North Dakota
Nature|National & State Parks

Get Your Outdoor Fix At These 10 State Parks In North Dakota

North Dakota offers a variety of state parks with unique natural settings and outdoor activities.

Updated Jan 10, 2022

Written by 

Leah

There are quite a few state parks to visit in North Dakota. Some are centered around lakes. Some contain dense forests, and others have winding rivers. They show every aspect of the Peace Garden State's beautiful natural settings. Plus, they are packed with ways to enjoy the great outdoors: camping, hiking, swimming, boating, horseback riding - and the list goes on.

Ready to get your outdoor fix? Here are 10 of the best state parks in North Dakota.

1. Little Missouri State Park - Killdeer

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NDPRD/Flickr

This state park offers stunning panoramic views of the badlands. It includes 47 miles of trails where hikers and horseback riders can enjoy the peaceful setting. Campgrounds are available for you to have the perfect outdoor weekend. Come and explore some of the most gorgeous hiking trails in North Dakota!

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Check out the official website for Little Missouri State Park to learn more.

2. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park - Bismarck/Mandan

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NDPRD/Flickr

One of the most popular state parks is the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, and for good reason. It's so much more than your average park. Not only is it in a beautiful natural area, it also is loaded with history. There are multiple historical sites that you can explore here, as well as a trolley that can take you to them. During certain times of the year you can even see historical reenactments that will really make your trip a memorable one.

To learn more, visit Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park's website.

3. Turtle River State Park - Grand Forks

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NDPRD/Flickr

Located right on the lovely Turtle River, this park has everything you need and more for the best outdoor getaway. This forest-filled river valley is great to just let your mind and body relax while you're surrounded by nature. It's the ideal spot for a picnic, a casual hike, or even fishing and camping.

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Need more info? Visit Turtle River State Park's website.

4. Sully Creek State Park - Medora

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NDPRD/Flickr

Sully Creek State Park can be found right on the southern edge of the Little Missouri National Grasslands near the scenic town of Medora. The horseback riding trails are one of the biggest draws here, but the campgrounds tucked right into the rugged hills are also very popular. Who wouldn't want to stay here with views like that?

To learn more, visit Sully Creek State Park's website.

5. Lake Metigoshe State Park - Bottineau

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NDPRD/Flickr

By far one of the most popular nature spots for visitors, Lake Metigoshe proves why with its mesmerizing views. It is located in the always-beautiful Turtle Mountains and has dense trees, wetlands, and the lake itself. It doesn't get much more beautiful than sitting on the lakeside watching the sun set over the reflecting waters. You have to see it for yourself to fully appreciate it!

If you need more information, visit

To learn more, visit Lake Metigoshe State Park's website.

6. Lewis & Clark State Park - Williston

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NDPRD/Flickr

Located on the edge of Lake Sakakawea near Williston, North Dakota, this simply stunning state park has so much to offer. With a lake as big as this, there are endless opportunities for boating, sailing, fishing, and hanging out at the swimming beaches.

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If you need more information, visit

To learn more, visit Lewis & Clark State Park's website.

7. Fort Ransom State Park - Fort Ransom

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NDPRD/Flickr

Right in the heart of the Sheyenne River valley is one of the best state parks in North Dakota. No matter how you experience this park - on the trails, in a tent, yurt, or cabin, or driving through the scenic byway - you are sure to fall in love with this area.

For more information, check out Fort Ransom State Park's website.

8. Beaver Lake State Park - Napoleon

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NDPRD/Flickr

This state park, located on a lake by the same name, is the best for all things beautiful. The swimming beach and the trails offer great outdoor recreation. There is lots of wildlife to see while you are here, and yes, that includes beavers!

Visit Beaver Lake State Park's website to learn more.

9. Grahams Island State Park - Devils Lake

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NDPRD/Flickr

One of the best ways to experience North Dakota's always-popular Devils Lake is at this particular state park. It is located on an island of sorts right in the middle of the lake. You can reach the island by a raised road and then be totally immersed in the area. The island features great trails, awesome campgrounds, and plenty of spots to enjoy the water.

Visit Grahams Island State Park's website to learn more.

10. Icelandic State Park - Cavalier

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NDPRD/Flickr

Icelandic State Park is located right in the very upper east corner of North Dakota on Lake Renwick. This breathtaking place holds everything that makes wonderful place to visit. Amazing views, serene settings, and wonderful ways to enjoy it all.

For more information, visit Icelandic State Park's website.

North Dakota's Parks and Recreation website can give you more information on each of these parks. What are your favorite state parks to visit in North Dakota? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Need even more awesome places to visit in this state to get your outdoor fix? Check out these little-known swimming holes in North Dakota.

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Nature|National & State Parks

The North Dakota Hike That Leads To The Most Unforgettable Destination

Discover a stunning hike to Sperati Point in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offering breathtaking views of the Little Missouri River and surrounding landscapes.

