Icelandic State Park

In the extreme northeast of North Dakota, just a few kilometers from the Canadian border, lies one of the most beautiful and yet unknown state parks in the state. Icelandic State Park owes its name to the Icelandic immigrants who settled in this region at the end of the 19th century and have shaped their culture to this day.

In contrast to the vast prairies in the west, a surprisingly varied landscape with dense forests, gentle hills, small lakes and the picturesque Renwick Dam Recreation Area awaits you here. The combination of nature, history and tranquility makes the park an ideal destination for anyone who wants to experience North Dakota off the beaten track.

Category | Information

Situation | Cavalier County

Ideal stay | 1⁄2–1 day

Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.

Nature | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

History | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Family Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The historic Gunlogson family farm house is one of the most beautiful cultural attractions in the park.

The lovingly restored wooden house gives an authentic impression of the life of the first settlers.

Around the building several natural trails lead through forests and wetlands.

The Homestead looks particularly idyllic in autumn when the surrounding maple and aspen forests are colorful.

The small museum tells the story of Icelandic immigrants and the first settlers in North Dakota.

The following can be seen:

historical tools

Furniture

Photographs

Daily objects

Agricultural equipment

The reservoir forms the scenic center of the park.

Here you are:

Quiet bays

Picnic areas

Boat docks

Beautiful Viewpoints

A perfect place for a relaxing break.

In the early morning, the surrounding forests often reflect almost perfectly in the calm water.

Several monuments remind of the Icelandic immigrants and their contribution to the development of the region.

Several well-developed hiking trails lead through:

Mixed forests

Wetlands

open meadows

Coastal landscapes

The paths are easy to moderate and also suitable for families.

On the quiet Renwick Lake you can take relaxing paddle tours.

Ideal for beginners.

The lake is known for:

Pike

Perch

Sunfish

Especially locals appreciate the quiet atmosphere.

The varied landscape offers a habitat for numerous bird species.

With a little luck you discover:

Whitehead sea eagle

Osprey

Series

Beaver

White-tailed deer

In the park itself there is only a small souvenir shop.

For purchases, the nearby town of Cavalier is recommended.

Cozy café with:

Breakfast

Sandwiches

homemade cakes

A good address for regional cuisine after a trip to the park.

One of the most beautiful campsites in North Dakotas.

Benefits:

Full Hook-up (partly)

modern sanitary facilities

Large pitches

Quiet location

Direct access to hiking trails

Ideal for Fifth Wheels.

Near nature campsite directly on the lake.

Perfect for anglers and kayakers.

The access roads and pitches are also excellently suited for large Fifth Wheels. Thanks to the dense trees, the campsites are among the most shady in North Dakota.

Plan enough time for the trails around Gunlogson Homestead. Many visitors focus only on the lake and miss the most beautiful natural areas of the park.

The combination of water, forest and autumn colours makes the park one of the best photo spots in North Dakotas during Indian Summer.

The park is small on the map – in fact, there are numerous paths and sights that can take several hours.

Mosquitoes can be numerous, especially in wetlands. Insect protection is recommended.

Food options in the park are limited. Take enough drinks and snacks with you.

Before you travel, inform yourself about seasonal opening hours of the Pioneer Heritage Center.

Icelandic State Park is one of North Dakotas' most underestimated natural destinations. The mixture of calm lakes, shady forests and the exciting history of Icelandic immigrants makes it an ideal place for anyone who wants to travel far away from the big tourist streams.