During its lengthy course through the south central corner of the state, the Sheyenne River transects a variety of North Dakota terrains. Rolling hills, wide bottomland forests, open prairies and rich agricultural land, each with its own unique characteristics and beauty, blend along the river’s banks to create a continuous mosaic of scenery.
Many recreational opportunities are offered along this lengthy, peaceful river system. The diversity of natural features along its meandering path is an attraction to many, as visitors can see terrain seldom associated with North Dakota. Sandhills, abrupt river banks and noble stands of forest invite photographers, hikers and sightseers to spend a day marveling at the innate beauty of the river valley.
Two large tracts of public lands (Lonetree Wildlife Managment Area and Sheyenne National Grassland) and numerous small parks and public land areas are located on the Sheyenne River in several counties which provide numerous recreational opportunities, from hiking, biking, camping, sightseeing, and bird watching, to hunting and fishing.
Although the river extends through North Dakota for 280 miles, only a few segments are recommended for canoeing. The entire stretch has many hazards and lowhead dams. Canoeists, however, can enjoy the many wonders of the river and river valley along a few selected stretches.
Three stretches are recommended: a 22 mile stretch southeast of Cooperstown, a 14 mile stretch from the Baldhill Dam to Chautauqua Park in Valley City, and the river through Fort Ransom State Park (FRSP). These stretches provide easy canoeing on fairly slow waters in a tranquil setting. The scenic value and wildlife viewing are very good.
U.S. Geological Survey: http://nd.water.usgs.gov/canoeing/index.html.
