News
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.
BISMARCK, N.D. — Campers eager to explore two of North Dakota’s most scenic destinations can begin planning their summer and fall getaways. The reservation window for campsites at Pembina Gorge State Park and Rough Rider State Park opens Tuesday, May 5, 2026. Visitors are encouraged to map out their trips and secure their preferred dates once reservations become available.
The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department Summer Day camps registration opens on May 1, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. These camps give opportunities for kids across the state to explore, learn, and connect with the outdoors. The program has expanded this year from two locations to five: Lake Metigoshe State Park, Turtle River State Park, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, Icelandic State Park, and Pembina Gorge State Park.
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.