Okay, okay, let's be real here for a moment: North Dakota isn't exactly a shining beacon of tourism. In fact, it's pretty well-known that North Dakota is the least-visited state in the country (for some reason), and you know what? We think that's a pretty bad deal. North Dakota is home to 13 beautiful state parks, all of which are very much worth a visit. Of course, naturally, some of North Dakota's state parks are more popular than others, but that doesn't mean the lesser-popular ones AREN'T worth a visit. In fact, we think the lesser-crowded options are often the best ones, and to prove it, let's take a closer look at one of those lesser-appreciated gems. Grahams Island State Park is a stunning hidden state park in North Dakota that you'll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Check it out!
Located on a little island in the middle of Devil's Lake is Grahams Island State Park, a stunningly beautiful little slice of paradise with some of the best camping and fishing in the United States.
Trust us: the photos, though lovely, simply don't do it justice. You've got to experience this one for yourself.
Every acre of the park is beautiful, and we think you'll enjoy it so much you'll find plenty of reasons to come back as soon as possible.
Of course, there ARE lots of reasons already built in for this thought process. Let us count the ways: the water is crystal-clear and blue, perfect for fishing, boating, and dipping your toes in.
The shorelines of the island are scenic and elegant, being enormously picturesque for photos and lending to an atmosphere of total chill for anyone lucky enough to come and enjoy it for the day (or longer).
Of course, the lake is wonderful, but it's not the only reason this state park is such a treat. It's one of many reasons, really, all of which are perfectly valid and beckon us to come ever closer.
It doesn't get a lot better on hot days than a lake as beautiful as Devil's Lake shimmering in the sun, but it still remains pretty great.
There are three excellent hiking trails to embark upon at Grahams Island State Park. None of them are overly lengthy - the longest trail on the island is just three miles long - but each is certainly worth a try!
And, perhaps best of all, there's world-class camping here year-round!
Grahams Island State Park is home to an impressive 38 modern plus campsites, 70 modern campsites, five group plus campsites, 15 modern group campsites, 12 group primitive campsites, and nine primitive campsites. But not to worry - it's rarely, if ever, crowded here.
Campers will want to make their reservations no less than 95 days in advance.
If you're not a fan of roughing it and traditional camping, you can always reserve a cabin on the island instead! You'll also find some great amenities, like a bait shop, gas pump, fish cleaning station, showers, flush toilets, and more.
For reservations and more information about planning your adventure at Grahams Island State Park, check out the official North Dakota Parks and Rec website.
Where's your favorite place to go camping in North Dakota? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
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