Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Icelandic
Overview
Icelandic State Park offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty in northeastern North Dakota. Established to preserve **Icelandic pioneer history**, this destination provides a serene escape for RV travelers seeking relaxation and education. Situated on the shores of Lake Renwick, the park serves as a hub for outdoor recreation and historical exploration. Visitors can explore the **Gunlogson State Nature Preserve**, which protects a rare piece of the original state landscape and remains a focal point of the park experience.
Location & Surroundings
Located just five miles west of Cavalier, ND, the park is defined by its diverse landscape of **deciduous woodlands** and prairie meadows. The most prominent feature is **Lake Renwick**, a 160-acre reservoir that provides a cool oasis in the Pembina River Valley. The surrounding area is relatively flat, making it easy to navigate with a large rig, yet the dense timber along the river creates a secluded, sheltered atmosphere that feels worlds away from the open plains of the region.
Amenities & Park Features
Travelers will find a variety of camping options, including **full-hookup RV sites** that accommodate modern rigs with ease. The park features well-maintained facilities to ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors. Key features include:
- Modern restrooms and clean shower facilities.
- The **Pioneer Heritage Center** with engaging historical exhibits.
- A dedicated swimming beach and multiple picnic areas.
These amenities provide the necessary comforts while maintaining the park's rustic and natural charm.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the park boundaries, the town of Cavalier offers local shops and dining experiences. Boating and **fishing for northern pike** are popular activities on the lake, with boat ramps readily accessible for visitors. Nature enthusiasts should not miss the **Gunlogson Arboretum**, which features miles of hiking trails through rare woodland habitats. Additionally, the nearby Pembina County Historical Museum provides further insight into the region's deep agricultural roots and the hardy settlers who shaped the local community.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal choice for **nature enthusiasts** and birdwatchers who want to see rare species in their natural habitat. It is also perfect for **families looking for a quiet retreat** with educational opportunities for children. Because of its spacious sites and calm atmosphere, it is a great fit for long-distance RVers traveling through the northern plains who need a peaceful, well-equipped place to rest and recharge while experiencing the unique history of North Dakota.
Amenities
- Tenting
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Rentals
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Ahmed Shalaby أحمد شلبي
Who told you that Fall is not the best time to be there? 😃 it was my first time ever visiting this place and I’m impressed by everything, the atmosphere and how it looks clean and beautiful. Yes, a lot of activities are being deactivated for winterising, but you can still have some fun with riding bikes, hiking, BBQ and camping.
Heather Mitchell
Great park with clean swimming area with a consession stand and equipment rentals. Numerous hiking trails and paved roads for biking. We caught fish off the dock & shore. Most campsites have good tree cover. Campsite 80 (South) had lots of trees & privacy. The heritage center was full of local and regional history. The park staff & rangers were extremely nice & friendly. Nearby is a golf course in Cavalier and Pembina Gorge and Wallhalla is about 30 minutes away. A great park for outdoor activities. The bath houses are clean, modern & functional.
Alex Dralle
Amazing clean, quiet, and well kept campground with a sand beach, fun beginner friendly hiking trails, and excellent bathrooms/showers. Staff on site and very friendly!
H Walker
Beautifully maintained and very clean. You may not be able to find kindling because it is soo well managed. Great fishing, playgrounds, showers, quiet evenings. 10 of the 10 would recommend and return.
Scott Dixon
Great camping with an excellent historical village right inside the park! Our campsite was spacious, well maintained and quiet. There are hiking trails, boating and swimming, all of which will earn this campground at least 4 stars. It’s the historical museum and Icelandic village that really makes this place a 5-star place to stay. What most reviewers have missed is that the visitor center has a superb, modern, museum that rivals those at any National Park. After the museum, ask the Ranger for a key to the historic buildings brought here from around the county. Each is meant to represent different groups of settlers to this part of North Dakota. An Icelandic Church, a community center, log cabin and one-room school house are the highlights. We felt as though we got to better understand this place and its heritage based on the high quality of the museum and grounds. Make this a priority stop.