Upcoming Events
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Step back in time and experience life on the prairie during Sodbuster Days, an annual tradition at Fort Ransom State Park! This immersive, family-friendly event offers a hands-on glimpse into North Dakota’s homesteading and pioneer days.
Celebrate the magic of the holidays, summertime style, at Fort Ransom State Park’s annual Christmas in July, happening July 18-19!
Calling all young anglers! Kids age 17 and under are invited to show off their fishing skills at this fun-filled derby held at the de Trobriand Marina in Fort Stevenson State Park.
Pedals and Popsicles is back! This ranger led, approx. 1 mile-long bike ride will start at the Visitor Center and will take you on paved bike paths and unpaved trails through the park. We will end at the amphitheater where there will be popsicles waiting to be enjoyed.
Experience the magic of the night sky at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park’s Star Parties! Join us at Cavalry Square / Parade Ground from 10:00 PM to 12:30 AM for an unforgettable stargazing adventure. Arrive early to claim a great observation spot—sunset is at 9:30 PM, so you can watch the sky transform before darkness fully sets in.
Recent News
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The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with North Dakota Council on the Arts, has selected three artists for the 2026 Artist in Residency Program.
The following artists were selected to complete their residencies in these state parks:
- Painter and Muralist Nicole Gagner of Bismarck – Icelandic State Park July 20-29, 2026
- Art Educator and Painter Lillian Stegman of Cavalier – Lake Metigoshe State Park Aug. 11-17, 2026
- Artisan craftsman and Eco-artist Frederick Burke of Linton – Fort Stevenson State Park Jan. 13-19, 2027
North Dakota Parks and Recreation announces new trails and outdoor recreation projects funded by Recreational Trails Program grants.
The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department announces that the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians Department of Natural Resources’ Sky Chief Park Trail bridge linkage project has received the 2026 Tom Petri Recreational Trails Program Annual Achievement Award for Accessibility Enhancement from the Coalition for Recreational Trails.
The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, is highlighting the importance of stopping the spread of Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) during the week of May 3-9. Nuisance, or invasive, species are aggressive species that pose serious threats to local ecosystems and water quality. Park visitors play a vital role in helping prevent the spread of invasive species by cleaning gear, draining water from watercraft, fully drying gear, disposing of bait properly and following important guidelines from park staff.
North Dakota Parks and Recreation is has launched a new, streamlined online donation process for its popular tree program and newly introduced bench program. The updated system allows residents and visitors to conveniently honor loved ones or commemorate special moments while enhancing the beauty and accessibility of North Dakota’s state parks.