Lake Sakakawea State Park - United States

About Lake Sakakawea State Park

RV quick facts for Lake Sakakawea State Park

Featured RV rentals for Lake Sakakawea State Park

Travel Trailer in Dickinson

2022 • New listing

$160 USD /night

Best time to visit Lake Sakakawea State Park

Late May through early September is the prime window, when daytime highs are warm, the marina is fully operational, and all campground loops, beaches, and boat ramps are open. July and August bring peak boating and fishing weather, but also the busiest weekends, so reservations are strongly advised. Shoulder visits in mid-September and early October offer cooler nights, fewer crowds, and good fall fishing, though some services begin to wind down. Winters are long and frigid on the northern plains, with snow and ice limiting RV access from late fall into spring.

Things to do at Lake Sakakawea State Park

• Boating and fishing on Lake Sakakawea

  RV parking available

  The park's full-service marina is the main hub for boating and fishing on one of the largest reservoirs in the United States. Anglers target walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and chinook salmon. RV-friendly parking is available near the boat ramps.

• North Country National Scenic Trail western terminus Easy

  RV parking available

  Lake Sakakawea State Park marks the western end of the North Country National Scenic Trail, a long-distance footpath that stretches across the northern United States. Day hikers can sample the trail directly from the park. Trailhead parking is suitable for most RVs. nps.gov/noco/index.htm

• Swim beach and day-use area Easy

  RV parking available

  A designated swim beach on the Lake Sakakawea shoreline gives families a sandy spot to cool off in summer. Picnic areas with tables and shelters sit nearby. Day-use parking accommodates trucks and tow vehicles.

• Park hiking and nature trails Easy

  RV parking available

  Several short prairie and shoreline trails wind through the park, offering views of the lake, native grasses, and wildlife such as deer and waterfowl. The terrain is gentle and well suited for casual walks. Trailheads are reachable from the main campground loops.

• Garrison Dam tour and overlook Easy

  RV parking available

  Just south of the park, Garrison Dam is one of the largest earthen dams in the country and created Lake Sakakawea. Visitors can view the dam, powerhouse, and spillway from designated overlooks. The Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery is also a short drive away.

• Cycling the park roads Easy

  RV parking available

  Paved park roads and a connector path provide easy cycling for RV travelers who bring bikes along. Routes link the campground, marina, and day-use areas. Traffic is generally light outside peak summer weekends.

• Wildlife and bird watching

  RV parking available

  The mix of open prairie, shoreline, and sheltered bays attracts pelicans, cormorants, raptors, and prairie songbirds. Quiet mornings near the water are best for sightings. Pull-offs along the park road allow easy stops for RVs.