Natural swimming hole

Clausen Springs Recreation Area swimming area

Lake · North Dakota

About this swimming hole

Clausen Springs Recreation Area is a 545-acre Barnes County Park Board recreation area on Clausen Springs Lake, about 4.5 miles west and 1.5 miles south of Kathryn. A swimming area with no lifeguard present is available close to the main camping area, with a shower house nearby, plus an accessible fishing dock, boat ramp, and a picturesque 2-mile loop around the lake. The North Country National Scenic Trail follows the park's northern boundary on an abandoned rail bed into Kathryn.

Good to know

Water typeLake
Fees$25/night electric campsites; $20/night primitive campsites; no charge for day use
Reservations requiredNo
Amenitiesswimming area, shower house, campground, fishing dock, boat ramp, hiking trails, playground
CountyBarnes County
Nearest townKathryn
Safety notesNo lifeguard on duty

Map

Official information

Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.

Nearby swimming holes

Frequently asked questions

Does Clausen Springs Recreation Area swimming area require reservations?

No reservations are required at Clausen Springs Recreation Area swimming area based on current information — but verify before you go.

Is there a fee to visit Clausen Springs Recreation Area swimming area?

Reported fee info: $25/night electric campsites; $20/night primitive campsites; no charge for day use. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.

Is Clausen Springs Recreation Area swimming area safe for swimming?

Reported safety notes: No lifeguard on duty. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — swim at your own risk.

Keep exploring

Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026