The National Park Service (NPS) has awarded over $900,000 to the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department to upgrade water and electrical services at Fort Ransom State Park.
The funding, totaling $921,663.50, comes from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and will renovate 23 campsites by enhancing their electrical capacity from 30 to 50 amperes.
In addition, water hydrants will be installed at these campsites, offering improved amenities for visitors. This investment is part of a broader effort to enhance outdoor recreation in state parks across North Dakota.
This investment highlights the continuing role of the LWCF, which has been instrumental in funding over 40,000 projects since its inception in 1965. The LWCF, primarily funded through federal offshore oil and gas lease revenue, enables states to improve public parks and conservation areas.
“LWCF awards allow states to further allocate these funds to support local public parks projects and state conservation, and expand outdoor recreation access,” a press release indicated.
Senator Kevin Cramer, who played a role in securing the LWCF’s reauthorization through the 2019 John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, has voiced his support for this project. The legislation ensures that states receive a minimum of 40% of LWCF funds, helping local authorities to decide how best to use the resources.
According to the park’s website, Fort Ransom State Park, located in North Dakota’s Sheyenne River Valley, offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities. Named after a 19th-century military fort, the park also provides canoeing, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities during the warmer months.
Another highlight of the park is its camping options. Visitors can choose from modern campsites with electricity and water hookups, group camping facilities, or primitive sites for a more rustic experience. The park has designated horse campsites equipped with corrals and central water access for those with horses.
Campsite rates range from $15 to $30 per night, depending on the type of site and amenities available.