Natural swimming hole
Lake Sakakawea beaches
Lake · North Dakota
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Lake Sakakawea's swim beaches, including those at Lake Sakakawea State Park and Fort Stevenson State Park, front the third-largest reservoir in the U.S. The Missouri River reservoir's sandy shoreline stretches for miles. It is North Dakota's big-water swim, with campgrounds and trails along the shore.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 60s to low 70s in summer |
| Depth | shallow beach entry |
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | State park entrance fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | state park lots |
| Amenities | swim beaches, campgrounds, boat ramps, trails |
| County | McLean County |
| Nearest town | Garrison |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; huge lake — wind and waves |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Lake Sakakawea beaches?
Yes — Lake Sakakawea beaches is listed as a natural swimming spot in North Dakota. Reported water temperature: 60s to low 70s in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; huge lake — wind and waves. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Lake Sakakawea beaches require reservations?
No reservations are required at Lake Sakakawea beaches based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Lake Sakakawea beaches?
Reported fee info: State park entrance fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Lake Sakakawea beaches?
The best season is typically June-August.