Lake Metigoshe State Park

Lake Metigoshe State Park occupies a quiet corner of the Turtle Mountains in north-central North Dakota, just a few miles from the Canadian border. The park centers on Lake Metigoshe, a natural lake in the Turtle Mountains with clear, glacier-carved origins. Water conditions can vary, and visitors should check current advisories before swimming or recreating on the water. The Turtle Mountains themselves are an anomaly on the plains, a forested upland of aspen, oak, and birch that feels distinctly different from the surrounding prairie. That contrast, a wooded lake retreat in an otherwise open landscape, is what draws people back season after season.

Boating and Fishing on Lake Metigoshe

The lake is the reason most people come here. It covers about 1,880 acres and supports healthy populations of walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, bluegill, black crappie, and black bullhead. A public boat ramp gives anglers and recreational boaters easy access, and the relatively light traffic on the water keeps things unhurried. Canoes, kayaks, and motorboats are all common. Ice fishing is a serious draw in winter, when the lake freezes reliably and anglers set up portable shelters for walleye and perch. Fishing licenses are required and available through North Dakota Game and Fish.

Swimming and Beach Use

A sandy swimming beach provides the park’s most popular summer gathering spot. The water is clear and the bottom is gradual, making it well suited for families. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise their own judgment. Picnic tables and grills sit close to the beach, and the surrounding shade trees make the area comfortable even on warm afternoons.

Hiking Through the Turtle Mountains

The park’s trail system winds through a landscape that rewards slow travel. Aspen groves give way to open meadows, and stretches of trail run close enough to the lakeshore to offer water views through the trees. The trails are not technically demanding, but the terrain has enough roll and variation to make the walks interesting. In fall, the aspen and oak color is exceptional. In winter, the same trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, and the park maintains good conditions through most of the season. Snowshoeing is also popular on ungroomed routes.

Cabin Stays and Camping

Lake Metigoshe offers one of the more appealing lodging setups in the North Dakota state park system. Fully equipped cabins are available for rent year-round, giving visitors a comfortable base for multi-day trips without needing to haul camping gear. The cabins are in high demand during summer and winter weekends, so booking well ahead is strongly recommended.

For those who prefer camping, the park has both electric hookup sites and tent camping areas set among the trees. The campground is well shaded and generally quieter than larger regional campgrounds. A dump station and shower facilities are available on site.

Pet Policy

Pets are welcome at Lake Metigoshe State Park and must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. This applies on all trails, in the campground, and in day-use areas. Pets are not permitted in park buildings or on the swimming beach. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals throughout the park.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

White-tailed deer are abundant throughout the park and are especially active along trails and near campsites at dawn and dusk. They are generally not aggressive, but deer can move unpectedly across paths, so keep an eye out when walking or cycling in low light.

Ticks are present throughout the wooded and grassy areas of the park from spring through late summer. They are small and easy to miss. Wear long sleeves and pants when hiking, use insect repellent with DEET, and do a thorough check of your skin and clothing after any time outdoors. Pay close attention to the scalp, behind the knees, and under the arms.

Black bears are occasionally sighted in the Turtle Mountains region. Encounters are uncommon but not unheard of. Store all food, coolers, and scented items in your vehicle or in the provided food storage when available. Do not leave food unattended at campsites, and dispose of garbage in designated trash receptacles, following any posted food-storage instructions from park staff.

Mosquitoes can be intense near the lakeshore and wetland areas during summer, particularly in the evenings. Bring repellent and consider wearing lightweight long sleeves if you plan to spend time near the water after sunset.

Practical Information

Lake Metigoshe State Park is located near 48.985 N, 100.321 W; Lake Metigoshe itself is near 48.978 N, 100.354 W, close to the town of Bottineau, North Dakota. Bottineau is the nearest full-service town, about 14 miles south of the park, and offers groceries, fuel, and lodging options. The park is accessible via paved road from Bottineau.

Daily vehicle entry is $7. An annual single-vehicle permit is $35, and an annual family permit is $61.25, with both covering entry to all North Dakota state parks for one year. Camping and cabin fees are charged separately from entry.

The park is open year-round. Summer is the busiest season for beach use, boating, and camping. Winter brings a dedicated crowd of ice anglers, skiers, and snowshoers. Cabin reservations can be made through the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department reservation system. Reservations are strongly advised for summer weekends and holiday periods.