News
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.
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.
Bismarck, ND — North Dakota Parks and Recreation will host the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) in Bismarck for a three-day Trail Care School, September 2-5, 2025. This program offers local trail partners critical education and hands-on training in sustainable trail design and maintenance.