Kayaking In North Dakota: Complete Paddler's Guide 2025

By: Dave Samuel

Updated On: August 5, 2025

Introduction

Last summer, I paddled the Pembina River just as the sun broke through the morning mist, and I'll never forget how the water looked like liquid glass between those towering valley walls. North Dakota might not be the first place that comes to mind for kayaking adventures, but after spending three months exploring every paddleable mile from the Badlands to the Red River Valley, I can tell you this state is a hidden paddling paradise.

With over 1,200 miles of rivers and countless lakes scattered across the prairie, kayaking in ND offers something most crowded waterways can't – complete solitude and untouched wilderness. From the white water of the Pembina Gorge (yes, North Dakota has rapids!) to the endless expanse of Lake Sakakawea, this guide covers everything you need for your North Dakota river paddling adventure.

Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or just looking for a peaceful afternoon paddle, I've mapped out the best routes, tested the rental shops, and even found those secret spots the locals don't talk about. Time to discover why paddling in ND state has become my favorite summer obsession.

Quick Info

Best Season: May through September
Difficulty Range: Beginner to Advanced
Water Types: Rivers, lakes, reservoirs
Key Hazards: Wind on large lakes, low water in late summer
Rentals Available: 15+ locations statewide

Why Kayak in North Dakota?

Uncrowded Waters

During peak summer weekends in 2025, when every lake in Minnesota has boats lined up at the launch, I can still find completely empty stretches of the Missouri River near Bismarck. Last July 4th weekend, I paddled 15 miles on the Sheyenne River and saw exactly three other boats – all fishermen who waved as I floated by.

Diverse Paddling Experiences

North Dakota surprised me with its variety. In one week, I paddled:

Class I rapids on the Pembina River (the only white water in the state)
Glass-calm prairie pothole lakes perfect for beginners
The mighty Missouri with its sandbars and 3-4 mph current
Lake Sakakawea's 180-mile expanse that feels like an inland sea

Wildlife Viewing Paradise

The Mouse River alone passes through three national wildlife refuges. I've spotted bald eagles, white pelicans, beaver, and more deer than I can count. The spring migration brings thousands of waterfowl – paddling through a flock of snow geese taking off is something you'll never forget.

Affordable Adventures

Most state park launches are free or under $5. Kayak rentals run $30-50 per day (way cheaper than Colorado or California), and primitive camping along many rivers costs nothing. My entire five-day Little Missouri float, including shuttle service, cost less than one guided day trip in the Rockies.

Best Rivers for North Dakota River Paddling

The Missouri River: Following Lewis & Clark

The Missouri from Garrison Dam to Lake Oahe offers 80 miles of free-flowing river that's perfect for multi-day trips. I love the stretch from Washburn to Cross Ranch State Park – 9 miles of sandbars, cottonwood groves, and zero development.

Current: 3-4 mph makes downstream paddling effortless Width: 200-400 yards gives you room to explore Camping: Sandbars are fair game for primitive camping Access: Cross Ranch State Park offers shuttle service ($30)

The river can get choppy when afternoon winds kick up, so I always start early. Watch for the Knife River confluence – Lewis and Clark wintered nearby, and the area hasn't changed much since 1804. If you're thinking about gear for a trip like this, check out our kayak weight guide to understand how boat weight affects river paddling.

Little Missouri River: The Badlands Float

North Dakota's only designated State Scenic River flows 107 miles through Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the Badlands. May and early June are prime time – you need at least 2.5 feet of water depth, and by July it's often too low.

Best Section: Medora to Long X Bridge (5 days) Difficulty: Class I-II when flowing Scenery: Otherworldly badlands formations Permits: Free backcountry permit required for park sections

I've done this float three times, and each trip revealed new side canyons and wildlife. The river meanders so much that the 107 river miles cover only about 35 miles as the crow flies. Camping on gravel bars under the stars with coyotes howling from the buttes – doesn't get much better.

Pembina River: ND's Hidden White Water

Tucked away in the Pembina Gorge near the Canadian border, this river offers North Dakota's only white water experience. The 12,000-year-old gorge creates Class I rapids that are perfect for building confidence before tackling bigger water elsewhere.

