FAMILY
words by ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON cabin photography by JON-MICHAEL SHERMAN
Photos submitted by Sheyenne Oaks Campground and RV Park ↔
a relaxing RETREAT sheyenne oaks offers a quiet oasis just outside of Fargo-Moorhead
F
or a romantic weekend in the country or an outdoor adventure in one of North Dakota’s most inspiring settings, look to Sheyenne Oakes Campground and RV Park. This quiet respite from the stresses of modern life sits just 45 minutes southwest of Fargo, just south of Leonard, North Dakota.
The facility, operated by RON AND JODI HANSEN, offers a wide range of options and amenities for those who want to unplug and relax in nature, from primitive camping sites tucked among 116 acres of trees and rolling prairie to 20 RV sites with sewer, water and electric hook-ups. Camping and RV sites include a fire ring and picnic table for dining al fresco and relaxing under the stars. There’s a comfortable pine-walled shower house, coin laundry and a small store that offers ice, firewood and other necessities on site, and corrals for folks who bring their horses along to explore the nearby trails.
Andrew's Cabin
Families with young children should also stop by the working ranch, located just across County Road 23. You’ll find chickens, piglets, cattle from the family’s herd and a flock of more than a thousand sheep. A nearby farm stand sells eggs, meat and other products, so just open up the freezer or fridge and grab what you need. In an example of true North Dakota hospitality, the farm stand (and everything else in the campground) operates on the honor system.
Those who crave a few more creature comforts along with indoor plumbing and electricity (or a kitchen to cook their purchases in) will love the house and cabins available on Sheyenne Oaks’ wooded grounds. Hopewell House is a charming farmhouse that sleeps 10 and includes a full kitchen, which makes it a popular gathering place for groups, retreats and reunions. Andrew’s Cabin pays homage to the first white settler in the region. He built a cabin in 1879 just down the road from this quaint log cabin that the Hansens constructed in 2012. It’s fully furnished and boasts a grill on the front porch and a hot tub in the back. It sleeps six.
Bertha's Cabin 60
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