This State Park On The Missouri River Is An Ideal Spot For Camping And Fishing

The Missouri River is the longest river in the United States, meandering through both the Central and Western areas. With a rich history dating back to its initial Native American inhabitants, the Missouri River today offers outdoor lovers a chance to enjoy the winding water in much the same way. Cross Ranch State Park is located in Center, North Dakota, less than 50 miles from the capital city of Bismarck. With almost 600 acres of land and 17 miles of trails, the park offers an abundance of outdoor recreational activities including camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and cross-country skiing. 

There are two campgrounds offering a variety of cabins, yurts, and RV sites, which can be rented year-round. Cabins and yurts come fully-equipped and require a two-night minimum stay. Or go the more primitive route and pitch a tent. Other park amenities include playgrounds, a visitor center, picnic tables, grills and shelters and a place to hold meetings and events.

If you're bringing an RV or trailer, their sites offer electrical hookups and WI-FI. The campgrounds include shower and toilet facilities, picnic shelters, playgrounds, and an amphitheater. If you'd like to feel like a real explorer, take this popular road trip route and experience the best of the northern US. Learn more about the famous prairie expedition of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center in Washburn, North Dakota.  At the park, you'll find a ramp to launch your boat for an ideal fishing spot. Cast your line for walleye, trout, catfish, salmon, pike, and bass. Go kayaking or canoeing with your own boat or a rental from the park. Trips along the river can range from two to nine miles.

Adventure through 17 miles of trails that range from 2 to 5 miles. Trails are open for hiking and mountain biking. Some of the trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. A trail map is available at the Visitor Center or the trail head. Along the trail, adventurers can explore the 5,000 acre Cross Ranch Nature Preserve, featuring pristine grasslands, lush forests, herds of wildlife, and over 100 bird species.

Those interested in history will want to explore the many archeological sites that show evidence of Native American villages that date back 8,000 years.  A two-mile, self-guided Prairie Trail hiking tour from The Nature Conservancy crosses over a preserved prairie and bison pasture, letting you see these amazing animals in their natural habitat.

Elsewhere in North Dakota lies a hike in another midwest State Park that is like a magical winter wonderland. You can also spot majestic wildlife at the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.