Visitors of all ages and interests will find something to enjoy in North Dakota’s state parks. From hiking and camping to fishing and wildlife watching, this state has everything an outdoor enthusiast could want.
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, located near Bismarck, is a popular choice. This state features hiking trails, historic sites, and camping facilities. Another favorite is Lake Metigoshe State Park, which offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities on its crystal-clear waters.
No matter what interests draw you to the great outdoors, North Dakota’s state parks are sure to offer an unforgettable experience.
Printable North Dakota State Parks Map
Beaver Lake State Park
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If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing getaway in North Dakota, look no further than Beaver Lake State Park! This beautiful public recreation area is situated in Logan County, right in between Napoleon and Wishek.
The park is spread out over 273 acres of land on the western shore of Beaver Lake, which spans an impressive 968 acres! There’s plenty to do here, from hiking and boating to swimming and fishing.
And if you’re planning to stay awhile, you can even rent one of the cozy cabins or pitch a tent at the campground. Come soak up the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere at Beaver Lake State Park.
Butte Saint Paul State Recreation Area
If you’re looking for a great spot to hike and take in some stunning views, look no further than Butte Saint Paul State Recreation Area in North Dakota.
Located just seven miles northwest of Dunseith, this public recreation area is home to the dramatic 580-foot Butte Saint Paul. At the top of the peak, you’ll find a 12-foot stone cairn and commemorative plaque, making for a great photo opportunity.
The circular trail to the top is perfect for hikers of all skill levels and offers expansive views of the Turtle Mountain region. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Butte Saint Paul State Recreation Area is definitely worth checking out.
Cross Ranch State Park
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If you want to visit a state park with plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, Cross Ranch State Park is the perfect spot for you! This gorgeous public recreation area is nestled on the west bank of the Missouri River in North Dakota, and it covers a whopping 569 acres.
Not only that, but the park is also right next to the Nature Conservancy’s Cross Ranch Nature Preserve, which is a massive 6,000-acre preserve home to more than 200 adult bison.
Whether you’re looking to hike, cross-country ski, kayak, or canoe, Cross Ranch State Park has got you covered with 16 miles of trails and plenty of water access. Plus, if you’re looking to stay overnight, the park offers comfortable cabins, yurts, and campsites.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and come enjoy all the natural beauty that Cross Ranch State Park has to offer!
Crow Flies High State Recreation Area
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If you’re looking for a picturesque spot to take in some sweeping views of Lake Sakakawea, look no further than Crow Flies High State Recreation Area.
Just two miles west of New Town in Mountrail County, North Dakota, this scenic overlook offers breathtaking views and plenty of history.
Signs throughout the area detail the role it played in the explorations of Lewis and Clark, and at times of low water, you can even see the footprint of the drowned town of Sanish, now lost below the reservoir’s waves.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for an awesome spot to take in some natural beauty, Crow Flies High State Recreation Area is well worth your time.
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
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If you’re looking for a unique historical experience in North Dakota, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is a must-visit destination. Located just south of Mandan, this state park is home to a variety of reconstructed military buildings, including the famous Custer House.
The park also features a replica of the Mandan On-A-Slant Indian Village, which provides an immersive look into the history of the Mandan people. Whether you’re interested in military history or Native American culture, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park has something for every taste.
Take a stroll through the park’s scenic trails, or simply relax and enjoy the soothing ambience. Whatever you choose to do, you won’t be disappointed by the rich history and natural beauty of this North Dakota gem.
Fort Ransom State Park
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If you’re looking for a fun and educational outdoor adventure in North Dakota, Fort Ransom State Park has to be on your itinerary! This thought-provoking park is located just two miles north of Fort Ransom in Ransom County and offers visitors a chance to step back in time to the 19th century.
You can explore two homesteader farms, the Bjone House and the Andrew Sunne farm, and learn about the lives of the area’s sodbusters and the Mound Builders who lived here from 5000 to 8000 years ago.
With over 20 miles of trails available for hikers, bikers, equestrians, skiers, and snowshoers, there’s plenty of outdoor fun to be had. The park also offers campsites and lodging, canoe and kayak rentals, picnicking facilities, and group facilities in the Sodbuster Building.
Plus, it’s a featured site on the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway, so you can enjoy inspirational views on your way to the park. Don’t miss out on all the fun at Fort Ransom State Park!
Fort Stevenson State Park
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If you’re looking for an entertaining day out in North Dakota, then you should definitely check out Fort Stevenson State Park! This attractive public recreation area is situated on a remarkable peninsula on Lake Sakakawea, just a short distance from the charming community of Garrison.
The park covers an impressive 586 acres and is home to a partial reconstruction of Fort Stevenson – the 19th-century Missouri River fort that gives the park its name. With activities like fishing, boating, camping, and picnicking on offer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Plus, with over eight miles of non-motorized trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or an overnight stay, Fort Stevenson State Park has got you covered with its cabins and campground.
So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to this amazing park and start making some unforgettable memories!
Grahams Island State Park
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Grahams Island State Park is a hidden treasure in North Dakota that offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. This protected area covers almost 1,000 acres on the eastern side of Grahams Island in Devils Lake.
