Icelandic State Park - United States

About Icelandic State Park

RV quick facts for Icelandic State Park

Best time to visit Icelandic State Park

Late May through early September offers the warmest weather, full campground services, and access to the swim beach and boat ramp on Lake Renwick. July and August bring long daylight hours and peak use of water activities, while June features wildflowers and migratory birds in the Gunlogson Nature Preserve. September and early October are quieter shoulder-season months with cool nights, fall color along the Tongue River, and easier campsite availability for RV travelers.

Things to do at Icelandic State Park

• Lake Renwick Swim Beach and Boating Easy

  RV parking available

  Lake Renwick is the recreational heart of Icelandic State Park, with a sandy swim beach, a boat ramp, and a fishing pier on the south shore. RV visitors can park near the day-use area, launch small boats, or cast from shore for walleye, perch, and northern pike. Canoe and kayak use is popular in calm morning hours.

• Gunlogson State Nature Preserve Trail Easy

  RV parking available

  The Gunlogson Nature Preserve protects a rare old-growth riparian forest along the Tongue River inside the park. A network of level, looped interpretive trails leads through ferns, hardwoods, and spring wildflowers, with boardwalks over wet areas. The trailhead has parking suitable for tow vehicles after dropping an RV at the campsite.

• Pioneer Heritage Center Easy

  RV parking available

  The Pioneer Heritage Center is the park's indoor museum and outdoor historic village, interpreting the Icelandic, Norwegian, Czech, and Ukrainian heritage of northeastern North Dakota. Exhibits and restored buildings include an early schoolhouse, church, and pioneer homes. The center has a large paved lot that accommodates RVs and tow vehicles.

• Fishing on Lake Renwick Easy

  RV parking available

  Shore and boat fishing on Lake Renwick is a staple activity at Icelandic State Park. Anglers target walleye, yellow perch, northern pike, and panfish from the fishing pier, boat ramp area, and shoreline points. A valid North Dakota fishing license is required.

• Park Bike and Walking Paths Easy

  RV parking available

  Paved and gravel paths connect the campground, day-use area, beach, and Pioneer Heritage Center, making it easy to explore the park on foot or by bike. The routes are mostly flat and suitable for families. Bike racks are available at major trailheads and the visitor center.

• Birdwatching in the Tongue River Corridor Easy

  RV parking available

  The Tongue River corridor and Gunlogson Preserve make Icelandic State Park a strong birdwatching destination in the Red River Valley. Spring and early summer bring warblers, woodpeckers, and waterfowl, while fall migration produces raptors and shorebirds. Quiet morning walks on the preserve boardwalks offer the best viewing.

• Winter Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing Moderate

  In winter, park trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when snow cover allows. The RV campground is closed in winter, but day-use parking remains accessible for tow vehicles. Visitors should check conditions with park staff before heading out.