Icelandic State Park

Icelandic State Park is located on the shores of Lake Renwick, about 5 to 6 miles west of Cavalier in the northeastern corner of North Dakota. The park takes its name from the Icelandic immigrants who settled this region in the late 1800s, and that heritage runs through everything here, from the preserved homestead structures to the woodland trails that wind through terrain those early settlers once farmed. The combination of genuine historical depth, forested hiking, and calm lakeside camping makes this one of the more well-rounded parks in the North Dakota system.

Icelandic Settler Heritage and the Gunlogson Homestead

The cultural core of the park is the Gunlogson Homestead, a preserved farmstead that belonged to one of the area’s early Icelandic settler families. The homestead includes original outbuildings and a farmhouse that reflect what rural life looked like on the northern plains in the late nineteenth century. Interpretive signage throughout the area connects the physical structures to the broader story of Icelandic immigration to the Pembina County region. Adjacent to the homestead is the Gunlogson Nature Preserve, a forested tract that feels distinctly different from the open grassland typical of North Dakota. Towering hardwoods shade the trail corridor, and the preserve is recognized as an important habitat for migratory and resident bird species. Visiting the homestead and walking through the preserve together gives a clear sense of why this particular piece of land attracted settlers and why it remains worth protecting.

Trails Through the Woodland and Preserve

Hiking is the primary draw for day visitors who are not camping. The trails run through mature woodland, open areas near Lake Renwick, and the Gunlogson Nature Preserve, offering terrain that is genuinely rare in this part of the Great Plains. Routes are well-marked and manageable for most fitness levels, with enough variety in scenery to reward a few hours of exploration. The Tongue River flows through the park’s eastern edge, and portions of the trail system bring hikers close to the water. Spring and early summer are particularly good seasons for wildflowers and bird activity along these routes.

Camping and Lakeside Recreation at Lake Renwick

The campground is near Lake Renwick, with modern and primitive camping loops, and some sites are close to the lake. Sites are available with electric and water hookups as well as more basic options, so the campground works for both RV campers and those in tents. The lake itself is used for fishing, with walleye, northern pike, and perch among the species anglers target. Swimming and non-motorized watercraft are also popular on calm summer days. The overall atmosphere at the campground is quiet and unhurried, making it a practical base for families or anyone wanting a low-key stay in the region.

Pet Policy

Pets are welcome at Icelandic State Park and must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Pets must be leashed in the park except in any designated off-leash or dog-park area, and they are not allowed in designated swimming areas, playgrounds, buildings, or other posted areas. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

White-tailed deer are common throughout the park and are seen most often during early morning and evening hours. They are generally not a threat, but deer at dawn and dusk can move suddenly across trails or roads, so hikers and drivers should stay alert during those windows. Ticks are present in the wooded sections of the park and in grassy transition areas throughout the warmer months. Check your clothing and skin carefully after any time on the trails, and consider treating clothing with permethrin before your visit. Mosquitoes are a serious nuisance near the Tongue River and the wetland areas of the park, especially in June and July. Bring repellent and expect heavier pressure in the evening hours close to any standing or slow-moving water. The Gunlogson Nature Preserve is an important habitat for migratory birds, and during the spring and summer nesting season, visitors should stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing vegetation where birds may be nesting. Flushing nesting birds repeatedly can cause nest abandonment, so quiet and careful movement through the preserve is appreciated.

Practical Information

Icelandic State Park is located at approximately 48.78 latitude, -97.76 longitude, a few miles west of Cavalier, North Dakota on Highway 5. Cavalier is the nearest town with fuel, groceries, and lodging options. The park is accessible year-round, though some facilities are seasonal. Camping reservations can be made at reserveNDparks.com or by calling 800-807-4723, and advance booking is recommended for summer weekends. All vehicles entering the park must display a valid daily or annual vehicle entrance permit, and annual passes are available for those who plan multiple visits across the state park system. Camping fees vary depending on site type, with electric and water hookup sites priced higher than basic sites. Contact the park directly or visit parkrec.nd.gov for current fee schedules and availability.