Although there used to be four recreational units on the lake, only Grahams Island State Park remains open due to rising water levels.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including fishing, boating, picnicking, camping, and even staying overnight in one of the delightful cabins. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, Grahams Island State Park is a rewarding choice.
Icelandic State Park
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If you’re looking for a fun outdoor adventure in North Dakota, Icelandic State Park should certainly be on your list. This beautiful park offers something for everyone with over 900 acres of land to explore.
Whether you want to relax on the beach, go fishing or boating, or take a hike on one of the nature trails, you won’t be disappointed. Plus, the park has a museum and historic buildings that offer a glimpse into the area’s past.
If you’re a golfer, you’ll be happy to know that the park is adjacent to the Cavalier Country Club, a 9-hole public course. So pack up your camping gear and head to Icelandic State Park for a memorable outdoor experience!
Lake Metigoshe State Park
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Lake Metigoshe State Park is a beautiful and popular public recreation area that is spread over 1,500 acres on the shores of Lake Metigoshe. Located in the Turtle Mountains, just 14 miles northeast of Bottineau, North Dakota, it’s an easy drive from anywhere in the state.
The park offers a range of water sports, including swimming, canoeing, sailing, water-skiing, and fishing, with northern pike, walleye, and perch all available. There are also modern and primitive camping areas, as well as picnic spots, making it a pleasant place to spend the day or even a weekend.
In winter, visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, skating, sledding, and ice fishing. The Turtle Mountain Outdoor Learning Center is also nearby and offers programs on ecology, conservation, and outdoor recreation.
Lake Sakakawea State Park
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Looking for an absorbing and relaxing outdoor adventure in North Dakota? Look no further than Lake Sakakawea State Park! This beautiful public recreation area is tucked away on the southern shore of Lake Sakakawea and offers 739 acres of outdoor fun.
Located just north of Pick City, the park is adjacent to the Garrison Dam and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to hike, swim, fish, or boat, you’ll find it all here.
The park also features a marina, cabins, and campgrounds, so you can make a weekend of it. And if you’re up for a challenge, the western terminus of the North Country National Scenic Trail is located right here in the park.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Lake Sakakawea State Park today!
Lewis and Clark State Park
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If you’re looking for an activity-filled day outdoors, look no further than Lewis and Clark State Park in North Dakota. This beautiful park spans over 525 acres on the north shore of Lake Sakakawea and is just a short drive from Williston.
With a marina offering boat rentals, a swimming beach, and miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, there’s something for everyone here.
Camping and picnicking are also popular activities at the park, and cabins are available for rent if you want to stay overnight. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Lewis and Clark State Park and experience all it has to offer!
Little Metigoshe State Recreation Area
If you’re looking for a smaller state park that still offers plenty of outdoor fun, Little Metigoshe State Recreation Area is a great choice.
Located on the east shore of Lake Metigoshe in the Turtle Mountains, this park offers a picturesque setting for picnicking and fishing. The fishing dock is a great spot to cast a line and see what you can catch.
And if you visit in the winter, you can even try your hand at ice fishing. Plus, if you want even more options for outdoor recreation, Lake Metigoshe State Park is just a half mile away. This 1,500-acre park has plenty for everyone, from hiking and biking to swimming and boating.
Little Missouri State Park
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Little Missouri State Park is a wonderful option for anyone who loves the great outdoors! With over 6,000 acres of beautiful, rugged terrain, this park is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
The park is located on the western side of the Little Missouri River, near the river’s confluence with Lake Sakakawea, making it a great spot for fishing and other water activities. While much of the park is only accessible by trail, there are over 45 miles of trails to explore, so there’s always something new to discover.
Visitors should be aware that the park has been impacted by nearby oil drilling operations, but efforts have been made to preserve the natural beauty of the area. Overall, Little Missouri State Park is a marvelous place to spend a day, a weekend, or even longer!
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area
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If you’re looking for a place to get outside and explore in North Dakota, Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is certainly worth your attention.
Located just six miles west of Walhalla, this beautiful park sits along the Pembina River and offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re into kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, or off-road vehicles, this charming spot is waiting for you.
The multi-use trails are especially popular, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside as you make your way through the park. So why not pack a picnic and spend a day exploring Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area? You won’t be disappointed!
Sully Creek State Park
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If you’re looking for a peaceful escape to nature, Sully Creek State Park is definitely worth checking out. Located along the Little Missouri River, this park is a great site for camping, horseback riding, and canoeing.
The Maah Daah Hey Trail starts here and takes you on a scenic journey through Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Whether you’re on foot, bike, or horseback, this trail is a must-do.
With equestrian facilities and access to the river, Sully Creek State Park has everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors. Just keep in mind that the park is only open seasonally, so plan accordingly!
Turtle River State Park
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If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor experience in North Dakota, Turtle River State Park is the ideal destination for you! Nestled along the Turtle River, this 775-acre park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just looking for a day trip, Turtle River State Park has something to offer everyone. With miles of hiking and biking trails, you can explore the park’s beautiful natural scenery and spot some of the local wildlife.
And if you love fishing, you’ll be happy to know that the park’s river is home to a variety of fish species. So pack your bags and head to Turtle River State Park for a captivating adventure in the great outdoors!
