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State Parks
- Beaver Lake State Park – known for its picturesque beauty and abundant recreational opportunities. The park encompasses over 280 acres of diverse landscape, including dense woodlands, rolling hills, and the serene Beaver Lake. Visitors can enjoy activities like camping, fishing, boating, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. The park also offers hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forest, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy stunning views. With its tranquil ambiance and natural charm, Beaver Lake State Park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
- Butte Saint Paul State Recreation Area – Nestled in the scenic countryside of North Dakota, Butte Saint Paul State Recreation Area offers a unique outdoor experience. This park is located on a prominent butte, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding plains and valleys. The area is a haven for wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography. Hiking trails meander through the rolling terrain, allowing visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, Butte Saint Paul State Recreation Area provides opportunities for camping, picnicking, and stargazing, making it a tranquil escape for nature lovers.
- Cross Ranch State Park – Situated along the banks of the Missouri River, Cross Ranch State Park is a nature lover’s paradise in North Dakota. Covering an expansive area of over 5800 acres, the park boasts diverse ecosystems, including river bottoms, prairie grasslands, and dense woodlands. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, canoeing, and horseback riding. Visitors can explore the scenic trails that wind through the park and witness the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. With its peaceful ambiance and scenic beauty, Cross Ranch State Park provides a serene retreat for those seeking to connect with nature.
- Crow Flies High State Recreation Area – Located in southwestern North Dakota, Crow Flies High State Recreation Area is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The park encompasses approximately 900 acres of rolling prairie landscape, dotted with picturesque lakes and wetlands. It offers excellent opportunities for fishing, with abundant populations of walleye, northern pike, and perch. Birdwatchers will also find this area appealing, as it is a haven for waterfowl and shorebirds. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, and picnicking while admiring the scenic vistas. Crow Flies High State Recreation Area provides a peaceful escape and a chance to immerse oneself in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
- Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park – Steeped in history, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is located near Mandan, North Dakota. This park encompasses the reconstructed Fort Abraham Lincoln, which was an important military outpost during the late 1800s. Visitors can explore the fort’s historic buildings and learn about its significance through guided tours and interpretive displays. The park also offers scenic trails that wind through the prairie, offering stunning views of the Missouri River. Campgrounds and picnic areas are available, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.
- Fort Ransom State Park – Tucked away in the scenic Sheyenne River Valley of North Dakota, Fort Ransom State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park covers over 900 acres of diverse terrain, including rugged hills, dense forests, and rolling prairies. It offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Visitors can explore the extensive trail network that winds through the park, providing opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy breathtaking vistas. With its tranquil setting and ample outdoor opportunities, Fort Ransom State Park is a beloved destination for nature lovers.
- Fort Stevenson State Park – Situated on the northern shore of Lake Sakakawea, Fort Stevenson State Park is a popular recreational spot in North Dakota. The park spans over 2000 acres and offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular on the lake’s expansive waters, while the park’s wooded areas provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. History enthusiasts can explore the reconstructed Fort Stevenson, which served as a military post in the 1800s. The park also features camping facilities, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and outdoor adventure.
- Grahams Island State Park – Located on the shores of Devils Lake, Grahams Island State Park is North Dakota’s largest state park. Spanning over 1500 acres, this park offers diverse recreational opportunities and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can indulge in fishing for walleye, northern pike, and white bass, as well as boating and swimming in the expansive lake. The park’s wooded areas provide excellent hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the unique flora and fauna of the region. With its abundant wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and well-maintained facilities, Grahams Island State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Icelandic State Park – Situated on the shores of Lake Renwick in North Dakota, Icelandic State Park is a unique destination that celebrates the region’s Scandinavian heritage. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including camping, picnicking, fishing, and boating on the lake. Hikers can explore the park’s scenic trails, which wind through the picturesque woodlands and meadows. The park also features a visitor center that highlights the history and culture of the area’s Icelandic settlers. With its natural beauty and cultural significance, Icelandic State Park provides an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
- Lake Metigoshe State Park – Nestled in the scenic Turtle Mountains of North Dakota, Lake Metigoshe State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park encompasses over 1500 acres of pristine wilderness, including crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, such as camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife watching. The park’s trails offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to observe local wildlife, including white-tailed deer, beavers, and a variety of bird species. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural splendor, Lake Metigoshe State Park is a beloved destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.
