Lake Metigoshe State Park
Lake Metigoshe State Park is a scenic northwestern North Dakota park centered on a chain of clear lakes, wooded hills, and abundant wildlife. Visitors come for boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and year-round recreation in one of the state’s most picturesque lake regions.
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Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in designated areas and campgrounds; must be leashed, attended, and cleaned up after at all times.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love Lake Metigoshe State Park for its scenic lake views, peaceful wooded setting, great camping, hiking, boating, fishing, and family-friendly outdoor recreation.
Tips from Visitors
- Bring bug spray, especially near water and wooded trails.
- Check trail conditions before hiking; weather changes quickly.
- Reserve campsites early during summer and holiday weekends.
- Pack layers; evenings can be cool even in warm months.
- Use designated boat launches and follow all water safety rules.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lake Metigoshe State Park is late spring through early fall, when the lakes are ideal for boating, swimming, and fishing. Winter also draws visitors for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the scenic Turtle Mountains.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Lake Metigoshe State Park:
- Bottineau Winter ParkA seasonal recreation area offering skiing, tubing, and winter family activities in the Turtle Mountains.12 miles away
- International Peace GardenA famous cross-border garden and memorial park featuring formal gardens, monuments, and walking paths.18 miles away
- Mystical HorizonsA scenic roadside attraction with stone structures and panoramic views of the surrounding prairie and hills.20 miles away
Things to Do at Lake Metigoshe State Park
Camping at Lake Metigoshe State Park
Tent and RV camping, cabins, and yurts with hookups, restrooms, showers, fire rings, and reservations available seasonally.
Hiking Trails
Lake Metigoshe State Park offers scenic day hiking with a mix of wooded trails, lake views, and gentle terrain that suits most skill levels. Hikers often enjoy the peaceful forest setting, wildlife sightings, and well-marked paths. Trails are generally easy to moderate, making the park a good choice for a relaxed outing or a family-friendly hike.
North Country National Scenic Trail
ModerateA scenic, well-known trail segment that winds through forested areas and offers a classic North Dakota hiking experience with varied terrain and lake-area views.
Lakeside Trail
EasyA shorter, family-friendly hike along the shoreline and wooded edges of Lake Metigoshe, ideal for relaxed walking and wildlife viewing.
Nature Trail Loop
EasyA gentle loop through mixed woodland and natural park settings, great for beginners and visitors looking for a quick scenic hike.
Ridge Trail
ModerateA more varied trail with rolling terrain and occasional overlooks, offering a slightly more challenging hike with rewarding views.
Directions
From Bottineau, drive north on ND-8 for about 10 miles, then follow signs east to the park entrance. The park is located near the U.S.-Canada border in the Turtle Mountains.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lake Metigoshe State Park best known for?
The park is best known for its scenic lake views, wooded trails, and year-round recreation. Visitors often mention it as a peaceful spot for camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and winter activities like cross-country skiing.
Are there good hiking trails at Lake Metigoshe State Park?
Yes. Visitors commonly praise the park’s trails for being scenic and well-maintained. They’re popular for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing, with routes that wind through forested areas and around the lake.
Can you swim at Lake Metigoshe State Park?
Yes, swimming is available in designated areas during the warmer months. Many visitors enjoy the lake for cooling off, though water conditions can vary, so it’s smart to check current park information before heading out.
Is Lake Metigoshe State Park good for camping?
Yes. Campers often describe it as a quiet, family-friendly park with a relaxing setting. It offers a mix of camping options, and many reviews mention clean facilities and easy access to the lake and trails.
What kinds of fishing are available at the park?
Fishing is a popular activity at Lake Metigoshe. Visitors often target species common to the area and appreciate the easy lake access. Success can depend on season and conditions, so local fishing reports are helpful.
Is Lake Metigoshe State Park open in winter?
Yes, the park is a year-round destination. In winter, visitors often come for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and quiet scenery. Many reviews note that the park is especially beautiful when covered in snow.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
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