Prime Time: April through early June (water dependent) Popular Runs:

Vang Bridge to Brickmine Bridge (3.6 miles, 2 hours)
Brickmine Bridge to Walhalla (7.5 miles, 4 hours) Shuttle Service: $25-30 through Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area Features: Quick turns, fallen trees, one electric fence to duck under

The first time I ran this in high water, I was grinning like an idiot the whole way. It's not the Colorado River, but for the Great Plains, these rapids are legit. The gorge walls rise 400 feet, creating a microclimate where you'll paddle through forests that feel more like Minnesota than North Dakota.

Sheyenne River: The Gentle Giant

At 591 miles, the Sheyenne is North Dakota's longest river, winding through varied terrain from rolling hills to wide-open prairie. The 199-mile Sheyenne River Water Trail from Lake Ashtabula to the Red River makes planning easy with marked access points and campgrounds.

Family Favorite: Fort Ransom State Park section Current: Gentle 1-2 mph perfect for upstream paddling Wildlife: Beaver dams, wood ducks, deer Unique Feature: Historic Norwegian homesteads along the banks

Fort Ransom State Park runs a sweet shuttle service – paddle 5.2 miles downstream for $20. The river here cuts through the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway, and in fall, the colors rival New England.

Red River: The Border Water

Forming the entire eastern border with Minnesota, the Red River offers 400 miles of slow, scenic paddling through some of the world's most fertile farmland. The river flows north (weird, right?) into Canada.

Current: Sluggish 1 mph or less Character: Wide, muddy, meandering Access: Grand Forks has the Boathouse on the Red with rentals Wildlife: Catfish heaven for anglers

I like the stretch through Grand Forks where the Greenway trail system parallels the river. You can paddle downtown, grab lunch, and float back – urban paddling with a prairie twist.

Best Lakes for Kayaking in ND

Lake Sakakawea: The Prairie Ocean

The third-largest man-made lake in the US, Sakakawea stretches 180 miles with more shoreline than the entire California coast. It's massive enough to have its own weather systems – I've seen dead calm mornings turn into 4-foot waves by afternoon.

Launch Points:

Fort Stevenson State Park (full facilities, protected bay)
Lewis & Clark State Park (less crowded, great camping)
Indian Hills Resort (rentals available)

Navigation Tip: The lake has hundreds of bays and inlets. Download offline maps before launching – cell service is spotty, and it's easy to get turned around. I once spent an hour looking for my launch after exploring a maze of coves near Garrison.

For big water like this, having the right safety gear becomes crucial, especially when those prairie winds kick up unexpected waves.

Devils Lake: The Perch Capital

Devils Lake has grown from 45,000 acres in the 1990s to over 160,000 acres today, swallowing farmland and creating a paddler's playground with flooded trees and new islands to explore.

Why Paddle Here:

Crystal-clear water (unusual for ND)
World-class perch and walleye fishing
Grahams Island State Park offers protected paddling
Less wind than Sakakawea

The lake's irregular shape creates countless protected bays. My favorite is Six Mile Bay – on calm mornings, the water reflects the sky so perfectly you feel like you're floating in space.

Lake Metigoshe: The Turtle Mountain Gem

Straddling the US-Canada border in the Turtle Mountains, Metigoshe feels more like the Boundary Waters than North Dakota. It's one of the few naturally wooded lakes in the state.

Unique Features:

School Section Lake: Non-motorized paddling paradise
International paddling (bring your passport!)
Canoe/kayak trail with portages
Actual hills and forests

The paddling trail through School Section Lake requires three portages but takes you through pristine kettle ponds surrounded by aspen and oak. In fall, the colors are insane – I've taken more photos here than anywhere else in the state.

Lake Ashtabula: The Valley City Secret

Created by damming the Sheyenne River, Ashtabula offers 5,400 acres of paddling with multiple islands and protected coves. It's big enough to explore all day but small enough that you won't get lost.

