I believe most people in North Dakota agree that one of the best places to be on a summer day is at the lake. Lakes are perfect for everything under the sun. Dipping your feet into the water and just relaxing, taking a swim or a canoe, boat, kayak, or another vessel, or casting a line and fishing – whatever you choose to do at one of North Dakota’s lakes, you’re bound to create great memories. There are so many lakes in the Peace Garden State that it’d be impossible to list them all. However, we’ve listed 10 of the best lakes in North Dakota below that almost seem magical.

1. Diamond Lake
Kulm, ND 58456, USA
Krista Lundgren/USFWS/Flickr
This breathtaking lake is located in LaMoure County about five miles north of Kulm, North Dakota. It has a boat ramp and plenty of shoreline to enjoy the lake to its fullest.
2. Des Moines Lake
Des Moines Lake, Lake Williams, ND 58475, USA
Andrew Filer/Flickr
This beautiful lake is located just about five and a half miles east of Robinson, North Dakota. It has fishing access and a lovely sandy shore that'd be perfect for a stroll. Even on a cloudy day, it looks beautiful.
3. East Arroda Lake
Oliver County, ND, USA
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
This scenic lake is located in Oliver County. Those who enjoy fishing can find northern pike and white crappies here, and those who enjoy photography can easily get some gorgeous shots.
4. Rice Lake
Rice Lake, ND, USA
Andrew Filer/Flickr
Located in Ward County, this stunning lake is full of potential for the perfect sunny summer day from dawn until dusk. Fishing, boating, swimming, and more can all be enjoyed here.
5. Larimore Dam
Larimore Dam Boating Access, Larimore, ND 58251, USA
Wes Peck/Flickr
The Larimore Dam in Grand Forks County has a great recreational area for swimming, lakeside picnics, and camping. There are more than 140 campsites with trails, a swimming beach, and everything else you need for an unforgettable day trip.

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6. Des Lacs Lake
Kenmare, ND 58746, USA
Jennifer Jewett/USFWS/Flickr
The Des Lacs Lakes are some of the most scenic bodies of water in North Dakota. A large portion of these lakes are encompassed in a wildlife refuge that keeps the natural state of the lake preserved. Animals and flowers are abundant and great for viewing near or in the water.
7. Sibley Lake
Sibley Lake, Vernon, ND 58428, USA
Andrew Filer/Flickr
This lake in Kidder County has multiple boat ramps and would be great for a fishing trip.
8. Chase Lake
Chase Lake, ND, USA
USFWS/Flickr
This huge lake is located near Medina, North Dakota, and is known for being a huge nesting area for thousands of birds. Most notably it houses migrating white pelicans that come here in huge masses to lay their eggs and raise their young. It is definitely a sight to behold that you can only truly understand by seeing it in person.
9. Maurer-Taylor Tract
Bismarck, ND, USA
USFWS/Flickr
This spot is near Bismarck, North Dakota, and was created by the joining of the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers. There's no denying that it looks lovely on a sunny day.
10. Lake Sakakawea
Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota, USA
Heather/Flickr
There's no way we could leave out North Dakota's largest lake, Lake Sakakawea. It spans multiple counties in central and western North Dakota, and it has more miles of shoreline than California. There are multiple state parks, recreation areas, and other spots to enjoy at this lake. The possibilities here are endless.

For a prairie state, North Dakota is surprisingly full of water. We also have beautiful rivers that are so much more than just a body of water.

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best lakes in north dakota

Jennifer Young | May 17, 2022

What lake do many people consider to be one of the prettiest in North Dakota?

There are many pretty lakes in North Dakota. One of the prettiest lakes in North Dakota is Lake Sakakawea, which is located about fifty miles from Bismarck. It's 180-miles long and has 1,530 miles of public shoreline. In addition to being pretty, Lake Sakakawea is also the largest man-made lake that's located entirely within the state of North Dakota. It's also the second largest lake in the U.S. in terms of area. People who visit this lake enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing.

Lake Sakakawea State Park, which is located on the banks of the lake, offers a sandy beach, hiking trails, campsites, and more. Because Lake Sakakawea has multiple access points and is surrounded by lots of beautiful scenery, it's a definite must-visit for anyone who loves the natural beauty of the outdoors.

Which two North Dakota lakes belong on everyone's outdoor bucket list?

North Dakota is home to many wonderful lakes including Devils Lake and Long Lake. Devils Lake is North Dakota's largest natural lake. It's also a popular spot for fishing perch, walleye, white bass, and northern pike. Interestingly, Devils Lake is known as the "Perch Capital of The World."

Boating is another popular activity enjoyed on the lake, in addition to swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and more. Long Lake is located within Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge near Moffit and is a popular spot for birdwatching. A variety of birds live along the shoreline of this lake including waterfowl, shorebirds, and the rarest of migrant birds. In addition to birdwatching, many people who visit Long Lake also enjoy activities such as fishing and hiking. Whenever you visit this lake, don't forget your binoculars. Also, keep in mind that Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge closes at sunset.

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