McDowell Dam Recreation Area
A pristine oasis for swimming, hiking, and family fun with scenic lake views and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
McDowell Dam Recreation Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine oasis for swimming, hiking, and family fun with scenic lake views and abundant wildlife.
"The trail around the lake is wonderful! I saw dozens of bird species and a great variety of trees, plants and flowers."
Cleanliness is Key
Help keep this gem pristine! Pack out all trash and be mindful of dog waste. 🐕
Early Bird Gets the Spot
Arrive before 10 AM on weekends for prime parking and beach access. 🚗
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 374 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Swimming
Designated swimming areas
Enjoy the refreshing, clean water perfect for a summer dip. Soft sand makes for a comfortable beach experience.
Scenic Lakeside Trails
Perimeter trail
Hike or bike the beautiful trail offering diverse flora, fauna, and stunning lake views.
Family Fun Zone
Playground and volleyball courts
Well-maintained playground and volleyball nets provide entertainment for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Doggy Day Out (with a caveat)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cleanliness is Key
Help keep this gem pristine! Pack out all trash and be mindful of dog waste. 🐕
Early Bird Gets the Spot
Arrive before 10 AM on weekends for prime parking and beach access. 🚗
Capture the Views
Bring your camera for breathtaking lake vistas and diverse birdwatching opportunities. 📷
Rentals Available
Check out equipment rentals for added fun on the water or courts. 🛶
Tips
from all over the internet
Cleanliness is Key
Help keep this gem pristine! Pack out all trash and be mindful of dog waste. 🐕
Early Bird Gets the Spot
Arrive before 10 AM on weekends for prime parking and beach access. 🚗
Capture the Views
Bring your camera for breathtaking lake vistas and diverse birdwatching opportunities. 📷
Rentals Available
Check out equipment rentals for added fun on the water or courts. 🛶
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
McDowell Dam Recreation Area is praised for its clean and well-maintained facilities, including swimming areas, playgrounds, and restrooms. Visitors enjoy the scenic lakeside trails, abundant birdlife, and opportunities for recreation like swimming and volleyball. While generally positive, some reviews mention issues with dog waste not being cleaned up.
"Water was n8ce great swimming area and volleyball nets set out well kept and clean"
Crispy drives
"I always get some beautiful pictures
Out here🥰"
Ejayveon Sheppard
"Pulling in to parking was smoothe , very clean grounds , nice size bathroom/shower area , clean playground. Sand to swimming area very soft lol water area clean and open gal at the equipment rental desk was super nice and had answers to all of my questions over all first time there great me and my doggy girl will be back !"
Tori Cline
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McDowell Dam Recreation Area is accessible by car. It's located near Bismarck, North Dakota. Use GPS navigation for the most direct route. Parking is available within the recreation area.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching McDowell Dam. Driving is the most common and convenient method for visitors.
From Bismarck, take US-83 North. Turn right onto County Road 132, then follow signs for McDowell Dam Recreation Area. Always check local road conditions before you travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a daily entrance fee per vehicle. It's advisable to check the official North Dakota Game and Fish Department website for the most current fee structure and operating hours before your visit.
McDowell Dam Recreation Area is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like restrooms and rental desks may have seasonal hours. Check the official website for details.
Picnic shelters are often available on a first-come, first-served basis, but some areas might allow reservations. Inquire with the park management or check their website for reservation policies.
Annual passes may be available for North Dakota Game and Fish Department managed areas, which could offer savings if you plan to visit multiple times. Inquire about these options.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, biking, picnicking, and birdwatching. There are also playgrounds and volleyball courts available.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at McDowell Dam, with designated areas offering clean water and sandy shores.
Absolutely! The trail around the lake is highly recommended for its scenic beauty, diverse plant life, and excellent lake views.
Yes, fishing is permitted. Ensure you have a valid North Dakota fishing license. Common species include walleye, northern pike, and perch.
Dogs are welcome at McDowell Dam, but they must be kept on a leash. Visitors have noted instances of dog waste, so please be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no on-site restaurants or food vendors. It's best to pack your own food and drinks for a picnic.
There are numerous picnic areas throughout the recreation area, many with tables and grills. Choose a spot with a view that suits your preference.
Yes, many picnic sites are equipped with grills, making it a great place for a barbecue. Ensure you follow any fire safety regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The trail around the lake offers diverse vantage points for capturing the water, surrounding nature, and wildlife. Sunrise and sunset can provide beautiful lighting.
You can spot various bird species, as well as other local fauna. The diverse plant life also makes for great nature photography.
Definitely. The expansive lake, rolling hills, and changing seasons offer excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit