Lake Metigoshe State Park wilderness guide
State Park · ND

Lake Metigoshe State Park

Lake Metigoshe State Park in North Dakota offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities on the shores of Lake Metigoshe.

State Park1,5514+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,551

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Lake Metigoshe State Park

Lake Metigoshe State Park in North Dakota offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities on the shores of Lake Metigoshe.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Lake Metigoshe State Park is situated in the scenic Turtle Mountains of North Dakota, near the Canadian border. The park encompasses an area characterized by rolling hills, pristine waters, and dense groves of aspen, birch, and oak. Historically, this area was significant to the indigenous peoples and continues to bear cultural importance. Today, the park is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a host of recreational activities. In the summer, visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing on Lake Metigoshe, while the winter months bring opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The park's trails wind through varied landscapes, providing both scenic views and wildlife observation opportunities. Its rich biodiversity and picturesque setting make it a treasured natural retreat for locals and travelers alike.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lake Metigoshe State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Turtle Mountain Scenic Overlook provides stunning views of the surrounding forest and lakes.✦ Witness diverse wildlife such as white-tailed deer, beavers, and a variety of bird species.✦ Explore the Old Oak Trail, which offers a glimpse into the park’s natural and cultural history.✦ Moose Mountain Trail, a beautifully remote path that takes hikers through the dense woodlands.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lake Metigoshe State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Lake Metigoshe State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Lake Metigoshe State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Lake Metigoshe State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Lake Metigoshe State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Lake Metigoshe State Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Lake Metigoshe State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Lake Metigoshe 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 Lake Metigoshe State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily entrance fee or annual pass required.

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 Lake Metigoshe State Park

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

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lake Metigoshe State Park

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

Bottineau, North Dakota
⌖ 10.42 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bottineau, North Dakota

Bottineau, ND is a charming gateway to the Turtle Mountains, perfect for hiking, fishing, and winter sports. With picturesque lakes and serene trails, it's an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Deloraine, Manitoba
⌖ 15.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Deloraine, Manitoba

Deloraine, Manitoba is a peaceful town perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy hiking, paddling, and fishing. Surrounded by lakes, marshes, and forests, it’s a quiet basecamp with rewarding seasonal outdoor opportunities.

Late spring through early fall for water activities; winter for cross-country skiing.
Explore Town
Waskada, Manitoba
⌖ 19.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Waskada, Manitoba

Waskada, Manitoba, is a peaceful prairie town ideal for travelers who enjoy hiking, birdwatching, paddling, and quiet cycling across open landscapes. It offers a genuine rural experience with access to natural parks and calm outdoor adventures year-round.

Late spring through early fall for most activities, winter for skiing
Explore Town
Dunseith, North Dakota
⌖ 19.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dunseith, North Dakota

Dunseith offers outdoor lovers a peaceful escape with hiking, paddling, and winter skiing in the scenic Turtle Mountains. Close to the International Peace Garden, it’s ideal for campers and nature watchers seeking quieter adventures.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm weather activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Boissevain, Manitoba
⌖ 24.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Boissevain, Manitoba

Boissevain is a peaceful prairie town offering easy access to Turtle Mountain Provincial Park and Lake of the Prairies. It’s ideal for hiking, paddling, fishing, and camping amid Manitoba’s forests and waterways.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Belcourt, North Dakota
⌖ 32.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Belcourt, North Dakota

Belcourt, ND, offers outdoor lovers peaceful hiking, paddling, and birdwatching amid the Turtle Mountains. With quiet trails, lakes, and winter snowmobiling, it’s a serene destination rich in natural beauty and Native culture.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town