Flippin’ Awesome BBQ Spots in Greater Grand Forks!

It’s finally summer! Time to get out of the house, enjoy the sunshine, and make the most of these warm days before winter sneaks back in. And what better way to celebrate than with a good old-fashioned BBQ in Grand Forks with friends and family at one of our local parks? In this article I’m gonna tell you about the best places I’ve found in and around Grand Forks to fire up the grill!

This is a great option if you want more than just a place to grill. Only 25 minutes from Grand Forks, Larimore Dam offers a variety of activities including disc golf, kayaking, swimming, relaxing by the lake, and fishing—all while your charcoal heats up.

This place is awesome because there’s a lot of space, so you can easily find an empty spot to have your picnic. It’s surrounded by a lot of big trees (lots of shades) but remember to carry your sun block and bug repellent!

Another great thing is that you can camp there, so leave the stress behind and enjoy a great weekend with  nature.

The park has small grills available, so just bring your own charcoal, food, and picnic supplies (don’t forget your blanket!)

Tips:

• Pet friendly, but dogs are not allowed on the beach.
• Bring cash. Camping is $35 per night, or $7 for a day visit.

If you’re looking for a park within the city that’s also dog-friendly, this is the perfect spot. Located at 120 Euclid Ave, Lincoln Drive Park has a designated grilling area and a picnic shelter with tables and electrical outlets for a comfortable meal.

The park also offers games like ping pong, horseshoe pits, foosball (equipment provided) among other games, a volleyball court, and plenty of green space for frisbee golf and other outdoor fun. You can also enjoy a pleasant walk along its scenic paths, surrounded by trees and nature. And the best part is—it’s free!

Tips:

• There’s a dog park on-site, so feel free to bring toys, water, and treats for your pet.

Located at 2205 24th Ave S, Bringewatt Park is another great choice. While it has fewer grills and a smaller BBQ area than the previous parks, it still has everything you need: a covered shelter, picnic tables, and plenty of open space to enjoy your meal outdoors.

What makes this park special is the number of soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, and a great playground for kids, so come with all your friends, play a friendly match and make the loser pay for the meal!

Tips:

• You can check field availability at the Grand Forks Parks website.

This is one of the most peaceful and beautiful parks in town. Sertoma Park, located at 3300 11th Avenue South, has several picnic shelters most with grills, and clean restroom facilities. It also features a children’s play area and a calm, relaxing atmosphere that makes it perfect for a quiet BBQ afternoon with family or friends.

Tips:

• There are secret gnome houses in some trees, so try to find them!

A list of local BBQ spots wouldn’t be complete without Turtle River State Park. Just a short drive west of Grand Forks, this scenic park is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to grill, relax, and soak in some nature. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a full weekend of camping, this park is awesome.

There’s a fenced-in dog area, multiple scenic trails, and shelters where you can cook and enjoy your meal comfortably, but what I like the most is the beautiful trails through the woods and next to the river. You can start the day by hiking to work up an appetite and then enjoy the meal!

Tips:

• Bring cash: $7 per vehicle for a day visit
• Bring bug repellent.

General Tips: 

• Shelters can be reserved ahead of time to guarantee your space. You can reserve a shelter here.
• If you plan to have alcoholic beverages, you’ll need a permit.
  Learn more here.
• And finally, always bring bug spray and a backup lighter.

Whether you’re grilling burgers, hot dogs, or preparing “carne asada”, these parks offer great settings to enjoy a classic summer cookout. So, grab your cooler, get your supplies ready, and make the most of BBQ season in Grand Forks. Don’t forget the bug spray.

Happy grilling!