North Dakota is home to some of the most gorgeous natural spaces you’ll ever see. And if you enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and exploring nature, you’re in luck because you can do it all in our state parks. Wondering which of these unique destinations belong on your outdoor bucket list? We’ve compiled a list of some of the most beautiful state parks in North Dakota to visit. Adventures await!
Our list of the best state parks to visit in North Dakota begins at Lake Metigoshe State Park. Located on the shores of Lake Metigoshe, this state park is well known for fishing northern pike, perch and walleye. Visit during the summertime, and you'll want to check out the trail that leads to a breathtaking swimming hole.
2. Beaver Lake State Park
Beaver Lake State Park, 3850 70th St SE, Wishek, ND 58495, USA
This 283-acre state park is located just 17 miles outside of Napoleon, North Dakota and offers recreational activities such as boating, canoeing, water skiing and fishing. Learn more about all the adventures that await you at Beaver Lake State Park.
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3. Fort Ransom State Park
Fort Ransom State Park, Walt Hjelle Parkway, Fort Ransom, ND, USA
Fort Ransom State Park is nestled in the Sheyenne River Valley and is one of North Dakota's officially designated Scenic Byways and Backways. Learn more about what makes Fort Ransom State Park perfect for your next outing.
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4. Icelandic State Park
Icelandic State Park, 13571 ND-5, Cavalier, ND 58220, USA
Located on the north shore of Lake Renwick, this state park has a 200-acre natural wooded area that's used as a sanctuary for plants, birds and many different species of wildlife. While you're there, be sure to check out this beautiful secluded lake.
5. Grahams Island State Park
Grahams Island State Park, 152 South Duncan Road, Devils Lake, ND 58301, USA
This state park has a lake that offers some of the best summer and winter fishing in North Dakota, and it's located 10 miles west of Devils Lake. Truly, Grahams Island State Park makes for a perfect year-round day trip destination.
Military history, as well as early Native American history, is preserved at this state park, which is located only 7 miles from Mandan, North Dakota. If you're a history enthusiast, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is a must.
7. Lewis & Clark State Park
Lewis and Clark State Park, 4904 119th Rd NW, Epping, ND 58843, USA
Two very rare fish species, the pallid sturgeon and the paddlefish, can sometimes be found in this state park's lake. Lewis & Clark State Park is located 19 miles southeast of Williston, North Dakota. It's so well-hidden that it might just be one of North Dakota's best-kept secrets.
8. Little Missouri State Park
Little Missouri State Park, 910 103rd Ave NW, Killdeer, ND 58640, USA
Because of this state park's many miles of trails, backpacking and horseback riding are popular activities. This state park also has some of the best Badlands scenery you'll ever see. In fact, many consider Little Missouri State Park to be the best state park in North Dakota.
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9. Cross Ranch Lake Park
Cross Ranch State Park, 1403 River Rd, Center, ND 58530, USA
This state park stretches along seven miles of the Missouri River and has been left alone to preserve the land's natural beauty. Just a few moments here will showcase why Cross Ranch Lake Park is one of the best state parks to visit in North Dakota.
10. Turtle River State Park
Turtle River State Park, 3084 Park Ave NE, Arvilla, ND 58214, USA
Turtle River State Park is stocked with lots of rainbow trout and is located 22 miles west of Grand Forks, North Dakota. Learn more about what you can look forward to when you visit this quiet and peaceful state park.
Do you agree that these are some of the best state parks to visit in North Dakota? Are there any that you would add to the list? If so, be sure to let us know in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! For even more inspiration, check out the Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To North Dakota’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes, And More! There’s something on this list for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.
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state parks to visit in North Dakota
Beth C. |January 10, 2022
What are the top natural wonders to visit in North Dakota?
North Dakota's natural wonders could impress just about anyone. No matter which region of the state you happen to be visiting, you'll find yourself in proximity to some truly otherworldly scenery. Some of the top natural wonders to visit in North Dakota include Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge, Cannonball Concretions Pullout, Wildwood Hiking Trail, Theodore Roosevelt National park, Fort Ransom State Park, Cross Ranch State Park, Caprock-Coulee Trail, Grahams Island, and Wind Canyon Trail. Curious to learn more? Check out our previous article: The 10 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In North Dakota That Everyone Should Visit.
