Paddle Board Destinations in North Dakota: Prairie Lakes & Badlands Adventures
North Dakota’s vast landscapes and crystal-clear waters make it a surprisingly rich destination for paddle boarding. From forested mountain lakes to winding rivers through the Badlands, the Peace Garden State offers serene escapes and rugged adventures for paddlers of all levels. Whether you're seeking solitude, wildlife, or wide-open water, North Dakota’s paddle board scene is as diverse as its terrain.
Lake Metigoshe
- Location: Turtle Mountains, Northern North Dakota
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Lake Metigoshe State Park boat ramp
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, campgrounds, hiking trails
- Best Season: Summer to early Fall
Description: Nestled in forested hills, Lake Metigoshe offers calm waters and scenic views. Ideal for peaceful paddling, wildlife spotting, and connecting with nature.
Lake Sakakawea
- Location: Western North Dakota
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Fort Stevenson State Park, Garrison Bay
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, rentals, campgrounds, hiking trails
- Best Season: Summer
Description: One of the largest man-made reservoirs in the U.S., Lake Sakakawea offers vast open water, scenic cliffs, and plenty of space for long-distance paddling and exploration.
Devils Lake
- Location: Northeastern North Dakota
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Grahams Island State Park, East Bay Campground
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, beaches, rentals
- Best Season: Summer
Description: Known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic bays, Devils Lake is perfect for paddling through inlets and relaxing on sandy beaches.
Missouri River
- Location: Statewide
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Bismarck, Mandan, Fort Abraham Lincoln
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, picnic areas, camping
- Best Season: Late Spring to Fall
Description: North Dakota’s stretch of the Missouri River offers a mix of calm waters and challenging currents. Paddle past historic sites and enjoy riverside camping.
Lake Ashtabula
- Location: Eastern North Dakota
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Mel Rieman Recreation Area, Baldhill Dam
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, picnic areas, fishing access
- Best Season: Summer
Description: A peaceful lake with clear waters and small islands to explore. Great for beginners and nature lovers looking for a quiet paddle.
Harmon Lake
- Location: Near Mandan, North Dakota
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Harmon Lake Recreation Area
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, trails, picnic shelters
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Description: Surrounded by grasslands and rolling hills, Harmon Lake offers calm waters and scenic views. Ideal for families and casual paddlers.
Little Missouri River
- Location: Western North Dakota (Badlands)
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Theodore Roosevelt National Park access points
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, camping
- Best Season: Late Spring to Summer
Description: Flowing through the rugged Badlands, this river offers a unique paddle through dramatic landscapes. Best for experienced paddlers due to variable flow and remote access.
Lake Oahe
- Location: Missouri River, Southern North Dakota
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Beaver Bay Recreation Area, Hazelton Boat Ramp
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, campgrounds
- Best Season: Summer
Description: With over 2,250 miles of shoreline, Lake Oahe offers endless paddling opportunities. Enjoy quiet bays, wildlife sightings, and panoramic prairie views.
Summary of Paddle Board Locations in North Dakota
North Dakota’s paddle board scene is as varied as its terrain. Beginners can enjoy calm lakes like Harmon and Ashtabula, while intermediate paddlers will love the vast waters of Sakakawea and Devils Lake. Advanced adventurers can tackle the Missouri River or explore the dramatic Badlands via the Little Missouri. With launch points across lakes, rivers, and wilderness areas, North Dakota is a paddle boarder’s paradise in the heart of the Northern Plains.