Here Are 10 North Dakota Swimming Spots That Will Make Your Summer Epic

Summer is heating up. One of my favorite summer activities is heading to a nearby lake and jumping in. Swimming is the perfect way to have some fun in the sun on a hot day, and North Dakota has many great places for swimming. Listed below are 10 of the best rivers and lakes in North Dakota that belong on your summer bucket list.

1. Lake Metigoshe

The breathtaking Lake Metigoshe near Bottineau offers shoreside access for swimming and the opportunity to canoe or kayak across the lake. The serene atmosphere is the perfect peaceful place for enjoying the summer sun.

2. Lake Sakakawea

Located within Lake Sakakawea State Park, this lake has more shoreline than California and should be a top summer destination for anyone, anywhere. Everything that can be done in the water can be done here, and swimming is right there at the top. With plenty of beaches and opportunities, you cannot pass this place up this season.

3. Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake State Park, near Wishek, surrounds the scenic Beaver Lake. The park has a swimming beach and opportunities for water sports like water skiing. Make a splash on your summer adventures by visiting Beaver Lake. You'll be so glad you did.

4. Devils Lake

North Dakota's largest natural lake is pretty much perfect for anything. Swimming, boating, fishing, jet skiing, water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are among the lake's most popular activities. There's plenty of lake access around, including swimming beaches. Why spend your summer days inside when you can cool off and soak up some sun at Devils Lake?

5. Missouri River

So, it isn't exactly a swimming hole per se, but the Missouri River does have a ton of spots with swimming access, as well as other water sports. And, quite frankly, it's beautiful and should be on everyone's North Dakota bucket list. Lots of opportunities for waterside fun can be found around the Bismarck-Mandan area.

6. Lake Renwick

Out near Cavalier, Lake Renwick is the optimal spot for a relaxing, warm afternoon. The surrounding area is dazzling year-round, and that, plus the pristine waters, will get you out of your daily grind and into nature without a care in the world.

7. Lake Tschida

Lake Tschida, also known as the Heart Butte Reservoir, is a gorgeous location between Dickinson and Bismarck, and to the south, it is amazing for swimming. This is also definitely a place you might just love enough that you have to stay more than a day, and there are plenty of campsites to allow you to do so. Swim all day in the cool waters here, and you'll make some unforgettable summer memories.

8. Spring Lake Park

If you're around Williston and need a place to go on your day off to cool down and soak up some sunshine, Spring Lake Park is just right for you. With its gorgeous waters and pleasant beaches, this place is very fitting for all things summer.

9. Lake Ashtabula

Visiting Valley City anytime soon? Here's a spot nearby you should stop at with a cooler full of refreshments, some sunscreen, and a swimsuit. Lake Ashtabula can be enjoyed by all, whether they're on or in the water.

10. New Johns Lake

Northeast of Bismarck, New Johns Lake is an excellent place to stop by and take a dip in the cool water when it's too hot to do anything else in the middle of summer. Nothing's more refreshing in the heat than a nice swim in a nearby lake, and this place is perfect for it.

Where in North Dakota is your favorite place to swim during the summer months? For more things to do during the season, check out the Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun in North Dakota.