9 Most Gorgeous Lakes In North Dakota, USA

1. Red Willow Lake

Red Willow Lake is a natural lake located in the county of Griggs in North Dakota. It is an endorheic lake, which means it is not fed by any external water body, i.e. streams or rivers. Instead, its water comes from the natural spring and rain. With an area of 149.2 acres (60.38 hectares) and a depth of 11.1 feet (3.38 meters), it is ideal for sailing, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. In fact, the lake has been a recreational area since 1882. Today, it is one of the lake resorts in North Dakota that is popular among locals and tourists alike.

Red Willow Lake

Address: Griggs County, North Dakota

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

2. Lake Oahe

Lake Oahe is a man-made reservoir that originates from central South Dakota to North Dakota. Stretching a total length of 231 miles (371.8 km), many recreation areas can be found along its shores. Visitors come to the area to see the lake and indulge in activities like boating and fishing. Lake Oahe is rich in bass, salmon, pike, and walleye, among others. Many fishermen use boats to fish and they have their favorite fishing ground along the shore. There are marinas, picnic areas, camping grounds, hiking trails, and hunting grounds, as well.

Lake Oahe

Address: South and North Dakota, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

3. Lake Upsilon

Escape the heat and noise of the city and spend a weekend at Upsilon Lake, one of the loveliest natural lakes in North Dakota. Located in the county of Rolette in the Turtle Mountains, visitors will have the privacy they need and a chance to experience serenity. Despite the solitude, visitors will never get bored during their stay. Lake Upsilon is a favorite retreat for anglers and those who love water sports. Plenty of fish thrive in the lake and fishers never come home empty-handed. There are pontoon rides, jet ski rides, swimming, boating, and a lot more activities that are fun and engaging. Families come to this place for a leisurely day of bonding moments and great memories.

Lake Upsilon

Address: Rolette County, Noth Dakota, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

4. Lake Sakakawea

Lake Sakakawea is the biggest man-made lake in North Dakota, which also serves as the reservoir for the water that the Garrison Dam collects. Its shoreline is 180 miles (289.68 km) long, and 14miles (23 km) wide. With its scenic beauty, rich fish population, and a depth that is ideal for boating activities, this lake has become a popular destination for anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Dotting its shores are several state parks, wildlife sanctuary, campsites, boat ramps, swimming areas, surfing areas, restaurants, cafes, and bars. A visit to Lake Sakakawea means an array of fun and exciting activities.

Lake Sakakawea

Address: North Dakota, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

5. Lake Elsie

Lake Elsie is a long but narrow lake in Richland County, North Dakota, USA. Fed by a natural spring, the lake has a surface area of 376.8 acres (153.21 hectares) and a maximum depth of 23.6 feet (7.19 meters). People come here to stay close to nature and to engage in some water activities. Boating, swimming, hiking, and strolling along the shore are popular activities here. Anglers spend time on the lake to catch fish that abounds in the area. Near the bank of the lake are campsites, grassland, and prairies.

Lake Elsie

Address: Richmond County, North Dakota, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

6. Court Lake

The scenic beauty of Court Lake makes it one of the loveliest lakes in North Dakota. Located in Benson County, this lake is a favorite spot for people who enjoy fishing. Several species of fishes thrive in this lake. Aside from fishing, the shore is a great place for strolling and for enjoying the seascape. Visitors can go camping, hiking, swimming, or simply admiring the beauty of nature in and around the lake.

Court Lake

Address: Brnsn County, North Dakota, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours(daily)

7. Harker Lake

Harker Lake is located in the County of Kidder in Dawson. Because it is surrounded by marshes and wetlands that comprised of the National Wildlife Refuge, access to the area is quite difficult. It is, however, a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers. Birds come here to feed on the rich marshland. Mallards, Canada geese, pheasants, Canadian geese, grouse, and snow geese can be spotted in the area, as they stay here for nine months every year. If you are lucky, you will be able to see a white-tailed deer or a coyote.

Harker Lake

Address: Kidder County, Dawson, North Dakota

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

8. Lake Jessie

Located in the county of Griggs, Lake Jessie is rich in fishes of different species. People who love fishing come here to unwind and relax. In 1825, a French astronomer who wanted to study the physical features of North America camped in the area where the lake is located. He married a senator’s daughter named Jessie and so, he named the lake Jessie after his wife. Today, the area has been declared as a historic site. People come here not just to fish, but also to view the impressive marker that describes the events that took place here. Aside from fishing spots, there are also campsites around the lake.

Lake Jessie

Address: Griggs County, North Dakota, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

9. Lake Ibsen

When it comes to size, Lake Ibsen is considered small compared to the other lakes in North Dakota. Located in Benson County, it is fed by the Little Coulee stream from Hurricane Lake. Excellent camping sites are found near the lake, but if you are hesitant to sleep in a tent or in a recreational vehicle or RV, you can easily find accommodation nearby. Fishing, swimming, and boating are just among the many water activities that you can experience and enjoy at Lake Ibsen.

Lake Ibsen

Address: Benson County, North Dakota, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Visit the enchanting lakes of North Dakota

Visit North Dakota and explore the most gorgeous lakes in the area. Since these bodies of water are near each other, you will be able to cover them all in one trip. These lakes are teeming with fish that even the most inexperienced angler can boast of a good catch. Some are perfect for sailing and boat fishing, while others are great for swimming and surfing. For stay, there are lake resorts kitted out with mod cons. If you love outdoors, there are campsites near the lakes.