Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is a public state park in North Dakota in Cavalier County. Spanning 1,236 acres and established in 2012, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | North Dakota |
| County | Cavalier |
| Park Size | 1,236 acres |
| Established | 2012 |
Location & Getting There
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is located North Dakota. The park’s coordinates are 48.9419, -98.0638.
Things to Do
North Dakota state parks showcase the dramatic western Badlands, expansive prairie grasslands, and large Missouri River reservoirs. Activities include hiking through the colorful, eroded Badlands formations, fishing for walleye and northern pike in Lake Sakakawea and other reservoir lakes, camping under spectacular starry Great Plains skies, boating and water skiing, cross-country skiing in winter, horseback riding through open prairie, and exploring Lewis and Clark expedition history and Native American heritage sites.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is the primary season, with long warm days ideal for lake recreation and hiking. Fall (September) brings golden cottonwoods along the rivers and excellent wildlife viewing. Spring (May) offers peaceful green landscapes. Winter is extremely cold (-20°F possible) and most park facilities close, though the Badlands in snow are hauntingly beautiful for the well-prepared adventurer.
Visitor Tips
North Dakota requires a vehicle entrance fee at state parks ($7/day or $35/annual). Camping through the North Dakota Parks website. The state’s parks are spread across vast distances — plan your route and fuel stops carefully. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (adjacent to several state parks) is the star attraction of western North Dakota. Bring warm layers even in summer — evenings cool rapidly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit North Dakota state parks?
A daily vehicle pass costs $7. An annual pass costs $35. Multi-park passes and camping combo options are also available.
What are the best state parks in North Dakota?
Theodore Roosevelt (though federally managed, the state’s pride), Fort Abraham Lincoln (Custer’s last post), Turtle River, and Lake Metigoshe are popular destinations offering diverse Badlands and prairie experiences.
Can I see wild horses at North Dakota parks?
Wild feral horses roam in Theodore Roosevelt National Park (federal), not state parks, but Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park offers frontier history including reconstructed Mandan earth lodges and Custer’s home.
What is the best time to visit North Dakota state parks?
Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather and longest days. Fall brings stunning Badlands colors. Spring is short and windy. Winters are extremely cold (-20°F possible) with most parks having limited services.
Explore More North Dakota State Parks
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area is one of many outstanding state parks in North Dakota. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in North Dakota guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
