Opening in 2026 as North Dakota’s 14th state park campground, Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area will officially become a state park. This park invites visitors to explore one of the state’s most dramatic and diverse landscapes. A newly constructed campground sits near an extensive trail system open to hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and OHV use with more than 16 miles of trails to discover. The region is also connected by an extensive snowmobile trail system. The Pembina River winds through the gorge, offering kayaking opportunities when river conditions allow, with rentals available seasonally.
Defined by steep valley cliffs, quiet prairies, and pocketed wetlands, Pembina Gorge is surrounded by the largest continuous, undisturbed forest in North Dakota. This rugged terrain supports exceptional biodiversity and is rich in wildlife, history, and paleontological resources.
From sweeping views and unforgettable sunsets to miles of wooded trails, Pembina Gorge State Park offers both adventure and solitude in a landscape found nowhere else in North Dakota.
Watch for more details coming soon!
Trail Information:
Multi-Use Trail Map
In order to maintain a safe and sustainable trail system, we close the trails following a significant rain event to allow the water time to shed off the trail. By doing this, rutting is minimized on the tread and it takes less time for the trails to re-open. The goal is to avoid damage to the tread and long-term closures. We monitor the trails very closely and will open the trails again as soon as possible.
Download the OuterSpatial app for the most up-to-date trail status. You can also contact our team at (701) 549-2444 or check our Facebook page for updates.
Kayak the Pembina River and enjoy the amazing views of the Pembina Gorge. Our team can provide rentals Thursday through Sunday, with pick-up in Walhalla between 11 a.m. and noon. Please call (701) 265-4561 at least 24 hours in advance to make a reservation.
Rentals:
The Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area offers kayak rentals for $32/half day. Life jackets and paddles are provided with your rental. Kayaks need to be picked up and dropped off at our office located at 101 5th St in Walhalla, ND.
Transportation:
Transportation is not provided.
Route 1: Vang Bridge to Brick Mine Bridge
The route is 3.5 miles and takes 1-2 hours to travel.
Route 2: Vang Bridge to Riverside Park in Walhalla
This route is 10.75 miles and takes 4-6 hours to travel.
With the extensive trail system, the Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is a one-of-a-kind riding experience for Equestrians. Please note that all of the trails except Lady Slipper are also open OHVs, bikers, and hikers. Lady Slipper Trail is a non-motorized trail open to bikers, hikers, and horseback riders only.
What you need to know
Equestrian riders need to purchase a horse pass. Daily and annual options are available and are required per horse. Permits are available for purchase in the office or online here. The money generated from these fees goes towards maintaining horse trails.
Daily fee: $6/horse
Annual fee: $30/horse
- Bringing horses into North Dakota: Information on health certificates and tests can be found on the North Dakota Department of Agriculture's website, https://www.nd.gov/ndda/, under Animal Import Permits.
- Trail Maps: Multi-Use Trail Map
- All North Dakota State Park and Recreation Area trail maps are available in the OuterSpatial App.
Explore the Pembina Gorge on your ATV or dirt bike. The trailhead is located 1 mile north, 1 mile west, and ¼ mile north of the beautiful Walhalla Country Club.
Trail Maps:
There is no fee to use the new multi-use trail that is designed to accommodate non-motorized and motorized traffic, including the three classes of OHVs – dirt bikes, four wheelers and side-by-sides – which are 60 inches wide or less. Please review the following information:
• Current Registration and Liability Insurance is required
• Open to registered Class 1, 2, 3 OHVs (Max 60” Width)
• Motorized Vehicles must be insured
• Riders and Passengers under 18 must wear a DOT-approved helmet
• Ages 11 and younger cannot operate OHVs
• Ages 12-15 must have an OHV safety certificate
• Ages 16+ must have a valid Driver’s License
• Follow trail signage
• Respect private lands adjacent to the trail
• Wear proper riding gear
• Stay on the trail
All North Dakota State Park and Recreation Area trail maps are available in the OuterSpatial App.
Permitting, classes information and rules and regulations are available here.
Upcoming Events
View All Events
Contact Us
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area
OFFICE
101 5th St
Walhalla, ND 58282
TRAILHEAD
8 miles NW of Walhalla (directions)
(701) 549-2444
pgsra@nd.gov
.png)
