Top 15 Resorts to Experience in North Dakota

Straddling the boundary between North Dakota and Canada is the International Peace Garden, a delicately crafted botanic garden from which the state derives its name. The fact that the garden was constructed as a collaborative endeavor between the two nations makes it particularly special; however, it is primarily the beauty of the park that resonates with the residents of North Dakota, mirroring the natural splendor present throughout the state.

North Dakota is characterized by breathtaking landscapes, showcased in the animated film Spirit, and features an array of contrasting conditions. From the dramatic canyons and towering limestone formations of the Badlands to the expansive grasslands that once supported vast herds of Mustangs and Buffalo, every aspect of North Dakota is stunningly picturesque.

Numerous state parks have been established to safeguard this natural beauty, along with a variety of museums and historical sites that recount the narratives of the expanding frontier while acknowledging the conflicts between settlers and Native Americans, which are integral to that history. The state commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition with significant sites along the journey where visitors can learn about the crucial role played by Sacagawea in ensuring the success of this exploration.

In addition to its historical and cultural offerings, North Dakota boasts a vibrant entertainment scene, including live music and theater venues dispersed across the state. Nevertheless, the most rewarding way to explore North Dakota is through outdoor activities. A multitude of options exist for travelers eager to experience the majesty of the North Dakota landscape firsthand.

Let’s explore the premier resorts in North Dakota:

1. Woodland Resort

Source: woodlandresort

Woodland Resort, located on Devil’s Lake, is a key destination for fishing and camping aficionados. As the only full-service lakeside resort on the lake, it boasts the largest fleet of boats and pontoons available. The site includes a lakeside restaurant and bar, as well as a general store stocked with bait, fishing lines, rods, and all essentials for a successful fishing venture.

The campground features cabins, modern suites, and motel rooms, offering diverse accommodations to suit all guests. The cabins are fully equipped, with multiple bedrooms (depending on the selection), a kitchen, laundry facilities, and a living area—ideal for preparing a meal from the day’s catch while reminiscing about the one that got away. For fishing enthusiasts, Woodland Resort at Devil’s Lake is a unparalleled choice in North Dakota.

Website: http://woodlandresort.com/

2. Haybale Heights Campground and Resort

Source: haybaleheights

Also situated on Devil’s Lake, Haybale Heights RV resort offers guided fishing tours and specializes in ice fishing seminars. The operators provide Snobear winter fishing tours, allowing guests to enjoy ice fishing on the lake while being transported in comfort.

The campground comprises a few cabins but predominantly caters to RV and tent sites. With minimal amenities, the focus is on fishing and hunting excursions in the lake and surrounding areas. Visitors to Haybale Heights come for a specific purpose; therefore, if fishing and hunting are your intentions without the need for the cabin comforts offered at Woodland Resort, this might be your ideal destination.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/haybaleheights/

3. Grand Lodge, Rolling Plains

Source: rollingplainsadventures

Rolling Plains Adventures in Sterling provides guided hunting services, located in prime areas for pheasant and deer hunting. The team at Rolling Plains maintains the Grand Lodge, which serves as accommodation for hunters participating in the tours. The lodge is a traditional timber hunting lodge adorned with meticulous details that capture the essence of the experience.

This lodge features a spacious central room where guests can share stories and unwind after a day’s activities. Moreover, it is within walking distance of pheasant and deer hunting zones, ensuring that guests can optimize their stay at the property. With its magnificent timber construction and a focus on guest requirements, the Grand Lodge is a vital destination for avid hunters.

Website: https://rollingplainsadventures.com/lodging/

4. Moose Creek Lodge

Source: resortsandlodges

Located centrally between Langdon, Cavalier, and Walhalla in North Dakota’s Rendezvous region, Moose Creek Lodge offers a tranquil retreat for hunters and conservationists alike. This self-contained lodge accommodates families and small groups, featuring a kitchenette, stereo, television, and outdoor BBQ facilities.

