ND Parks and Recreation - Business and Grants

The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department announces that the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians Department of Natural Resources’ Sky Chief Park Trail bridge linkage project has received the 2026 Tom Petri Recreational Trails Program Annual Achievement Award for Accessibility Enhancement from the Coalition for Recreational Trails.

The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, is highlighting the importance of stopping the spread of Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) during the week of May 3-9. Nuisance, or invasive, species are aggressive species that pose serious threats to local ecosystems and water quality. Park visitors play a vital role in helping prevent the spread of invasive species by cleaning gear, draining water from watercraft, fully drying gear, disposing of bait properly and following important guidelines from park staff.

North Dakota Parks and Recreation is has launched a new, streamlined online donation process for its popular tree program and newly introduced bench program. The updated system allows residents and visitors to conveniently honor loved ones or commemorate special moments while enhancing the beauty and accessibility of North Dakota’s state parks.

Reservations for Pembina Gorge State Park and Rough Rider State Park near Medora will open May 5, ahead of their respective openings on June 9 and July 7. Visitors are encouraged to map out their trips and secure their preferred dates once reservations become available. 

The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department Summer Day camps registration opens on May 1, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. These camps give opportunities for kids across the state to explore, learn, and connect with the outdoors. The program has expanded this year from two locations to five: Lake Metigoshe State Park, Turtle River State Park, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, Icelandic State Park, and Pembina Gorge State Park.