Fort Stevenson State Park wilderness guide
State Park · ND

Fort Stevenson State Park

Fort Stevenson State Park, situated on the shores of Lake Sakakawea, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and rich history. It's a top spot for fishing, hiking, and exploring the historical remnants of its military past.

State Park5864+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

586

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Fort Stevenson State Park

Fort Stevenson State Park, situated on the shores of Lake Sakakawea, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and rich history. It's a top spot for fishing, hiking, and exploring the historical remnants of its military past.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Fort Stevenson State Park, located in North Dakota, is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Spanning the scenic shores of Lake Sakakawea, this state park offers expansive views of the lake and the surrounding rolling terrain. The park is named after a 19th-century military fort, traces of which can still be explored, providing a tangible connection to the region's past. Known for its diverse ecosystem, the park features both prairie and forested areas, supporting a variety of wildlife, including deer, fox, and numerous bird species. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The park is especially popular for its access to Lake Sakakawea, one of North Dakota’s largest bodies of water, making it ideal for boating and paddle sports. Winter brings its own charm, with opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. For visitors, the park provides well-maintained facilities, including campgrounds, picnic areas, and a marina, ensuring a comfortable and engaging visit.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Fort Stevenson State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Scenic views of Lake Sakakawea from hiking trails✦ Wildlife viewing opportunities across diverse habitats✦ Historical remnants of Fort Stevenson military installations✦ Access to a top-rated fishing location on Lake Sakakawea
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Fort Stevenson State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Fort Stevenson State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Fort Stevenson State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Fort Stevenson State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Fort Stevenson State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Fort Stevenson State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Fort Stevenson State Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Fort Stevenson State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Fort Stevenson State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

A state park pass is required for vehicle entry.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Fort Stevenson State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Fort Stevenson State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Garrison, North Dakota
⌖ 3.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Garrison, North Dakota

Garrison offers a quiet outdoor escape centered on Lake Sakakawea’s vast waters and scenic prairies. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and snowmobiling in a peaceful setting with excellent wildlife viewing and lakeside camping.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Underwood, North Dakota
⌖ 16.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Underwood, North Dakota

Underwood offers a peaceful riverside escape with paddling, fishing, and gentle hiking along the Missouri River. Outdoor lovers enjoy birdwatching and camping here, especially from late spring to early fall.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Stanton, North Dakota
⌖ 19.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stanton, North Dakota

Stanton, ND offers a tranquil escape along the Missouri River with plentiful hiking, paddling, and historical exploration. Experience the area's natural beauty and rich history at Knife River Indian Villages.

Roseglen, North Dakota
⌖ 22.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roseglen, North Dakota

Roseglen is a peaceful North Dakota town offering access to quiet river paddling, fishing, and prairie hiking. Perfect for travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty on open landscapes.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Washburn, North Dakota
⌖ 28.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Washburn, North Dakota

Washburn is a peaceful river town that offers easy access to fishing, hiking, paddling, and camping along the Missouri River. With nearby parks and natural refuges, it’s a quiet spot for nature lovers seeking a laid-back adventure in North Dakota.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Mérida, Mérida State
⌖ 33.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mérida, Mérida State

Mérida is a charming mountain town in Venezuela’s Andes, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and even skiing near Pico Bolívar. With stunning national parks, a famous cable car, and rich nature, it's a true Andean adventure basecamp.

December to March
Explore Town