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Home >  United States  >  North Dakota  >  Bismarck  >  

Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area

Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area

United States, North Dakota, Bismarck 

Sandee

Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area

United States, North Dakota, Bismarck 

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McDowell Dam Recreation Area is a scenic 271-acre park located five miles east of Bismarck, North Dakota. It offers a public beach, picnic shelters, horseshoe pits, a small concessions area, a playground, and modern restrooms. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, boating, fishing, and paddle boating. The park also features a paved trail and a nature trail encircling the dam, perfect for nature walks or runs. The area is family-friendly, pet-friendly, and offers free admission, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

The park's serene lake and lush greenery create a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and adventure. With its well-maintained facilities and diverse recreational opportunities, McDowell Dam Recreation Area is a quintessential destination for those seeking to connect with nature and enjoy a day of fun in the great outdoors.

Managed by the Bismarck Parks and Recreation District, the park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, providing ample opportunities for visitors to explore its natural beauty throughout the seasons.

Near McDowell Dam Recreation Area, there are several excellent dining options. Luckys 13 Pub offers a casual atmosphere with a great beer selection and fast service. For a more upscale experience, Pirogue Grille serves seasonal American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Huckleberry House provides a cozy setting with a fireplace and great cocktails. Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews is a vibrant eatery known for its creative burgers and full bar. Lastly, Peacock Alley offers a historic setting with prime meats and martinis.

For accommodations near McDowell Dam Recreation Area, several hotels are available. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Bismarck Waterpark offers a casual all-suite experience with a water park. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bismarck provides a low-key stay with free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Hampton Inn Bismarck North features modern rooms and an indoor pool. Lastly, Quality Inn Bismarck I-94 offers a budget-friendly option with a casino and indoor pool.

McDowell Dam Recreation Area offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park features modern restrooms, picnic shelters that can be reserved for special occasions, and a playground for children. There is also a small concessions area where visitors can purchase snacks and drinks. For water enthusiasts, paddleboats, paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are available for rent during the summer months. The park's paved trail and nature trail provide opportunities for walking, jogging, or biking, allowing visitors to explore the scenic surroundings.

The park offers a range of activities suitable for all ages. Swimming and boating are popular pastimes on the lake, with paddle boating and kayaking available for rent. Fishing is another favorite activity, with a well-maintained fishing pier. For those who prefer to stay on land, the park's trails are perfect for hiking or jogging. Families can enjoy picnics in the designated shelters or spend time at the playground. The area is also great for nature walks, allowing visitors to appreciate the local wildlife and scenic beauty.

McDowell Dam Recreation Area strives to be accessible to all visitors. The park features wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms. While specific details about ramps or wheelchair rentals may not be available, the park's facilities are generally designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. It is advisable to contact park management for specific accessibility inquiries to ensure a smooth visit.

Parking at McDowell Dam Recreation Area is generally accessible and convenient. The park offers ample parking spaces near the main facilities, including the beach and picnic areas. While there may not be specific fees for parking, visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by park management. The proximity of parking areas to the beach and other amenities ensures that visitors can easily access the park's attractions without a long walk.

McDowell Dam Recreation Area is not only a beautiful spot for outdoor activities but also offers interesting historical and natural insights. The dam itself is a significant engineering feat, providing water management and recreational opportunities. The area is home to various bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Additionally, the park's trails offer a chance to explore the local flora and fauna, providing a deeper connection with nature.

Near McDowell Dam Recreation Area, there are several attractions worth exploring. The Sakakawea Statue and the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum offer insights into local history. For outdoor enthusiasts, Sleepy Hollow Park and Cottonwood Park provide additional recreational spaces. The Dakota Zoo is another popular destination for families.

Basic Details

INParking

INBeige

IN1951 93rd St NE, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Restrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Bikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Car Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    Yes, this Beach provides free parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.

    Does Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area good for swimming?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered a good swimming beach.

    Does Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area have restrooms?

    No, this Beach does not have restrooms on or near the beach.

    Is Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Fishing, Paddleboarding.

    Does Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Mcdowell Dam Recreation Area good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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