The visitor center is open year-round. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, it’s open from 9 am to 5 pm Central Time. The rest of the year, it’s open from 8 am to 4:30 pm, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day when it is closed.
There is no entrance fee to visit Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site. Admission is free year-round.
From Bismarck, take US-83 N to ND-200 W, then continue to Stanton. Immerse yourself in the ancient earthlodges and rich history of the Northern Plains Indians along the Missouri River.
Parking is available at the visitor center in designated spaces, including some for oversized vehicles. No overnight parking or camping is allowed. No specific RV size restrictions mentioned, but motorcycles can park in regular spaces. No parking fees noted.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the heart of North Dakota, where the Upper Missouri River meanders through the vast prairie, lies the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site. This expansive 1,758-acre site is a testament to the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Hidatsa people, with a history that spans over 11,000 years.
As you wander through the site, you are transported to a bustling earthlodge village, alive with the sounds of Hidatsa, Mandan, and even distant languages like English, French, and German. The air is filled with the scent of boiling corn, sage smoke, and the sweet fragrance of wildflowers swaying in the breeze. Three ancient villages—Awatixa Xi’e, Awatixa, and Big Hidatsa village—dot the landscape, each with its own unique story. Awatixa, notably, was the home of Sacagawea, whose legacy still resonates here.
Seasonal changes paint the landscape in vivid hues: the vibrant greens of spring, the golden harvests of autumn, and the serene snowscapes of winter. Hike along the trails that crisscross the site, feeling the earth beneath your feet and the history that seeps from every depression where earth lodges once stood. The nearby Missouri River, a lifeline for centuries, offers canoe tours and fishing for catfish and sturgeon.
Visit the modern museum and visitor center to delve deeper into the lives of the Hidatsa people. The site is also home to various events, including ranger-led tours and cultural festivals that bring the history to life. For those seeking more, the nearby town of Stanton offers local artisans and outfitters, providing a seamless blend of history, culture, and modern adventure. As the sun sets over the Knife River, the site transforms into a serene haven, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its timeless beauty and profound historical significance.
- Area (mi²)
- 2.7
- Annual visitors
- 31 079
- Established year
- 1974
Top 3 Facts about Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
The earth-lodge dwellings at this site were as large as 40 feet in diameter and 14 feet high, with visible remains seen as large circular depressions in the ground.
In this verdant landscape, white-tailed deer and coyotes roam alongside beavers and skunks, while thirteen-lined ground squirrels scamper through the underbrush. The skies are alive with turkeys, pheasants, and bald eagles, and the rivers host white pelicans, snow geese, and great blue herons. Aquatic mollusks thrive in the waters, and over 200 insect species, including beetles and bees, contribute to the rich ecosystem. Exotic invasive plants like leafy spurge and Canada thistle are carefully managed to preserve the natural balance, ensuring a diverse and vibrant environment for all who visit.
Along the confluence of the Knife and Missouri rivers, the landscape is defined by broad plains, river bluffs, and river bottom forests. The Missouri River, known as the “Big Muddy,” carries high sedimentation loads, giving its waters a distinct murky hue. The river terraces, formed at the end of the last ice age, rise gently from the west bank, a testament to the region’s geological history. This scenic area, part of the Great Plains physiographic province, offers a diverse ecosystem with lush grassland prairies and a rich cultural heritage.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a half-day visit in late summer to avoid harsh weather. Start at the visitor center, then explore the earthlodge and Village Trail. Wear comfortable shoes for the 1.3-mile walk. Bring water and snacks as options are limited. Attend a ranger program for deeper insight.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a tent, sleeping bag, and camping stove for extended stays. Don’t forget headlamps, extra batteries, and a multi-tool. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect native prairies and rivers by staying on trails, keeping pets leashed, and avoiding invasive plant spread. Enjoy dark skies and diverse wildlife without disturbance.[/s]
Stay Informed
Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before venturing out. Wear appropriate clothing and stay alert near ledges and water. Follow park rules and contact authorities at 911 for emergencies.
Seasons
In spring, witness blooming wildflowers and migrating birds amidst temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F. Attend the January living history event or enjoy mild spring weather in April and May, ideal for hiking the Two Rivers Trail and exploring earthlodges.
Experience summer’s warmth (70s-80s°F) amidst historic earthlodges. July and August bring kids’ camps and guided tours. Don’t miss the 50th Anniversary celebration on August 17, featuring traditional music, storytelling, and cultural activities. Ideal for history enthusiasts and families.
Visit in fall for crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage. Enjoy the Lifeways of the Northern Plains program, featuring traditional Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara activities. Ideal time for birdwatching and serene hikes through historic earthlodge sites.
Visit from December to February for a serene winter landscape, with temperatures often below 32°F. Though trails may be snowy, the earthlodge and visitor center remain open, offering a unique glimpse into historical Native American life amidst the quiet of winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the site is Stanton, North Dakota, which is just south of the historic site on County Road 37. Bismarck, North Dakota, is about an hour northwest, and Minot, North Dakota, is about an hour and a half southwest.
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You can bring your dog to the site, but it must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Dogs are allowed on the trails and grounds, but not inside buildings or the reconstructed earthen lodge. Make sure to clean up and dispose of your dog’s waste properly.
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There is no entrance fee or parking fee. You can park your camper, trailer, or motorhome without any additional cost.
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The site preserves the remnants of Hidatsa and Mandan earthlodge settlements that date back to around 1525 CE and thrived until a smallpox epidemic in 1837. It was a major trading and agricultural area, and during the winter of 1804-1805, it was a key location for Lewis and Clark’s interactions with Native American tribes, including the hiring of Toussaint Charbonneau and Sacagawea. The area has been occupied by humans for over 11,000 years, with the Hidatsa arriving around 1300 CE.