North Dakota
About North Dakota
North Dakota is located in the northern Great Plains of the United States and became a state on November 2, 1889. The capital city is Bismarck, while Fargo is the largest urban center. The state borders the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba to the north, Minnesota to the east, South Dakota to the south, and Montana to the west. Covering about 70,705 square miles, North Dakota is the 19th-largest state by area, yet it has a population of just under 800,000, making it one of the least densely populated states in the country.
The landscape of North Dakota is dominated by the Great Plains, with sweeping prairies, farmland, temperate grasslands, and rugged badlands. Interestingly, the state is home to the geographic center of North America, which attracts curious travelers each year. Much of the state remains rural, with small towns scattered across wide open spaces.
Famous Tourist Attractions
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park (Western North Dakota)
- World’s Largest Buffalo Monument (Jamestown)
- Enchanted Highway (Southwestern North Dakota)
- International Peace Garden (Near Dunseith, U.S.–Canada Border)
Top Lakes to Visit in North Dakota
Although the state is known for its prairies, North Dakota also offers many scenic lakes that are perfect for fishing, boating, and relaxing outdoor trips. Check the driving directions tool, and you can easily find these lakes on the map.
- Lake Sakakawea (Central North Dakota): One of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, popular for boating and fishing.
- Devils Lake (Northeastern North Dakota): Known as a top fishing destination, especially for walleye and perch.
- Lake Metigoshe (Near Bottineau): A peaceful lake surrounded by forested parks and ideal for camping and kayaking.