bring bountiful views of migratory water birds to Lake Ashtabula, including the unique white pelican, which can be seen in large flocks during summer.
The lake region also provides habitat for white-tailed deer, sharptail grouse, wild turkey and gray partridge.

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