Epping, ND – Lewis and Clark State Park marks its 50th anniversary with a year-long celebration, made possible by the generosity of its community. The park has served as an outdoor haven in northwest North Dakota for recreation, education, and family fun for half a century.
Williams County and the City of Williston’s Convention and Visitors Bureau have joined in the celebration with generous monetary contributions to help the park bring unique and memorable events to its visitors. In addition, many local businesses are donating monetarily, or giving supplies and food to support the events. Employees of local businesses have also committed to volunteering of their time. A list of those supporting the anniversary celebration in these additional ways can be found below.
Monthly events to commemorate this golden anniversary, from themed hikes and educational programs to fishing tournaments and a dino dig, offer a variety of ways for people to connect with the park and create lasting memories.
“We sincerely value our partnerships within the Williams County area and with this support we aim to make our anniversary year an amazing one,” says Park Manager for Lewis and Clark State Park, Katie Ogden. “We are excited to celebrate this milestone with a series of events throughout the year that will showcase the park’s natural beauty, rich history, and the vital role it plays in our community.”
Visitors can further enhance their experience at the park with a hike along the Coteau trail with its new boardwalk for an up-close look at wetland animals, or make use of convenient on-site rental equipment, including kayaks, canoes and paddleboards.
Lewis and Clark State Park is still accepting donations to enhance the 50th Anniversary celebration for visitors. The park is also seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help with various tasks during the events to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. To discuss these ongoing opportunities, contact lcsp@nd.gov.
For more information about Lewis and Clark State Park and the 50th anniversary events, follow the park on Facebook or download a printable schedule of events here.
In addition to Williams County and Williston’s CVB, the park received contributions from Williston Community Builders, Williston API, Santanen Oilfield Services, Williston STAR Fund, Mountrail-Williams Electric Cooperative, Basin Electric, Epping Rural Fire Department, ND Fishing Tournaments LLC, Cashwise Foods, OK Distributing, Cloverdale, Connect Us Therapy, Milestone Health Partners, and Coca-Cola Williston.
The mission of the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department is to enrich generations through experiences that connect people and places.