If you've got a free weekend ahead of you and you aren't sure what to fill it with, consider staying near home and visiting one of North Dakota's many awesome vacation spots. Whether you feel like camping outdoors or exploring some of our big cities, there is plenty of options right here in the Peace Garden State that are undeniably fun. Check out these great ideas of weekend trips to take this summer:

1. A weekend camping at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

North Dakota's Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is a fantastic weekend getaway destination if you love the outdoors, history, and fun. With plenty of campgrounds and cabins you can easily spend a couple of nights here under the stars while filling the days with fun adventures. The park includes places like the historic Custer House, the On-A-Slant Indian Village, and of course the Fort Abraham Lincoln itself. Plus, this state park has North Dakota's one and only operating trolley that will give you a fun ride through the natural beauty and historic sites.

Fort Abraham Lincoln is located 4480 Fort Lincoln Rd., Mandan, ND 58554. Reservations must be made ahead of time for campgrounds and cabins, so please keep that in mind.

2. An urban exploration of North Dakota's biggest city, Fargo

If you haven't been to Fargo yet, definitely consider it! The downtown area is full of things to explore. Stay at its iconic Hotel Donaldson, visit the Fargo Theatre, try some of the many amazing top rated restaurants, check out the Plains Art Museum, and so much more. There is definitely enough things to pack a full weekend of fun and more.

3. Take a lake vacation at North Dakota's biggest lake, Lake Sakakawea

With more miles of shoreline than the entire state of California, Lake Sakakawea has a lot to offer when it comes to summer weekend getaways. You can experience it at a resort along the water or camping in places like Lake Sakakawea State Park, Fort Stevenson State Park, or Lewis and Clark State Park. Each has plenty of trails to hike, swimming beaches, marinas, cabins, and just about everything else you need for a fantastic experience all together.

4. Experience the wild west in the charming town of Medora

A weekend trip to Medora is one of those North Dakotan must-do's. Stay at the Rough Riders Hotel, visit the various local museums and Cowboy Hall of Fame, take a tour of the mansion owned by the man who founded the town called Chateau de Mores, and spend the day in the badlands at the Theodore Roosevelt National Park before finishing off the night with the Medora Musical. All that and so much more is waiting for you here - you definitely need to do this at least once in your lifetime!

5. Relax by the water and cast a line for some fishing at Devils Lake

Devils Lake is North Dakota's largest natural lake and also is one of the most popular spots for fishing, and for good reason. There are plenty of hotel and resorts around the lake as well as the Graham Island State Park, on an island in the lake, with campgrounds, cabins, trails, and more. Whether you plan on taking a boat out on the water or sitting shoreside, you'll love a relaxing weekend vacation at Devils Lake.

6. Unwind out on the prairie at the Coteau des Prairies Lodge in Havana

Out in the southeast part of North Dakota in the totally unique "prairie pothole" region is a lodge that is absolutely perfect for a weekend of relaxation and unwinding. It is perched on one of the many rolling hills in a landscape that is dotted with hundreds of ponds and lakes. This is a great area for hunting getaways or simply taking in some fresh air and clearing your mind.

Coteau des Prairies Lodge is located at 9953 141st Ave. SE, Havana, ND 58043. Reservations are required for a stay here, so you will need to contact them ahead of time.

Where is your favorite weekend destination in North Dakota? You definitely don't have to leave the state to be able to enjoy yourself away from home. If you really need to take a break and are thinking more spa-like setting, why not try the state's one and only salt cave?