Lake Metigoshe State Park covers 1,551 acres of heavily forested land in the Turtle Mountains of northern North Dakota. The park surrounds a portion of Lake Metigoshe, a natural body of water spanning approximately 1,500 acres with numerous bays and inlets. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer highs typically range between 70-80°F, making cabin accommodations near Dunseith, North Dakota particularly popular during colder months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground offers multiple interpretive trails through wooded areas. "I walked the full Old Oak interpretive trail and the pamphlet that you pick up on the way in to camp was nice to have. There is poison ivy here. There was some on my campsite and some on the interpretive trail," notes Jennie S.
Water activities: Multiple water access points provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground. "A great place for getting in or on the water. Swimming next to campsites, boat launch site even closer. Fishing docks are plentiful," explains Nikki M.
International Peace Garden: Located about 30 minutes from cabins near Dunseith, this attraction spans the US-Canadian border. "The International Peace Garden is about a half hour drive and that was beautiful as well," shares one camper from Lake Metigoshe State Park.
What campers like
Diverse accommodations: Beyond the standard cabins, Lake Metigoshe offers options for different comfort preferences. "This State Park is in North Dakota near the Canadian border. With a very large body of water that has many amenities from fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding," reports Brandi M.
Clean facilities: Jan's RV Park and Lodge maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "The restroom and shower are clean; a good supplement to our camper," writes Sheila T., adding that "You can get gas across the street and find most anything you need at the attached convenience store."
Nature immersion: The wooded setting provides privacy at many sites. "Camp sites are close but had trees and natural grasses so it feels like you are in your own private woods," explains Patti E. from Lake Metigoshe State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The cabins near Dunseith operate year-round but with varying availability. Winter visitors should prepare for snow and cold temperatures, while summer brings increased activity levels.
Site characteristics: Many campsites at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground feature unique terrain. "Campsites were nice & taken care of! Some sites were elevated or lowered with a few stairs; kinda cool!" reports Ason S.
Local services: Basic supplies can be found at convenience stores attached to some facilities. At Jan's RV Park, "You can get most anything you need at the attached convenience store. We enjoyed the ice cream and a walk through town," according to one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational programming: Lake Metigoshe schedules regular events for younger visitors. "Activities set up for families/kids each weekend. Nice playground between loops too," notes Ason S.
Swimming areas: Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground maintains a dedicated beach area. "Swim beach was a bit of a walk, but totally worth it!! Great sandy beach & nice water!!" shares one camper.
Unexpected treats: Some seasonal amenities provide extra enjoyment for children. "There was even an Ice cream truck that rolled thru everyday for the kiddos!" mentions Brandi M. about her stay at Lake Metigoshe.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility: Jan's RV Park and Lodge offers easy access for larger vehicles. "Nice little park right by the highway. Passport America good for one night," notes Dawn D., who used the location while traveling to the International Peace Garden.
Leveling requirements: Some sites may require adjustment for RVs. "Our site #6 needed leveling blocks but got pretty flat," explains Thomas R. from Jan's RV Park, though he adds that other amenities like "Power, water, sewer; a bathroom with a shower; good wifi" compensate for this minor inconvenience.
Hookup placement: RV sites at Jan's feature well-designed utility connections. "The site was level and hookups were well-positioned," reports Sheila T., making setup easier for travelers.