Access: Valley City has a kayak kiosk at Bjornson Golf Course Features: Sandy beaches, island camping, clear water Distance from Town: 15 minutes from Valley City

I discovered a hidden beach on the north shore that's only accessible by kayak. On summer evenings, I've had the whole place to myself – just me, the sunset, and a cold beer from my properly modified kayak cooler setup.

North Dakota Kayaking Campgrounds

State Parks with Paddling Access

Fort Ransom State Park

Location: Sheyenne River Valley
Camping: 20 sites, 2 cabins
Paddling: River access, rentals, shuttle service
Best For: Weekend river camping trips
Pro Tip: Book the Bjone House cabin – it's right on the river

Cross Ranch State Park

Location: Missouri River near Washburn
Camping: 60 sites, yurts available
Paddling: Direct Missouri River access
Best For: Multi-day river trips
Unique: Bison herd visible from river

Lake Metigoshe State Park

Location: Turtle Mountains
Camping: 130 sites, 4 cabins
Paddling: Lake and trail system
Best For: Family camping with varied skill levels
Bonus: Swim beach for non-paddlers

Fort Stevenson State Park

Location: Lake Sakakawea
Camping: 146 sites, marina
Paddling: Protected bay, open lake access
Best For: Base camp for lake exploration
Amenities: Full hookups, store, fuel

Primitive Paddle-In Camping

Missouri River Sandbars Between Garrison Dam and Bismarck, sandbars are legal for camping. No facilities, no fees, no crowds. I set up camp on a different bar each night during a four-day float last summer. Requirements:

Camp below high water mark
Leave no trace
Bring everything out
Watch for rising water

Little Missouri Backcountry Theodore Roosevelt National Park allows river camping with a free permit. Designated sites at Cottonwood and Juniper campgrounds, plus primitive camping between them. The isolation is complete – no lights visible except stars.

Lake Sakakawea Islands Several islands allow primitive camping. My favorite is Mallard Island near Garrison – sandy beaches, shade trees, and usually deserted. Remember: islands look closer than they are on big water. What seems like a 20-minute paddle often takes an hour.

Essential Gear for Paddling in ND State

The Prairie Wind Factor

North Dakota wind is no joke. I've been weather-bound on Sakakawea when 30 mph winds created 5-foot waves. Essential wind gear:

Low-profile kayak (less wind resistance)
Spray skirt for rough water
Weather radio or smartphone with radar
Patience to wait out bad conditions

Sun Protection on the Plains

With zero shade on most waters, sun protection is critical:

SPF 50+ sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours)
Long-sleeve sun shirt
Wide-brim hat that won't blow off
Polarized sunglasses with retention strap

I learned this the hard way with second-degree sunburn on Lake Oahe. Now I dress like a desert nomad and stay comfortable all day.

Navigation Tools

Getting lost is real here, especially on big lakes:

Waterproof GPS or phone with offline maps
Physical map backup (laminated)
Compass (phones die)
Whistle for fog situations

Wildlife Considerations

Bear spray for the Pembina Gorge area (black bears)
Insect repellent (mosquitoes can be biblical in June)
Snake awareness (prairie rattlers near shore)
Binoculars for bird watching

Rental Options and Services

Major Rental Locations

Bismarck-Mandan Area:

Paddle On North Dakota: Kayaks, SUPs, canoes, delivery available
Missouri Kayak Adventures: Tours and rentals
Harmon Lake location (seasonal)

Minot:

Minot Parks: $10/day, basic but cheap
First-come, first-served

Grand Forks:

Boathouse on the Red: Full service, right downtown
Ground Up Adventures: Rentals plus instruction

State Parks with Rentals:

Cross Ranch
Fort Ransom
Fort Stevenson
Icelandic
Lake Metigoshe
Lewis & Clark
Pembina Gorge

Guided Services

While most ND paddling is DIY, some outfitters offer guided trips:

Dakota Waters Resort (Lake Sakakawea)
Indian Hills Resort (charter tours)
Local paddling clubs often organize group trips

Seasonal Considerations

Spring (April-May)

Pros: High water, fewer bugs, bird migration Cons: Cold water, flooding possible, unsettled weather Best For: Pembina River rapids, early Missouri floats

