It's summer in North Dakota, so the time to soak up some sun and enjoy the great outdoors is here. We'd all love to take a trip down to the Bahamas or Turks and Caicos in the summer, but that's not always possible. The cost is prohibitive, plus we've all got responsibilities like family and work that can make taking time off difficult. Don't fear, though! You don't have to travel all the way to the ocean to get some beach time in. Not many people would think of North Dakota as having places where you can partake in such luxuries, but it actually does. In fact, there are plenty of awesome things to do in North Dakota in summer! With huge natural (and man-made) lakes, plenty of recreational areas and parks, and fun attractions, your summer can feel almost as good as an overseas vacation ... without ever having to leave the Peace Garden State.

1. Lake Sakakawea State Park - Pick City

Enjoy some fun in the sun at the largest lake in North Dakota. This state park has a great swimming beach that is perfect for a family day trip. Want to extend it to a whole weekend trip? No problem, there's a campground on site! You can find boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnicking here. That sounds like the perfect summer day. This is the biggest beach in North Dakota - the amount of coastline here actually exceeds the amount of coast in all of California.

2. Fort Stevenson State Park - Garrison

Directly across from the massive Lake Sakakawea, you can find Fort Stevenson State Park. This fabulous place has a huge marina and plenty of hiking and camping opportunities. There are so many ways to take advantage of the nice weather here! This is really an ideal place for a North Dakota day trip.

3. Raging Rivers Waterpark - Mandan

This massive outdoor water park in North Dakota has everything under the sun when it comes to enjoying a tropical experience. There are tons of water slides here, plus you can find a lazy river, pools, and plenty more for the entire family to enjoy. Summers in North Dakota aren't quite as long as they are in the Caribbean, so you definitely want to hit this place up when they are open for the season.

4. Beaver Lake State Park - Wishek

Take a relaxing day at Beaver Lake State Park in the summer and you certainly won't regret it. This beach is a little more secluded than some in the state, so it's a good opportunity to avoid massive crowds. Whether you'd prefer to stay lakeside at the swimming beach or get out on the water in a boat, canoe, or kayak, you're sure to have a blast here. Beaver Lake is one of the best spots to be when the sun is shining.

5. Devils Lake - Devils Lake

We certainly can't leave the largest natural lake in North Dakota off this list! It's a true recreational dreamland. The lake is brackish, so it's got a very high salt content... it may not actually be the ocean, but you can pretend! It's a huge and beautiful lake with every opportunity for outdoor fun, particularly in the summer. There are tons of resorts around it and you can enjoy cabins, camping, parks, marinas, and lakeside trails.

6. Lewis and Clark Riverboat - Bismarck

That's right, you can take a cruise in North Dakota! You don't have to travel far or pay a hefty price to experience this. This historic riverboat takes on the Missouri River on daily excursions. You can even book it for parties. You'll be treated to some gorgeous views, a quiet, relaxing trip, and if you take an evening dinner cruise, even some delicious food. This is the only riverboat cruise in North Dakota and it's a true delight.

Just don't forget the sun protection! What are your travel plans for summer in North Dakota? Are there any summer places in North Dakota that we left off this list? Share with us in the comments - we always love new suggestions for things to do!

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