The surrounding environment is rich in wildlife, making it an exceptional spot for bird watching, photo safaris, or genuine hunting expeditions. The area abounds with historical significance, particularly with respect to Native American histories, offering intriguing tours. Engage with the outdoors and history of North Dakota through a visit to Moose Creek.

Website: http://www.moosecreeklodgend.com/

5. Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Center and Water Park

If you are in search of a family-oriented destination near the Spirit Lake Reservation, consider a water park resort. Positioned in Minot, North Dakota, this location is closely situated to numerous outdoor activities, with the Fort Berthold Reservation to the east and Devils Lake to the west.

Sleep Inn & Suites welcomes guests eager for activity! The indoor water park offers endless enjoyment for children, while parents may relax in the whirlpool hot tub. Additionally, guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each morning and dine at the on-site restaurants.

Website: https://www.choicehotels.com/north-dakota/minot/sleep-inn-hotels/

6. Indian Hills Resort

Source: fishindianhills

Indian Hills Resort has welcomed guests for thirty years along the banks of Lake Sakakawea, renowned for exceptional fishing. The resort offers log cabins, RV sites, and both powered and primitive tent camping options, making it ideal for various types of campers.

A convenience store is available at the resort for last-minute supplies, as well as a fully stocked bait and fishing shop catering to seasoned and novice fishermen alike. For those not fishing, there is access to a concrete boat ramp and paddleboat rentals on-site, and more than six miles of mountain bike trails that begin from the location.

Website: http://www.fishindianhills.com/

7. Spirit Lake Casino and Hotel

Source: spiritlakecasino

Accommodation choices at Spirit Lake Casino encompass the hotel complex, along with self-contained cabins and RV and camping facilities, rendering Spirit Lake one of the more accessible casinos in the country. A variety of rooms are available in the hotel, and its log cabins encapsulate the rustic aesthetic typical of much of the Peace Garden State.

With several dining options on-site, including restaurants and cafes, as well as a fitness center, swimming pools, and a casino complex with an auditorium, there is an abundance of activities available at Spirit Lake. Guests also have access to the lake and may participate in fishing and hunting excursions to nearby Devil Lake. For a vacation replete with activities and attractions, the casino at Spirit Lake is an excellent choice.

Website: http://spiritlakecasino.com/

8. Prairie Knights Casino and Resort

Source: prairieknights

Prairie Knights Casino, located south of Mandan, features a lodge comprising over 200 rooms, including 12 luxury suites, providing a comfortable retreat from the casino’s activities. The rooms are fully outfitted with safes, televisions, and kitchenettes, granting guests access to the casino pool and fitness center. The pool features a 125-foot water slide and a splash zone for children.

The venue hosts four restaurants and bars, offering diverse dining experiences. Furthermore, a large auditorium regularly features prominent performers. As a comprehensive holiday destination, Prairie Knights Casino Resort fulfills all the needs of its guests.

Website: http://prairieknights.com/

9. Sky Dancer Casino and Resort

Source: skydancercasino

Sky Dancer Casino and Resort, nestled in the wooded hills of the Turtle Mountains region of North Dakota, offers a unique landscape characterized by turtleback hills and scooped-out lakes amidst the expansive plains that largely define the state. This distinctive setting provides a striking area of scenic beauty.

The casino and hotel complex serves as an ideal base for guests wishing to explore this unique environment. With 192 rooms of varying opulence, multiple restaurants, a casino, and a theater for live performances, the resort guarantees an extraordinary experience in Northern North Dakota.

Website: http://www.skydancercasino.com/

10. Bismarck KOA RV Resort

Source: koa.com

The Bismarck KOA RV Resort, conveniently located off I-94, offers cabin, RV, and tent accommodations year-round. Positioned in Bismarck and in close proximity to Fort Abraham Lincoln and General Custer’s home, the resort serves as an excellent base for exploring the region. The complex features top-notch amenities that meet the expectations associated with a KOA site.

Guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool, basketball and tennis courts, and a playground for children, ensuring ample entertainment for the entire family between field trips. The Bismarck KOA Resort is conveniently located near numerous historical attractions and provides a comfortable destination at competitive prices.

Website: http://koa.com/campgrounds/bismarck/

11. Element Hotel

Source: elementfargo

The Element Hotel in West Fargo is a contemporary establishment located at the heart of the Red River Valley. It is conveniently situated near North Dakota State University and historic downtown Fargo. With 130 rooms ranging from Deluxe King accommodations (sleeps 2) to spacious Family Suites (sleeps 6), it offers a variety of options to suit any travel group’s needs and budget.

This eco-friendly (and pet-friendly) hotel maintains a breakfast bar on-site and features a gourmet convenience store offering ready-to-cook meals. Local grocers also provide delivery of online orders directly to guests’ rooms. Furthermore, the hotel includes a pool, a fitness center, and bike rentals for those looking to maintain an active lifestyle. An excellent choice for either a comfortable holiday stay or a business retreat, the modern ambiance of the Element Hotel in Fargo makes it a highly regarded destination.

Website: http://www.elementfargo.com/

12. Buffalo Gap Ranch

Source: buffalogapguestranch

If you wish to connect with the character and identity of North Dakota, few locations are as suitable as Buffalo Gap Guest Ranch. Positioned in Sentinel Butte, Western North Dakota, Buffalo Gap includes a Guest Ranch, Steakhouse, Bar, and Trailhead, as well as providing an opportunity to engage with the North Dakota Badlands.

Featuring 27 modern, air-conditioned rooms in log cabin style, the lodge and ranch present an exceptional experience in the state. The lodge provides guided hunting and fishing opportunities and serves as a prime starting point for exploring the Maah Daah Hey Trail, with space available to accommodate your horse. An opportunity like that is indeed rare! Buffalo Gap is a must-visit for anyone seeking a distinctive and personal experience of North Dakota.

Website: http://www.buffalogapguestranch.com/

13. Coteau des Prairies Lodge

Located in the quaint farming community of Sargent County, this upscale log cabin offers an ideal retreat for those seeking an escape. Guests have the option to select from a variety of rooms and suites, or even reserve the entire cabin for events such as weddings, accommodating up to 60 guests if necessary.

Apart from the beautiful cabin accommodations and included continental breakfast, guests can enjoy stunning views of the expansive prairie farmland that stretches below Coteau des Prairies. Groups can indulge in fresh, farm-to-table meals crafted by in-house chefs, available exclusively for your gathering. Furthermore, there is a reserved restaurant on-site and a plethora of local dining options nearby.

Website: https://cdplodge.com/

14. North Park Campground

Source: campnorthpark

Located in Dickinson, the North Park Campground provides RV and tent accommodations in a tranquil, secure, and family-oriented environment. In close proximity to three highly-rated golf courses in North Dakota, the campground serves as a capable base for short visits or overnight stays (with the added option of a round of golf before departing).

The campground also reserves overnight accommodations for Adventure Cycling members, designed specifically to cater to long-distance cyclists.

Website: http://www.campnorthpark.com/

15. Enchanted Castle Hotel

Source: enchantedcastlend

Situated away from the fast pace of daily life, the Enchanted Castle offers a unique and rustic elegance that captivates visitors. Although the hotel isn’t surrounded by mountainous landscapes, it compensates with a distinctive charm featuring exquisite seafood and succulent steak options that promise a delightful dining experience.

With separate breakfast rooms, a comprehensive gym, and a fitness center, this establishment caters to all fitness needs. After an invigorating workout, guests can relax in one of the luxurious 8-person hot tubs to soothe their muscles. Moreover, visitors can select from a range of accommodation types, including standard suites or a beautifully appointed honeymoon suite, all impeccably maintained. This hotel is an exceptional choice for those seeking solitude and a peaceful living experience!

Website: http://enchantedcastlend.com/