Reservoir ND
Fort Stevenson S. P.
Fort Stevenson State Park near Garrison, North Dakota — north-shore Lake Sakakawea swim beach, two marinas, and rentals in the "Walleye Capital" of the state.
View detailsLake swimming holes in North Dakota
Lake swimming holes include natural lakes, ponds, and reservoirs with shoreline access — still water that is often easier for families than currents. Browse lakes below for beaches, fees, and amenities.
6 lake destinations in North Dakota.
Swimming holes in North Dakota — lake: 6 spots in our directory. Sort live from your phone with near me, or browse all U.S. lake swimming holes and the North Dakota state page.
Lake swimming in North Dakota
Lake swimming holes include natural lakes, ponds, and reservoirs with shoreline access — still water that is often easier for families than currents. Browse lakes below for beaches, fees, and amenities.
We currently document 6 lake swim spots in North Dakota. Each listing includes original descriptions, visitor notes, and last-updated dates when available.
What to know before you swim
Lake destinations in North Dakota vary widely in access, temperature, and legality. Some are official recreation areas; others are informal river bends. Read the access and safety sections on each listing — never assume swimming is allowed without checking current signage.
For trip planning beyond this filter, browse the full North Dakota state page, our guides, or use near me to sort by distance from your location.
What to pack for lake swimming holes
Long shore days and open water — compared gear for lake trips, floats, sun, and picnics.
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Lake ND
Grahams Island S. P.
Grahams Island State Park on Devils Lake, North Dakota — wooded island swim beach on a world-class walleye fishery. Fees, hours, and shoreline conditions.
View details Lake ND
Icelandic S. P.
Icelandic State Park near Cavalier, North Dakota — Lake Renwick swim beach under old oaks, plus North Dakota’s first state nature preserve. Fees and access.
View details Reservoir ND
Lake Ashtabula
Lake Ashtabula near Valley City, North Dakota — three designated Army Corps swimming areas on a Sheyenne River reservoir with seven recreation areas.
View details Lake ND
Lake Metigoshe S. P.
Lake Metigoshe State Park near Bottineau, North Dakota — designated swim beach in the Turtle Mountains near the Canadian border. Fees, hours, and rentals.
View details Reservoir ND
Lake Sakakawea S. P.
Lake Sakakawea State Park near Pick City, North Dakota — swim beach on the third-largest man-made reservoir in the US, beside Garrison Dam. Fees and access.
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