North Dakota Parks and Recreation

Welcome, Wanderers

North Dakota is the land of endless adventures, and we invite you to discover the unique beauty and history of our state. You will find exciting recreational opportunities along our lakes, rivers, unexpected wooded valleys, prairie vistas and rugged Badlands. From secluded campsites to cozy cabins, there’s a perfect spot for you to unwind and make memories in North Dakota State Parks.

Whether you are a returning visitor or new to the state, your journey starts here!

Upcoming Events

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Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 07:45 am - Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 09:00 am
Categories: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

Get ready for the return of the 2026 Cardio & Coffee Trail Running Series at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park! This one-of-a-kind event blends outdoor fitness with the rich flavors of specialty roast coffee, making your morning run an energizing and educational experience. We’ve transformed a typical trail run into an unforgettable adventure on the scenic and legendary trails of the park.

Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 09:00 am - 05:00 pm
Categories: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

Step back in time and explore the story of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park during this immersive living history event.

Friday, May 8, 2026 at 09:30 pm - Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 10:30 pm
Categories: Fort Stevenson State Park

Step into a whimsical world on this fairy-themed hike. Wander through a kaleidoscope of glowing objects that light up the trail for a magical experience. Held over two evenings, join us either day or both for this fun experience.

Sunday, May 10, 2026 at 01:00 pm - 03:00 pm
Categories: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

This Mother’s Day, treat Mom to a memorable adventure at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park with a family-friendly hike filled with fun, laughter, and a little bit of Disney magic!

Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 10:00 am - Monday, May 25, 2026 at 04:00 pm
Categories: Fort Stevenson State Park

Look to the skies and let the fun take flight at Sky Fest! Head to Fort Stevenson State Park on May 23, 24, & 25, from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM daily. Fly your own kite or sit back and watch professional kite flyers launch some of the largest and most impressive kites around.

Recent News

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Registration for North Dakota Parks and Recreation’s Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) youth safety courses located across the state is now open. NDPRD offers the hands-on courses in an effort to increase OHV safety awareness and prevent accidents.

Bismarck, ND – The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department is seeking trail project applications for the Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The application form will open on April 1 and must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on April 13, 2026. The RTP is an 80/20 matching grant program that provides funding for both motorized and non-motorized recreational trail projects. The RTP is administered at the state level through the NDPRD and federally through the Federal Highway Administration. 

BISMARCK, N.D. — Ring in the new year on state park trails with a special Last Day Hike on Wed., Dec. 31 at Cross Ranch State Park and First Day Hikes on Thurs., Jan. 1 at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and Fort Stevenson State Park.  

North Dakota Parks and Recreation also launches its 2026 Hiking Challenge today within the Outer Spatial app, encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore the state’s natural beauty through all four seasons. 

With fresh snowfall across the state, North Dakota’s snowmobile trails officially open today, Dec. 1. This early start to the season makes it a perfect time for riders to get out and enjoy more than 2,800 miles of groomed state trails. The 13 trail systems, maintained by dedicated members of Snowmobile North Dakota, will remain open until April as long as trail segments have a minimum of four inches of packed snow. 

Bismarck, ND – The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce Michelle Cunningham as the new Park Manager at Turtle River State Park. Cunningham began her transition into the role earlier this month and is now fully on-site.

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