Summer (June-August)

Pros: Warm weather, all waters accessible, long days Cons: Crowds (by ND standards), bugs, afternoon wind Best For: Lake paddling, family trips, camping

Fall (September-October)

Pros: Spectacular colors, no bugs, stable weather Cons: Shorter days, cold mornings, low water on some rivers Best For: Sheyenne Valley, Turtle Mountains, photography

Winter (November-March)

Unless you're into ice fishing, hang up the paddle. I tried winter paddling once on a 40-degree day in February – the ice shelves along shore make it sketchy, and hypothermia risk isn't worth it.

Route Planning and Safety

Water Levels Matter

Check USGS water gauges before heading out:

Little Missouri needs 2.5+ feet at Medora gauge
Pembina requires spring snowmelt or recent rain
Sheyenne is usually paddleable except during drought
Missouri below dams maintains steady flow

Weather Windows

I use this rule: If wind forecast exceeds 15 mph, I stay off big lakes. On rivers, wind matters less unless you're paddling upstream. Morning is almost always calmer than afternoon – I'm usually on the water by 7 AM.

Let Someone Know

Cell service is spotty to non-existent in most paddling areas. Before launching:

File a float plan with someone reliable
Share your put-in and take-out locations
Give an expected return time
Bring emergency signaling device

Local Hazards

Barbed wire fences: Common on rivers through ranch land
Electric fences: Especially on the Heart and Cannonball rivers
Sudden weather: Thunderstorms develop fast on the prairie
Agricultural runoff: Avoid paddling after heavy rains in farm country
Dam releases: Missouri River levels can change with Garrison Dam operations

Planning Your North Dakota Paddling Trip

Weekend Warrior Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning: Drive to Fort Ransom State Park
Afternoon: Paddle the Sheyenne River (5-mile downstream run)
Evening: Camp at the park, enjoy the Bjone House visitor center

Day 2:

Morning: Explore upstream sections of the river
Afternoon: Hike the prairie trails
Evening: Head home or extend to Lake Ashtabula

Week-Long Adventure

Days 1-2: Lake Sakakawea base camp and exploration Day 3: Drive to Theodore Roosevelt National Park Days 4-5: Little Missouri River overnight float Day 6: Travel to Pembina Gorge Day 7: Run the Pembina rapids, head home

Family-Friendly Options

With kids, stick to:

Lake Metigoshe's School Section Lake (no motors, calm water)
Harmon Lake near Mandan (facilities, rentals, shallow areas)
Fort Stevenson State Park (swim beach, protected paddling)
Valley City's Bjornson Golf Course launch (easy access, rentals)

Local Tips and Hidden Gems

Secret Spots

After three years of exploring, here are spots most people miss:

Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge: Southeast of Moffit, this refuge has a pristine paddling trail through prairie wetlands. No motors allowed, making it perfectly peaceful. The creek connecting the lakes is barely wide enough for a kayak – feels like paddling through a fairy tale.

Lake Tschida: Fed by the Heart River, this hidden reservoir near Elgin sees mostly local fishermen. The upper reaches where the river enters are spectacular – narrow channels through badlands formations.

Fordville Dam: This tiny impoundment on the Forest River is unknown outside the local area. Perfect for an evening paddle, with a surprising waterfall at the inlet during spring runoff.

Best Photo Ops

Sunrise on Devils Lake from Grahams Island
Sunset through the Pembina Gorge valley
Badlands reflections on the Little Missouri
Pelican colonies on Chase Lake (viewed from distance)
Fall colors on School Section Lake

Where Locals Eat After Paddling

Bismarck: Peacock Alley (burger and beer paradise)
Valley City: Dutton's Parlour (ice cream after Sheyenne paddle)
Walhalla: Frost Fire Park (mountain lodge feel after Pembina run)
Medora: Pitchfork Fondue (touristy but fun after Badlands float)

Comparing ND to Neighboring States

Having paddled extensively across the northern plains, here's how North Dakota stacks up:

