North Dakota is probably one of the last places people think of when they picture beaches. Being in the geographical middle of the North American continent does put us pretty far away from any coasts. However, considering our Lake Sakakawea has more miles of coastline than all of California, you know there are bound to be some great beaches along its shores.
Luckily for beachgoers in the Peace Garden State, these beaches are widely unknown outside of the locals, which makes them the perfect secret sandy destinations. Lake Sakakawea is one of the top, best swimming beaches in North Dakota that will make your summer complete:
Lake Sakakawea is one of the largest man-made lakes in all of America, the largest lake in North Dakota, and surpasses the state of California in length of coastline.
NDPRD/Flickr This massive lake was the result of the Garrison Dam. Today, multiple state parks and recreation areas take advantage of this huge body of water by sitting on its shores. One of these is the Lake Sakakawea State Park, located about a mile north of Pick City, ND.
This particular state park is extremely popular with people who love the water.
NDPRD/Flickr
A huge marina and plenty of boat ramps are available here, making it perfect for boaters, sailers, and fishers.
NDPRD/Flickr Tons of people love to head out on the massive lake and enjoy it from on its waters. Lake Sakakawea State Park makes it easy to do that, keeping the park busy all summer long.
Beachgoers and swimmers also love this park for the fantastic sandy beach.
NDPRD/Flickr A swimming beach is one of the main attractions of the park. It doesn’t get much better than the plenty of space to set up a chair and just enjoy the sounds of the small waves, or the large area open for swimmers.
The beach is right by tent campgrounds that create an incredible opportunity for a camping, beach-going weekend trip.
NDPRD/Flickr There are multiple picnic areas around the beach as well as a tent campground not far down that would be the best spot for a summer lake camping trip. Plus, the beach is not too far from the park’s Shoreline Trail. That hiking trail is great for a stroll alongside the lake for some really lovely views.
This beach is by far one of the best summer destinations in the entire state, bringing a bit of the coastal life right to North Dakota.
NDPRD/Flickr
This secret beach in ND is located on the east side of Lake Sakakawea State Park. For a full map and more information about the park, visit the North Dakota Parks & Recreation website. If you’re looking for more beaches in North Dakota that might be closer to your area, check out this list!
NDPRD/Flickr
This massive lake was the result of the Garrison Dam. Today, multiple state parks and recreation areas take advantage of this huge body of water by sitting on its shores. One of these is the Lake Sakakawea State Park, located about a mile north of Pick City, ND.
Tons of people love to head out on the massive lake and enjoy it from on its waters. Lake Sakakawea State Park makes it easy to do that, keeping the park busy all summer long.
A swimming beach is one of the main attractions of the park. It doesn’t get much better than the plenty of space to set up a chair and just enjoy the sounds of the small waves, or the large area open for swimmers.
There are multiple picnic areas around the beach as well as a tent campground not far down that would be the best spot for a summer lake camping trip. Plus, the beach is not too far from the park’s Shoreline Trail. That hiking trail is great for a stroll alongside the lake for some really lovely views.
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Address: Lake Sakakawea State Park, Pick City, ND 58545, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Lake Sakakawea in ND June 09, 2022 Katie Lawrence Where can I find a secret beach in North Dakota? Considering the fact that North Dakota isn’t a coastal state, pretty much all of our beaches are secret beaches. After all, most people wouldn’t expect to find a waterfront oasis in a state that borders Canada! If you’re looking for a secret beach in North Dakota, one of our favorites is tucked away on Lake Metigoshe. This gorgeous spot boasts pearly white sands and crystal-clear waters, and it’s also popular among boating enthusiasts and anglers. Plus, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery that provide ample shade on balmy summer days. What is there to do around Lake Sakakawea? There’s so much to do both on and near Lake Sakakawea - after all, it has more miles of coastline than California! It’s one of the largest man-made lakes in America, and a multitude of parks are situated on its shores. A large marina with several boat ramps appeal to sailors, and families flock to the sandy beaches to splash around beneath the summer sun. Just steps away from the beach, a tent campground allows parkgoers to fall asleep listening to the sound of the water gently meandering along. What are some of the best waterparks in North Dakota? When it comes to the best waterparks in North Dakota, it’s hard to beat Splashers of the South Seas. Located at the Canad Inn in Great Forks, this 40,000-square-foot indoor oasis features several pools, a relaxing lazy river, heart-pounding slides, a hot tub just for adults, private cabanas, and concessions. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day! Another North Dakota waterpark we love is Shipwreck Bay Water Playland in Fargo. Centered around a massive pirate ship, this family-friendly destination boasts five slides and a large swimming pool. So much fun!
The OIYS Visitor Center
Lake Sakakawea in ND
June 09, 2022
Katie Lawrence
Where can I find a secret beach in North Dakota? Considering the fact that North Dakota isn’t a coastal state, pretty much all of our beaches are secret beaches. After all, most people wouldn’t expect to find a waterfront oasis in a state that borders Canada! If you’re looking for a secret beach in North Dakota, one of our favorites is tucked away on Lake Metigoshe. This gorgeous spot boasts pearly white sands and crystal-clear waters, and it’s also popular among boating enthusiasts and anglers. Plus, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery that provide ample shade on balmy summer days. What is there to do around Lake Sakakawea? There’s so much to do both on and near Lake Sakakawea - after all, it has more miles of coastline than California! It’s one of the largest man-made lakes in America, and a multitude of parks are situated on its shores. A large marina with several boat ramps appeal to sailors, and families flock to the sandy beaches to splash around beneath the summer sun. Just steps away from the beach, a tent campground allows parkgoers to fall asleep listening to the sound of the water gently meandering along. What are some of the best waterparks in North Dakota? When it comes to the best waterparks in North Dakota, it’s hard to beat Splashers of the South Seas. Located at the Canad Inn in Great Forks, this 40,000-square-foot indoor oasis features several pools, a relaxing lazy river, heart-pounding slides, a hot tub just for adults, private cabanas, and concessions. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day! Another North Dakota waterpark we love is Shipwreck Bay Water Playland in Fargo. Centered around a massive pirate ship, this family-friendly destination boasts five slides and a large swimming pool. So much fun!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Considering the fact that North Dakota isn’t a coastal state, pretty much all of our beaches are secret beaches. After all, most people wouldn’t expect to find a waterfront oasis in a state that borders Canada! If you’re looking for a secret beach in North Dakota, one of our favorites is tucked away on Lake Metigoshe. This gorgeous spot boasts pearly white sands and crystal-clear waters, and it’s also popular among boating enthusiasts and anglers. Plus, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery that provide ample shade on balmy summer days.
What is there to do around Lake Sakakawea?
There’s so much to do both on and near Lake Sakakawea - after all, it has more miles of coastline than California! It’s one of the largest man-made lakes in America, and a multitude of parks are situated on its shores. A large marina with several boat ramps appeal to sailors, and families flock to the sandy beaches to splash around beneath the summer sun. Just steps away from the beach, a tent campground allows parkgoers to fall asleep listening to the sound of the water gently meandering along.
What are some of the best waterparks in North Dakota?
When it comes to the best waterparks in North Dakota, it’s hard to beat Splashers of the South Seas. Located at the Canad Inn in Great Forks, this 40,000-square-foot indoor oasis features several pools, a relaxing lazy river, heart-pounding slides, a hot tub just for adults, private cabanas, and concessions. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day! Another North Dakota waterpark we love is Shipwreck Bay Water Playland in Fargo. Centered around a massive pirate ship, this family-friendly destination boasts five slides and a large swimming pool. So much fun!