Updated Jul 21, 2024

Written by 

Leah

North Dakota has some truly fantastic hikes, from majestic views overlooking massive lakes to lovely strolls through wildflower-filled meadows. It's no secret that some of the best hikes in the state are located in the badlands. However, one of the most amazing trails there is often overlooked - and it shouldn't be. Theodore Roosevelt National Park's Sperati Point Trail in North Dakota is an absolutely amazing adventure that you won't want to miss out on. Check it out:

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To find this trail, you'll have to take a scenic drive through the North Unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park first.

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ToddSm66/E+/Getty Images

This scenic byway will take you through the rolling prairie hills, rugged badlands buttes, and everything else we know and love about this area.

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Theodore Roosevelt National Park/Facebook

The unique landscape is gorgeous year-round, and this drive alone is worth the trip. But it's the end destination we are heading towards.

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Peter Unger/Stone/Getty Images

At the end of the drive, you'll find the Oxbow Overlook. Most people take in this view - a stunning one, no doubt - and call it good there. However, if you are prepared to take a fairly short hike, you're in for a treat.

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Laurel Gibbons/Google Reviews

Starting from the overlook, you'll head onto the Sperati Point Trail. The Sperati Point Trail difficulty is considered easy to moderate, and it takes most explorers about an hour to enjoy. As you walk along you'll see glimpses of the valley you had just seen at the overlook, resulting in a pretty journey through every step you take.

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S/Flickr

If you thought the Oxbox Overlook view was impressive, you'll be blown away by the sight of this. Sperati Point Trail photos show an amazing scene. The snaking Little Missouri River, the distant painted canyons, and the variety of prairie plants and animals all come together for a natural masterpiece. You won't find a view like this anywhere else!

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Michael James/AllTrails

Finally, as you reach the end of the hike, you'll be able to start taking in the view at Sperati Point. This is a whole different perspective of the river valley that gets especially impressive in the fall when the patches of trees far down below are vibrant with color.

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Steve5863/Tripadvisor

Don't be surprised if you end up sharing the trail with bison! As long as you keep your distance, these majestic creatures will likely do the same.

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Steve5863/Tripadvisor

You can reach the Sperati Point Trail by driving through the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit Scenic Byway, near Watford City, ND. If you'd like to read Sperati Point Trail reviews and learn more about this great hike, check out our friends at AllTrails.

Are you an avid fan of hiking in North Dakota? You may want to try a free trial of AllTrails+: it's got tons of great benefits, like downloadable trail maps and turn-by-turn directions!

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Nature|National & State Parks

The Jones Creek Trail Is A Hidden Adventure In North Dakota Worthy Of A Day Hike

Published Jul 8, 2024

Written by 

Tori Jane

Hidden away within the amazing Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a vast array of amazing trails and hikes that are sure to amaze you. The park is filled from top to bottom (or should I say North entrance to South entrance) with incredible views, amazing sights, and, of course, plenty of Peace Garden State wonder. Suppose you're seeking the ultimate scenic hiking trail in North Dakota. In that case, you'll definitely want to check out the nothing-short-of-spectacular Jones Creek Trail, which is absolutely ideal for a full afternoon of hiking.

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Welcome to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, one of the most beautiful places in the Dakotas.

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Steve Decker/AllTrails

This jaw-dropping landscape is made up of the incredible North American Badlands, and it's truly, purely North Dakota. You just won't find landscapes like this anywhere but the Dakotas.

The Jones Creek Trail is just under seven miles in length, and should you hike it without stopping, it ought to take about two and a half hours to complete.

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John Alexander Castle/AllTrails

Of course, I don't know why you'd want to do it all at once; there are so many amazing points of interest to stop and marvel at that you could easily make a whole day trip out of it.

The trail is open year-round, but the best times to hike it are, in my opinion, from late spring until early August.

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Rick Ryan/AllTrails

I can't even properly express all the amazingness that is this incredible adventure; from epic views to gorgeous hills, valleys, and more, you're sure to walk away from this incredible place with a whole new appreciation for all the wonderfulness that is North Dakota.

You'll meander along Jones Creek and appreciate various geological splendors, like this awe-inspiring feature along the river.

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Dustin Longmire/AllTrails

You can expect to meander up and down a few hills, though nothing is terribly dramatic or difficult. Most kids should be able to do it.

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Do keep in mind that there are no dogs permitted on this hike, so be sure to leave puppers at home for this one.

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Steve Decker/AllTrails

Entry to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is $15 to $30, depending on your vehicle and how many folks are in it. A single vehicle is $30, motorcycles are $25, and individual people walking in are $15. There is no additional charge if you're an annual NPS pass holder, though.

And be sure to keep your eyes peeled: You ought to see horses, bison, and plenty of other critters that call this amazing place home.

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Larry Jarrett/AllTrails

Sometimes, North Dakota truly is the wild, wild west... and I wouldn't have it any other way.

For more information about this incredible scenic hiking trail in North Dakota, be sure to visit its official AllTrails page. If you'd like to bump your hiking game up to 11, be sure to check out AllTrails Plus as well - I'm not sure how I ever hiked without it!

Do you have a favorite hiking trail in North Dakota that ought to make for an awesome day out? Tell me about it in the comments!

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