North Dakota is by far one of the most underrated states when it comes to visiting. While people are visiting the same places over and over again that they see on pretty postcards, they're missing out on the pure beauty of the Peace Garden State. There are quite a few places here that are better than anywhere else, and not enough people know about them. This state deserves some more recognition for these eight spots, and more.

1. Prairie Pothole Region

The name may not sound wonderful, but the prairie pothole region is a unique and gorgeous part of North Dakota. The grassy, rolling hills of the prairie are dotted with hundreds of lakes and ponds in the depressions among the landscape. It is also a place home to thousands upon thousands of birds, especially waterfowl, and it's a migration pit stop for even more birds.

2. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

North Dakota has just one national park, but it is definitely the best in the country. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park encompasses the stunning badlands. When you're there, you can see the rugged terrain and winding river go on as far as the eye can see. This place is also a hotspot for spotting wildlife such as bison, wild horses, elk, and more.

3. Gunlogson Nature Preserve

This unique and tranquil nature preserve has such lush forests and vegetation, it'll drop the jaw of anyone who's ever made a "North Dakota's state tree is a telephone pole" joke. This is a place where you can find some plants and animals that you can't see anywhere else in the state.

4. Lake Sakakawea

The massive Lake Sakakawea is everything great about a lake. Besides having more miles of coastline than the entire state of California, Lake Sakakawea also has the best recreation opportunities and the prettiest views.

5. Small Town, North Dakota

We have to give some credit to North Dakota's small towns, which are definitely better than any other state's small towns. These towns are full of charm and a strong sense of community, and you never know what kind of gems they are hiding. Their stories and history raise up many people who are proud to call their little towns home.

6. Sheyenne River Valley

This beautiful river winds through places like Jamestown, Valley City, and the stunning Fort Ransom State Park. It is the reason Valley City is the "city of brides," and the reason a bridge like the Hi-Line Railroad bridge (shown above) exists.

7. Pembina Gorge

It doesn't get much more gorgeous than the Pembina Gorge in autumn. The heavily forested valley hills turn into canvases of vibrant colors and the Pembina River itself is great for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or simply exploring. It's this gorge that also has places like Frost Fire Mountain with some of the best skiing in the area.

8. Lake Tschida

It's no secret that a lot of people love North Dakota's section of Lake Tschida. Whether you go out there to boat, swim, fish, or enjoy the views from the shore, you are sure to be in for a good time.

Where are your favorite places in North Dakota? Do you know of any place you think deserves to be on this list? Let us know! You can also join the North Dakota Nature Lover's Facebook group to share photos of your most loved spots in the Peace Garden State.

The small town depicted in this list is Taylor, ND, which has a unique horse festival shown in the photo. Read more about it here.