If you live in North Dakota you don’t have to go all the way to the coast to have a great beach vacation. You don’t even have to leave the state, actually, because miles and miles of coastline are waiting for you right at ND’s largest lake. This gorgeous lake has plenty of recreational areas, parks, and sandy beaches to enjoy on its own. Check it out and start making plans for your summer:
North Dakota’s largest lake is Lake Sakakawea. This massive body of water has more miles of coastline than the coast of California, believe it or not!
Lake Sakakawea State Park/Facebook
Lake Sakakawea is an outdoor recreational wonderland with plenty of parks, marinas, and resorts along the edges.
Lake Sakakawea State Park/Facebook
There are three state parks on Lake Sakakawea, which spans all the way from Garrison, ND to nearly Williston, ND. The parks are Fort Stevenson State Park, Lewis and Clark State Park, and of course Lake Sakakawea State Park.
NDPRD/Flickr
Along with the state parks there are also recreational areas. Each has its own list of amenities and most have sandy swimming beaches, docks, picnic shelters, campgrounds, and trails. The views from each are incredible as you look over the water and the distant buttes.
NDPRD/Flickr
Different areas of Lake Sakakawea have different notable landscapes. Places like Government Bay Recreation Area have awe-inspiring natural formations that tower up from the water and will make you feel like you’re not even in North Dakota, but somewhere along the ocean.
NDPRD/Flickr
Other areas have prairie hills with trails along the water that are quiet yet also teeming with life. They make for great hiking and camping destinations.
TheKarenD/Flickr
Of course, along with beaches that are great to lounge on or swim at, there is also lots of opportunities to take the boat out.
NDPRD/Flickr
Many marinas and docks exist within Lake Sakakawea. No matter if you plan on taking a boat out to fish, have a fun get together on the pontoon, paddle along in a canoe, or set sail in a sailboat, you’re in for a great time.
NDPRD/Flickr
A nice sunny summer day at Lake Sakakawea definitely rivals that of the coast - and it’s right here in the heart of North Dakota.
Fort Stevenson State Park/Facebook
Where is your favorite place to enjoy some beach time in North Dakota? Many people wouldn’t even think there are beaches here – and they’d be wrong! Here is a list of more beaches in ND that are perfect for your summer plans.
Lake Sakakawea State Park/Facebook
NDPRD/Flickr
TheKarenD/Flickr
Fort Stevenson State Park/Facebook
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
