Natural swimming hole
McDowell Dam Recreation Area beach
Lake · North Dakota
About this swimming hole
McDowell Dam Recreation Area is a 271-acre park just east of Bismarck, owned by the Burleigh County Water Resource District and managed by Bismarck Parks & Recreation. The official park page lists a beach among its features, and park photos show people enjoying the beach and water. A concessions stand rents paddleboats, paddle boards, canoes, and kayaks from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, and the park also has a 0.6-mile paved loop trail, a 2.4-mile unpaved trail, two playgrounds, volleyball, and four reservable picnic shelters.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | Memorial Day to Labor Day |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | parking lot on site |
| Amenities | beach, playgrounds, volleyball, picnic shelters, trails, boat ramp, kayak launch, restrooms, equipment rentals |
| County | Burleigh County |
| Nearest town | Bismarck |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Does McDowell Dam Recreation Area beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at McDowell Dam Recreation Area beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
When is the best time to visit McDowell Dam Recreation Area beach?
The best season is typically Memorial Day to Labor Day.