- Lake Sakakawea State Park – Located along the scenic shores of Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota’s largest man-made lake, Lake Sakakawea State Park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. The park encompasses over 1,300 acres and features a marina, boat ramps, and fishing piers, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts. The lake itself provides excellent fishing for a variety of species, including walleye, northern pike, and salmon. Additionally, the park offers camping facilities, hiking trails, and picnic areas, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the lake and its surrounding landscapes. With its vast expanse of water and picturesque scenery, Lake Sakakawea State Park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
- Lewis and Clark State Park – Located on the northwestern shore of Lake Sakakawea, Lewis and Clark State Park in North Dakota offers a scenic and historically significant experience. The park is named after the famous explorers, Lewis and Clark, who passed through the area during their expedition. Visitors can learn about their journey through interpretive exhibits and guided tours. The park encompasses over 490 acres and offers a range of recreational activities, including camping, boating, fishing, and hiking. The pristine lake and surrounding woodlands provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
- Little Missouri State Park – Located in western North Dakota, Little Missouri State Park is a rugged and remote wilderness area that showcases the state’s diverse landscapes. The park is characterized by its rugged badlands terrain, deep canyons, and scenic vistas overlooking the winding Little Missouri River. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail system, which is popular for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Camping is available, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and solitude of the park. Wildlife such as bison, deer, and eagles can often be spotted, adding to the park’s natural allure.
- Pelican Point State Recreation Area – Situated along the shores of Devils Lake in North Dakota, Pelican Point State Recreation Area offers a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is known for its picturesque beauty and abundant birdlife, particularly pelicans, which give the area its name. Visitors can enjoy fishing for walleye and perch, boating, and swimming in the expansive lake. The park also offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails, providing opportunities to explore the surrounding woodlands. With its serene ambiance and natural charm, Pelican Point State Recreation Area is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area – Located in northeastern North Dakota, Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is a stunning natural area that showcases the state’s unique topography. The park encompasses over 2,800 acres and is known for its deep river valleys, forested hillsides, and scenic views. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail network, which offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Pembina River flows through the gorge, providing opportunities for canoeing and fishing. With its dramatic landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is a hidden gem for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
- Sully Creek State Park – Nestled in the picturesque Badlands of western North Dakota, Sully Creek State Park offers a rugged and scenic escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is situated along the Little Missouri River and is known for its striking rock formations, deep canyons, and expansive grasslands. Visitors can enjoy activities like camping, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. The park’s trails lead to panoramic viewpoints, where visitors can admire the vastness and beauty of the Badlands. With its unique landscapes and abundant wildlife, Sully Creek State Park provides a memorable outdoor experience.
- Turtle River State Park – Located in eastern North Dakota, Turtle River State Park is a peaceful and scenic destination that showcases the region’s natural beauty. The park is named after the Turtle River, which meanders through the area and provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The park’s woodlands, prairies, and riverbanks are home to diverse wildlife and offer picturesque hiking trails. Camping facilities, picnic areas, and a swimming pool are available, making it an ideal spot for family outings. With its tranquil setting and recreational amenities, Turtle River State Park offers a serene retreat for nature lovers.
National Parks
- Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
- Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
State & National Forests
National Natural Landmarks
- Fischer Lake: Representative of the glacial moraine and pitted outwash plain surface of North Dakota. 47.083268°N 99.227339°W
- Rush Lake: A large shallow, essentially undisturbed prairie pothole lake. 48.904575°N 98.681398°W
- Sibley Lake: A large, permanent alkaline lake. 47.520278°N 98.345278°W
- Two Top and Big Top Mesa: A badlands terrain of sandstones, siltstones and clay. 47.302222°N 103.487778°W