Harker Lake is a shallow glacial lake in Kidder County, central North Dakota, a few miles southeast of Dawson — and it lies entirely within the Slade National Wildlife Refuge. More marsh and waterfowl haven than fishing hole, it is a place for birds, wetlands and quiet prairie scenery. This guide is part of our growing North Dakota Lakes Database.
Harker Lake at a glance
- Location: Kidder County, about 3 miles (5 km) southeast of Dawson, central North Dakota
- Setting: a shallow glacial lake entirely within the Slade National Wildlife Refuge
- Elevation: roughly 1,736 ft (529 m)
- Best for: waterfowl, birding and wildlife watching
- Access: limited — marshy refuge land off Highway 3; a wildlife area, not a developed rec lake
A refuge lake for the birds
Harker Lake is one of the wetlands that make up the Slade National Wildlife Refuge, a patchwork of marsh, open water and native prairie in the heart of North Dakota’s pothole country. The shallow lake and the surrounding refuge are managed above all for wildlife: Canada geese, snow geese, mallards and other waterfowl, along with ring-necked pheasants and sharp-tailed grouse, use the area for much of the year.
Visiting Harker Lake
This is a place to watch wildlife, not launch a boat. Access is limited and the shoreline is marshy, so Harker Lake is best enjoyed as part of a visit to the Slade refuge — birding, photography and quiet prairie exploration off Highway 3. There is no developed boat ramp, swim beach or campground; come for the birds and the big-sky solitude, and follow all refuge rules.
Know before you go
- It is a refuge: managed for wildlife; access and activities follow National Wildlife Refuge rules.
- Best for: waterfowl and birding, especially during spring and fall migration.
- Not a rec lake: marshy with limited access — no ramp, beach or camping.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Harker Lake, North Dakota?
In Kidder County, about three miles southeast of Dawson, entirely within the Slade National Wildlife Refuge in central North Dakota.
Can you fish Harker Lake?
It is a shallow marsh lake in a national wildlife refuge, managed mainly for waterfowl; access is limited and marshy, so it is far better known for birding than for fishing.
What wildlife is at Harker Lake?
Canada and snow geese, mallards and other waterfowl, plus ring-necked pheasants and sharp-tailed grouse, use the Slade refuge for much of the year.
Related: explore more small lakes of North Dakota, or head back to the North Dakota Lakes Database.
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