7 Under-Appreciated State Parks In North Dakota You’re Sure To Love
Nothing beats the great outdoors in North Dakota. Whether you’re walking by a shimmering lake or traversing through a verdant forest, our great state always amazes. With one national park, 14 state parks, and more nature preserves than any other state, North Dakota has plenty of ways to experience its beautiful nature. While some of these parks are very popular, others deserve a little more recognition. These are 7 under-appreciated state parks to visit in North Dakota.
Named after the famous exploring duo that traveled through here, this state park has breathtaking views of the badlands surrounding Lake Sakakawea. It includes a large marina and swimming beach. Hiking and biking trails can also be found here, and there is plenty of beautiful wildlife to see. Learn more by visiting the official Lewis and Clark State Park website.
The Theodore Roosevelt National Park isn't the only place you can see the mesmerizing badlands of North Dakota. This state park is the perfect place to see it. Horseback riding is very popular here and it has some of the best trails. They travel along the ridge lines and overlook the fantastic scenery. Check outLittle Missouri State Park's website for more information.
Little Missouri State Park, 910 103rd Ave NW, Killdeer, ND 58640, USA
The calm and peaceful waters of Beaver Lake are the perfect place for a picnic on the shore or a stroll along the beach. Anyone would enjoy a day out at Beaver Lake! To learn more, visit Beaver Lake State Park's website.
This state park is stunning year round. The dense trees surrounding the Turtle River provide a wonderful place to escape and just enjoy nature. It has everything you need for an outdoor getaway - campgrounds, cabins, trails, boating, fishing, and more. Need more info? Visit Turtle River State Park's website.
The Icelandic State Park is one of the most unique parks in North Dakota. Located next to Lake Renwick and the Tongue River, this park has it all. Gorgeous natural views, historic buildings, and a nature preserve with hundreds of plants and animals - some of which you can't find anywhere else in the state. Check out Icelandic State Park's website to learn more.
While travelers to Medora usually visit the famous national park right next to it, if you want to skip the tourist crowds and still get a glimpse into the beauty of the badlands then Sully Creek is exactly what you want. This is one of North Dakota's only seasonal parks, so visit Sully Creek State Park's website for the latest information about their operating hours.
Sully Creek State Park, 1465 36th St, Medora, ND 58645, USA
Cross Ranch State Park is unique in that it is located along the last free-flowing, undeveloped stretch of the Missouri River. It has over 5,000 acres dedicated as a nature preserve and plenty of trails to explore it in. Stay overnight under the stars at the campgrounds or in a cabin or yurt that is available for reservations. To learn more, visit the Cross Ranch State Park website.
Cross Ranch State Park, 1403 River Rd, Center, ND 58530, USA
These are just a few of North Dakota’s parks and recreation areas. Have explored any of these little-known gems? What are your favorite state parks to visit in North Dakota? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
state parks to visit in North Dakota
January 10, 2022
Elisa Regulski
What are the most picturesque hiking trails in North Dakota?
Looking for the best things to do outside in North Dakota? Just venture to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This stunning destination is home to hundreds of miles of walking paths, and some say they’re the best hiking trails in North Dakota. One of our favorites is, hands down, the Maah Daah Hey trail. Break the journey into smaller segments and take your time exploring the beauty. You won’t regret it.
Does North Dakota have any natural wonders?
The Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge is widely regarded as one of the most amazing natural wonders in North Dakota. Full of magnificent prairie hills and wetlands, this destination will make you feel like you’re walking through a fairy tale. Take a trip to Minot and experience it for yourself! The Cannonball Concretions Pullout, located inside Theodore Roosevelt National Park, is another place that belongs on your bucket list. These natural rock formations are so perfectly spherical, you’d almost think an artist created them. To learn more about these attractions, check out our full list of the top 10 natural wonders in North Dakota.
What are the best waterfall hikes in North Dakota?
Turtle River is one of the best state parks in North Dakota, and it’s home to a spectacular waterfall hike. And the best part? It’s a short and sweet journey! In fact, it’s only .65 miles long. Bring the whole family along and marvel at the natural beauty along the Fisher Loop. You’ll love every second of this breathtaking excursion.
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Leah moved to North Dakota when she was 12 years old and has traveled from the Red River Valley to the badlands and many places in between. She loves small-town life and currently enjoys living on a small farm in the ND prairie. She's always had a passion for writing and has participated in novel writing challenges such as NaNoWriMo multiple times. Her favorite part about this job is recognizing small businesses that deserve a boost and seeing the positive affect her articles can have on their traffic, especially in rural areas that might have otherwise gone overlooked.
