North Dakota summers get hot, and the state’s lakes deliver welcome relief – from wooded state-park beaches in the Turtle Mountains to the vast shores of Lake Sakakawea. This guide rounds up the best swimming lakes in North Dakota, with notes on beaches, state parks and family access. Each links to our full lake guide. This page is part of our North Dakota Lakes Database.
The best swimming lakes in North Dakota
- Lake Metigoshe. The wooded Turtle Mountains setting and the sandy beach at Lake Metigoshe State Park make this the classic North Dakota swimming-and-camping lake.
- Lake Sakakawea. The state’s giant has beaches and swim areas at its state parks and recreation areas, with warm, open water for swimming and boating all summer.
- Devils Lake. Grahams Island State Park and other access points offer swimming on North Dakota’s famous fishing lake.
- Lake Ashtabula. This long Sheyenne River reservoir has swim beaches at its Corps recreation areas, a popular escape near Valley City.
- Lake Tschida. A busy south-central reservoir with beaches and recreation areas, popular with families and anglers alike.
- Lake Isabel. A friendly recreation lake near Dawson with a beach and campground, good for a relaxed swim.
More swimming and beaches are found around Lake Audubon and other Missouri River system recreation areas.
Tips for swimming in North Dakota lakes
Most lake swimming in North Dakota is at state parks (Lake Metigoshe, Lake Sakakawea, Fort Stevenson, Grahams Island) and Corps of Engineers recreation areas, which usually offer beaches, parking and picnic facilities. Beaches are typically unguarded, so swim with care, especially on the big, windy reservoirs where water can be choppy. In late summer, check for any blue-green algae advisories before swimming.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best swimming lake in North Dakota?
Lake Metigoshe, in the Turtle Mountains, is the classic choice with a state-park beach and campground; Lake Sakakawea offers the most beaches and open water statewide.
Which North Dakota state parks have swimming beaches?
Lake Metigoshe, Lake Sakakawea, Fort Stevenson and Grahams Island (Devils Lake) state parks all have swimming beaches.
Can you swim in Lake Sakakawea?
Yes – Lake Sakakawea has beaches and swim areas at several state parks and recreation areas, with warm, open water in summer.
Related: see the North Dakota lakes with camping, the best lakes in North Dakota, or head back to the North Dakota Lakes Database.
