Lake Metigoshe State Park

Nestled in the scenic Turtle Mountains along the U.S./Canadian border, Lake Metigoshe is one of the most popular year-round vacation spots in North Dakota.

The small lakes within the park provide opportunities for fishing, canoeing, boating and swimming. A multitude of trails attract hikers and mountain bikers. Winter brings snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, sledders and ice fishing enthusiasts.

The Lake Metigoshe area was home to several Native American tribes, including the Blackfoot and Hidatsa, and later the Assiniboine and Chippewa. The lake takes its name from the Chippewa phrase, "metigoche washegum," or clear lake surrounded by oak trees. Of all of North Dakota's state parks, Lake Metigoshe contains the greatest acreage of land remaining in its natural condition. The park's woodlands and wetlands are uncommon finds for visitors accustomed to North Dakota's expansive prairie vistas. Aspen and oak woodlands, as well as wetlands, cover much of the park and provide habitat for a wide variety of plant, animal and bird species seldom seen elsewhere in North Dakota.