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Lake Sakakawea

Overview

Lake Sakakawea State Park offers a premier outdoor experience on the shores of one of the nation’s largest man-made reservoirs. Located near the impressive Garrison Dam, this park serves as a gateway to expansive water recreation and rugged prairie beauty. It is well-regarded for providing a peaceful yet active environment where the horizon seems to stretch forever across the North Dakota landscape. RV travelers often find themselves captivated by the scenic overlooks and the sheer scale of the water.

Location & Surroundings

Situated just north of Riverdale, ND, the park sits on the south shore of Lake Sakakawea. The surrounding topography features rolling hills and dramatic shorelines that provide a sense of isolation despite being easily accessible. The nearby Garrison Dam creates a unique geographic context, offering travelers a chance to see one of the most significant engineering feats in the region. The park’s position allows for unobstructed sunset views over the Missouri River basin.

Amenities & Park Features

The park is well-equipped for modern RVers, offering numerous sites with full hookups including water, sewer, and electricity. Visitors have access to clean comfort stations and a convenient dump station for added ease. Park features include:

  • A full-service marina with boat rentals
  • Multiple paved boat ramps for easy lake access
  • Dedicated fish cleaning stations
  • A well-stocked convenience store for camping essentials

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Anglers flock here for world-class walleye and northern pike fishing. The park also serves as the western terminus for the North Country National Scenic Trail, offering miles of hiking with stunning lake views. Nearby, the Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery provides an educational look at local aquatic life. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching opportunities throughout the park's diverse habitats or visit the nearby town of Riverdale for local history and charm.

Who This Park Is Best For

This destination is ideal for avid anglers and boaters who want direct access to deep-water fishing and sailing opportunities. It also appeals to long-distance hikers and families seeking a classic summer lake vacation with modern RV conveniences. If you appreciate wide-open spaces, the rhythmic sound of water against the shore, and peaceful prairie nights, this park fits your travel style perfectly. It is a must-visit for those exploring the Great Plains.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• Lake
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Ramp
• Boat Rental
• Boat Marina
• Body Of Water (Lake Sakakawea)
• Horseshoes
• Playground
• Kayaking/Canoeing

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Day Max Stay (14)
• Tent Camping Allowed

- Other Amenities & Services

• Restroom and Showers

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Fishing
• Hiking
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Boating
• Marina
• Mountain Biking

- Facility

• Type (State Park)
• Partial Handicap Access

- Internet

• WiFi Hotspot
• WiFi Hotspots (1)

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (192)
• Max Length (35)
• Gravel Sites (96)
• Grass Sites (96)
• 30 Amp
• 50 Amp
• Water (192)
• Electric (192)
• Max Amps (50)
• Back-ins (35 x 35)

User Reviews

Elk Killer

August 06, 2025

Found an old face washcloth on top of my shower curtain when I arrived which would mean they didn’t change the shower curtain and clean it. Then I got back to my house and had tons of bed bug bites on me… Apparently room 08 had bed bugs… Overall not a great experience.

Ona Hanson-Gustafson

July 01, 2024

We stayed for a family wedding. I needed a handicapped accessible room. Beat any other room we’ve stayed in for a long time. Large, clean, easy access to a restaurant.

Leah Joritz

September 05, 2023

TV did not work. No glass by sink. No cups for coffee pot or coffee. Inside of coffee pot was layers of dust. Bugs fell out of bath towel. Bug in one bed Suitcase stand was broken. Walls were paper thin/heard people on other side of us. Reservation for two nights; only stayed one night; could not stand to stay another night.

Betsy Todd

August 09, 2023

Go ahead, keep looking for something better and keep this little secret place safe! This is my go to comfy spot. The shower....chef's kiss, you'll be inspired to go and change yours at home. The little grilling area and picnic table is a home touch that shouldn't go wasted. Mike will make you feel as if you've been coming here your whole life and has a rental for everything! Great beds, not just hotel quality, real beds. After a good water day and a hike, boom! UNFORGETTABLE SUNSETS, right on the water. Walk across the parking lot for a drink and dinner, a little walk or sandy car ride to the coffee shop and little gas station. It's perfect for a small party or that private place to just be at ease and next to nature. Kid friendly, be a good neighbor. A very neat drive to the dam, fish hatchery, a beautiful view of the divided lake sides. The back porch is something you will not find anywhere else in ND unless you rent a cabin and even then it will not be as authentic. There's a dollar general not far away, the state park is only a 15 min scenic drive away. Boat ramp access and campground just a small drive down the hill. Swimming and beach access to see the cliffs are within walking distance. Has a larger mini fridge, microwave, decent tv, BOMB AC, spacious bathroom, desk area, dining table in room. No matter what your adventure is, you won't regret staying here. Happy Fishing!!!

Pam Handley

June 03, 2019

This was an awesome place to stay for 2 months. Nate and Mike treat you like family!! Veronica kept my room up as well. The Iron Oar next door was an added plus with great food and awesome help from Annie, Angel and Olivia. Staying close to the lake and the wildlife near by was a BIG bonus!! Thanks for the great stay!!

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Map for Lake Sakakawea

Contact information