Versus Minnesota: Less crowded, more solitude, fewer lakes but bigger ones Versus Montana: Easier access, warmer water, less dramatic but still beautiful Versus South Dakota: More water options, better facilities, less touristy Versus Manitoba: Similar prairie paddling, but ND has better weather and access

Conservation and Respect

North Dakota's waters remain pristine because paddlers respect them. Please:

Pack out everything (including organic waste in some areas)
Respect private property (many rivers flow through ranches)
Don't disturb nesting birds (especially on sandbars May-July)
Follow fire restrictions (prairie fires spread fast)
Support local businesses (they keep access open)

Getting Your Gear There

If you're bringing your own kayak, transporting it across the prairie is part of the adventure. Check out our guide on hauling kayaks in pickup trucks – especially useful since half of North Dakota drives trucks. For those flying in, most rental shops can deliver to your campground or hotel.

Apps and Resources

Before heading out, download these:

Go Paddling: Launch sites and routes
USGS Water Data: Real-time river levels
OnX Hunt: Shows property boundaries (important on rivers)
Windy: Best wind and weather forecasts
AllTrails: Some paddling routes included

For planning tools, our kayaking apps guide covers the essential digital tools every paddler needs.

FAQ Section

When is the best time for kayaking in North Dakota?

May through September offers the best conditions. Spring (May-June) has the highest water levels for river paddling, while summer provides the warmest weather for lake kayaking. I prefer early June – good water, fewer bugs, and perfect temperatures.

Do I need a permit to kayak in North Dakota?

No permits required for kayaking itself, but you need free backcountry permits for camping in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Some boat ramps charge small launch fees ($5-10), and state park entry requires a daily or annual pass.

What's the water temperature like for kayaking in ND?

Summer water temps range from 65-75°F on rivers and 70-80°F on shallow lakes. Spring and fall require wetsuit consideration – water can be 45-55°F. I always dress for immersion regardless of air temperature.

Are there any dangerous animals while paddling in North Dakota?

Generally safe, but be aware of: snapping turtles (won't bother you in water), prairie rattlesnakes (near shore), and black bears (Pembina Gorge area only). Bison near the Missouri River look peaceful but give them wide berth.

Can beginners kayak in North Dakota?

Absolutely! Lakes like Metigoshe's School Section and rivers like the Sheyenne offer perfect beginner conditions. Many state parks offer rentals with basic instruction. Start on small, calm waters and work up to bigger adventures.

Where can I rent kayaks in North Dakota?

Major rental locations include Paddle On (Bismarck), Minot Parks, Boathouse on the Red (Grand Forks), and seven state parks. Rates run $30-50/day with discounts for multiple days. Most include paddle, PFD, and basic instruction.

What about winter kayaking in ND?

I don't recommend it. Even on warmer winter days, ice shelves make launching dangerous, and hypothermia risk is extreme. Save paddling for May through October and try ice fishing instead during winter months.

How do I handle wind on large lakes?

Start early (before 10 AM), stay close to shore, and know your limits. If whitecaps form, get off the water. I've been windbound several times – better to wait it out than risk capsizing in cold prairie water.

Final Thoughts

North Dakota might not have mountains or oceans, but what it lacks in elevation it makes up for in solitude and raw prairie beauty. Every time I load my kayak for another ND adventure, I know I'm heading somewhere that most paddlers haven't discovered yet.

From the otherworldly Badlands of the Little Missouri to the endless horizons of Lake Sakakawea, from the hidden rapids of the Pembina Gorge to the gentle meanders of the Sheyenne, kayaking in North Dakota offers experiences you won't find anywhere else.

The best part? You'll likely have it all to yourself. While everyone else fights for parking at popular paddling destinations, you'll be floating through untouched wilderness, watching eagles fish and camping on your own private sandbar.

So load up your kayak (or rent one from the many affordable options), pick a river or lake from this guide, and discover why North Dakota river paddling has become the Midwest's best-kept secret. The prairie waters are waiting, and trust me – once you experience that big sky reflected in still water, with nothing but grass and horizon in every direction, you'll understand why some of us can't stay away.

See you on the water – if you can find me out there in all that beautiful emptiness!