Lake with rocky shoreline

Lake Sakakawea Vacation Rentals

Feel the wide open breeze and swim with your family at Lake Sakakawea State Park in North Dakota.

Swim, Fish, and Feel the Breeze at Lake Sakakawea State Park

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Lake Sakakawea
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Why Rent On Lake Sakakawea

Lake Sakakawea, the third-largest man-made reservoir in the nation, sprawls across North Dakota with an awe-inspiring 1,300 miles of shoreline. This vast water wonderland is a magnet for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. On its south shore, Lake Sakakawea State Park offers a myriad of activities: sail boating and windsurfing take advantage of the region’s notorious winds, while anglers can reel in walleye, northern pike, and chinook salmon from the lake’s deep waters.

For those who crave terrestrial adventures, the park is home to the Western Terminus of the North Country National Scenic Trail, a 4,800-mile path stretching to Vermont. Hiking trails and picturesque shoreline drives provide breathtaking vistas of the lake and its rugged surroundings. Nearby, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center recounts the historic journey of the famous explorers, while the Garrison Dam stands as a remarkable engineering feat. The area is also rich in Native American heritage, with sites like the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site waiting to be explored. Whether you’re after outdoor thrills, historical insights, or serene natural beauty, Lake Sakakawea is an unforgettable destination.

Best time to go
Visit Lake Sakakawea in late summer, particularly August, when warm sunlight ignites the azure waters. Experience pristine fishing and serene boating as fewer tourists revel in the golden hues of sunset. Delight in the calm, bug-free evenings, perfect for fireside gatherings.
Water Quality
Lake Sakakawea's water exhibits a deep blue hue, with clarity varying from ultra-clear to murky depending on seasonal conditions and weather events.
Surface area (mi)
925.84
Max depth (ft)
180.45
Elevation (ft)
1817.59
Shoreline length (mi)
1317.31

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Ice Skating
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Sakakawea has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake Sakakawea. You can swim at the designated swim beach areas, but children under 12 must be supervised by an adult. There are no lifeguards on duty.

  • Lake Sakakawea is a popular destination because of its excellent fishing and boating opportunities. The lake is home to various fish species like walleye, northern pike, and chinook salmon, and it offers extensive lakeshore for sailing, windsurfing, and other water activities. Additionally, the park provides camping, hiking trails, and a swim beach.

  • In Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota, the legal live aquatic baits allowed for fishing are fathead minnows, sticklebacks, and creek chubs. These species are permitted because they do not cause ecological problems like white suckers, which are restricted to the Bois de Sioux and Red rivers. Anglers must purchase these baits from licensed North Dakota retail bait vendors.

  • The best beach for families at Lake Sakakawea is on the east side of Lake Sakakawea State Park. This area has calm waters and sandy stretches, making it family-friendly. It is also part of a larger park with amenities like a swim beach and camping facilities.

  • Towns near Lake Sakakawea that offer amenities for visitors include Williston, Pick City, Four Bears Village, and Riverdale. These towns provide facilities for fishing, boating, and other water activities, as well as hotels, dining options, and access to Lake Sakakawea State Park. They are located along the lake’s shoreline, making them convenient for visitors.