Best Camping Beaches in North Dakota

Fort Stevenson State Park is located on the north shore of Lake Sakakawea, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. The park is nestled in the bluffs, providing breathtaking views and access to one of the nation's greatest fisheries. It is named after a late 19th-century military fort and hosts various events throughout the year, including the Governor's Cup Fishing Derby and Frontier Days. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and interpretive trails that wind through diverse landscapes like tree plantings, shrublands, and native prairie.
The park features two marinas, Garrison Bay and de Trobriand Bay, which offer boat ramps, slip rentals, and fish cleaning facilities. Additionally, there are modern campgrounds, cabins, and picnic shelters available for visitors. The park's unique blend of history, nature, and outdoor activities makes it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fort Stevenson State Park is open year-round, with full-service camping available from mid-May to the end of September. The nearby community of Garrison supports the park, offering additional amenities and services for visitors.

Icelandic State Park, located on the north shore of Lake Renwick in Akra Township, North Dakota, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Established in 1964, the park spans over 900 acres, featuring a mix of wooded areas and open spaces. It is a significant site for preserving North Dakota's Icelandic heritage, thanks to the donation of land by G. B. Gunlogson. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as boating, swimming, fishing, and hiking, while also exploring historic buildings like the Pioneer Heritage Center and the Gunlogson State Nature Preserve.

The park's natural attractions include the Gunlogson Nature Preserve, which is home to rare plant and animal species. The preserve offers three miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, providing opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

With its rich history and diverse recreational opportunities, Icelandic State Park is an ideal destination for those interested in exploring North Dakota's outdoors and cultural heritage.

Grahams Island State Park is a picturesque destination located on the shores of Devils Lake in North Dakota. The park spans 959 acres and offers a serene blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. It is named after Captain Duncan Graham, the first white settler in the area. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, hiking, and world-class fishing. The park hosts national and regional fishing tournaments throughout the year and provides amenities such as a bait shop, boat ramp, and fish cleaning station. In winter, it transforms into a haven for cross-country skiing and ice fishing.
The park's landscape is heavily wooded, providing large shaded campsites for both primitive and modern camping. The Sivert Thompson Activity Center offers a scenic backdrop for events, while picnic shelters are available for family gatherings.
Grahams Island State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike, offering a tranquil escape from urban life with its unspoiled natural beauty and diverse recreational activities.

Lake Sakakawea State Park, located in Pick City, North Dakota, is a stunning natural destination situated on the south shore of Lake Sakakawea, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States. The park offers breathtaking views and a variety of activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the North Country National Scenic Trail, which begins here and stretches over 4,800 miles to Vermont. The park's sandy shores provide a picturesque setting for picnics and relaxation. With its full-service marina and boat ramps, it is a haven for anglers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

Lake Sakakawea is renowned for its premier fishing, with species like walleye, northern pike, and chinook salmon. The park also features modern camping facilities, including seasonal cabins and campsites with amenities like restrooms and showers. Whether you're looking for adventure or tranquility, Lake Sakakawea State Park offers something for everyone.

The park's proximity to attractions like the Garrison Dam and the Audubon National Wildlife Refuge makes it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural and historical sites.

Lake Ashtabula, located in North Dakota, offers a serene and scenic getaway. Situated 12 miles northwest of Valley City, it is nestled in a picturesque river valley, providing a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and recreation. The lake spans 5,174 acres with a shoreline of 73.1 miles, offering ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of migrating waterfowl during spring and fall, while winter brings opportunities for snowmobiling and ice fishing. The area is managed by the Corps of Engineers, ensuring well-maintained facilities and wildlife habitats.
The lake's average depth is 13 feet, with a maximum depth of 43 feet, making it suitable for various water activities. The surrounding landscape is dotted with campsites, each equipped with amenities like clean drinking water, restrooms, and picnic facilities. This setting makes Lake Ashtabula an ideal destination for family vacations and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The region's natural beauty and diverse recreational activities attract tourists from across the country, offering a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.

Lake Metigoshe, located in the scenic Turtle Mountains near Bottineau, North Dakota, is a popular year-round destination. It offers a serene environment with opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake is surrounded by beautiful woodlands and wetlands, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife and bird species. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature while engaging in various recreational activities throughout the seasons.
The area is also known for its cultural attractions, such as Mystical Horizons, a replica of Stonehenge, and the iconic Tommy Turtle statue. Whether you're interested in relaxation or adventure, Lake Metigoshe provides a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm.
With its proximity to the Canadian border, the region offers a blend of American and Canadian influences, making it a fascinating place to explore.