One of the unique ways to explore North Dakota is by water. The state not only has a large number of lakes but a number of prominent river systems that make great travel ways. Bring your own float or rent one from our parks, and get out and start paddling North Dakota’s best waterways.
Where to paddle
The Missouri River – From the Garrison Dam to Lake Oahe, the Missouri River is excellent for recreation. Be aware this river can have high currents and can get rough when the winds are high. Cross Ranch State Park has facilities, camping, cabins and rentals available. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is also located along this river and features a kayak launch near the group tent site.
Sheyenne River – This tributary of the Red River, is a great place to paddle with family. The gentle current brings users through the scenic river valley. Facilities, camping, cabins, and rentals are available at Fort Ransom State Park.
Lake Sakakawea – This 368,000-acre lake is the third largest man-made reservoir in the nation made from the damming of the Missouri River. Facilities, camping, cabins, and rentals are available at Fort Stevenson State Park, Lake Sakakawea State Park, and Lewis and Clark State Park.
Lake Metigoshe – This motorized lake is excellent for water recreation. Located in the Turtle Mountains, this lake gives paddlers beautiful views of the aspen forest surrounding the lake. User facilities, camping, cabins, and rentals are available at Lake Metigoshe State Park.
School Section Lake – This is a non-motorized lake located within Lake Metigoshe State Park. Surrounded completely by state park land, this lake offers great opportunities for viewing wildlife such as western painted turtles, double crested cormorants, red necked grebes, buffleheads, loons, great blue herons, pelicans and many other aquatic species. There's a portage on the north side of the lake that leads to Eramosh Lake, which borders Canada and provides access to the Osprey cabin. Facilities, camping, cabins, and rentals are available at Lake Metigoshe State Park.
Lake Renwick – This 204-acre reservoir was created by damming the Tongue River. This smaller lake is excellent for families and beginner paddlers. Facilities, camping, cabins, and rentals are available at Icelandic State Park.
The Pembina River – The spring and early summer are the best time to enjoy the Pembina River, as the river is too low to paddle in the late summer to early fall.
Devils Lake – This lake has varied significantly in size throughout the years but is currently the largest natural body of water in North Dakota. The lake is ideal for paddlers that are more advanced and paddling anglers. Facilities, camping, and cabins are located at Grahams Island State Park.
Beaver Lake – This 968-acre lake is great for all levels of paddling. Facilities, camping, cabins and rentals are located at Beaver Lake State Park.
Where to Rent
Kayaks
$32/half day or $50/full day
Beaver Lake State Park
Cross Ranch State Park
Fort Ransom State Park
Fort Stevenson State Park
Icelandic State Park
Lake Metigoshe State Park
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area (by appointment only)
Canoeing
$32/half day or $50/full day
Cross Ranch State Park
Fort Stevenson State Park
Icelandic State Park
Lake Metigoshe State Park
Stand-Up Paddleboards
$8/hour - $50/day
Fort Stevenson State Park
Icelandic State Park
Lake Metigoshe State Park
Canoe & Kayak Transport
Cross Ranch State Park provides a kayak/canoe run down the Missouri River, which is a nine-mile trip from the city of Washburn to the Sanger boat landing. The amount of time the run takes depends on how fast the user paddles and the speed of the river. The park charges a transportation fee of $30, with an additional $15 if another vehicle is required for transportation. The park can only transport its rental equipment. Please call (701) 794-3731 to make arrangements.