North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department

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Bismarck, ND
North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department

Welcome, Wanderers! Discover the unique beauty and history of our great state at 15 destination properties.

The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department is the state agency charged with administering selected parks and recreation areas that are deemed to have state-wide or regional significance. In addition, the department has responsibility for the following functions:

* Off-highway vehicle planning and safety program
* Snowmobile safety programs and trails
* Nature Preserves Act
*

Outdoor recreation grants and statewide recreation planning
* Little Missouri Scenic River Commission coordination
* Governor's Take Pride in America Program
* State Scenic Byways Program

08/12/2026

Summer at Cross Ranch State Park is our happy place.

- Book a stay in a cozy year-round yurt or cabin nestled right along the scenic riverbanks and old-growth cottonwoods.
- Explore 16 miles of bottomland forests and sprawling prairie bluffs.
- Rent a kayak or canoe directly from the park to cruise the river, or head into the adjacent 5,000-acre Nature Preserve to catch a glimpse of roaming bison.

📍: Center, North Dakota

08/11/2026

Last month, our team gathered at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park with the Cashman family to plant a cottonwood tree in Carol Cashman's memory.

Carol passed away in May, but her legacy will continue to grow. Over the years, our parks have been enhanced by numerous trees from Cashman Nursery and Landscaping, creating beautiful spaces for visitors to enjoy while providing valuable habitat for wildlife.

We are grateful for the Cashman family’s longtime support and honored to help ensure Carol’s memory will be enjoyed for generations to come!

08/10/2026

Cheers to our favorite classic camping treat on National S’mores Day!

Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, there’s something about a s’more that brings back summer camping memories.

Are you team extra chocolate or extra marshmallow? Tell us what makes your perfect s'more!

08/07/2026

Heading out for a camping trip? North Dakota is experiencing very dry conditions, and fire danger ratings can change quickly.

Before you go, check the current burn restrictions at NDResponse.gov. North Dakota State Parks follow the burn restrictions set by the county where each park is located.

Being aware of current restrictions will help you plan your camping activities, including safe ways to cook and enjoy your time outdoors.

Thank you for helping protect our parks, prairies and communities.

08/06/2026

August = time for one more big summer memory.

Before backpacks replace beach bags, squeeze in a family adventure. It can be as simple as sitting on the beach or heading down a hiking trail!

Where will you go next?

08/05/2026

What's happening this weekend at ND state parks? More family fun!

- Stars & Stripes Kids' Weekend at Icelandic State Park
- Bison Bash at Cross Ranch State Park
- Wacky for Water Games at Turtle River State Park

Check out more info about these and more upcoming events in our parks: parkrec.nd.gov/events

08/04/2026

What a celebration! 🎉 Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate Fort Ransom State Park’s 50th anniversary!

The park was full of energy, and we loved seeing so many families enjoying the activities, gathering around picnic tables and celebrating this historic milestone together. Thank you again to our sponsors: Stock Growers Bank, Pride Dairy of Bottineau and Cloverdale Foods Company.

Congratulations on 50 years, Fort Ransom State Park! If you have not visited this gem of the Sheyenne River Valley, make plans to experience its beauty this year.

08/01/2026

The park is all set up for Fort Ransom’s 50th Anniversary celebration! Our team is putting the finishing touches on a day built for you. The fun happens from 11 am - 6 pm today!

- Kids activities for all ages
- Free hotdog lunch & ice cream (until gone)
- Historical & educational stations
- New geocaches
- Live music

Bring your family & friends and we’ll see you soon!

Address

604 E Boulevard Avenue
Bismarck, ND
58505

Telephone

+17013285357

Website

http://www.parkrec.nd.gov/

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