Little Missouri State Park Day Use

Closed — Closed for the season. The park operates seasonally from May through October and closes during winter due to weather conditions.

About

Little Missouri State Park is a 6,000-acre oasis in western North Dakota's Badlands, located 10 miles north of Killdeer near the confluence of the Little Missouri River and Lake Sakakawea. The day-use area serves as the primary access point for the park's extensive trail system and recreational facilities. Visitors can explore over 40 miles of trails that wind through picturesque badlands terrain, suitable for both hiking and horseback riding. The park features three picnic shelters available for day-use rental: one small shelter (Aspen) and two large shelters (Ponderosa and Redwood). These shelters provide shade and gathering spaces for groups exploring the park. The day-use area includes parking facilities near the park office, providing convenient access to the trail network. As one of North Dakota's designated horse parks, the facility is equipped with 81 corrals, a round pen, and other equestrian amenities. The park's trails traverse privately-owned land in addition to state park property, offering expansive views of the waterways rolling through the rugged badlands landscape. This quiet park provides an opportunity to experience North Dakota's backcountry and truly unplug from modern life. Wildlife common to the region includes coyotes, eagles, hawks, and deer.

Directions

From Killdeer, ND, head north on Highway 22 for approximately 10 miles. Turn right onto 103rd Avenue NW and continue for about 2 miles to reach the park entrance.

Nearby Campgrounds