Sinclair Historic Refinery District | Rawlins

Lake Sakakawea is a large reservoir located in North Dakota, formed by the Garrison Dam on the Missouri River.

Visual Characteristics

Lake Sakakawea is a man-made reservoir with an irregular shoreline extending over 178 miles. The water color varies from deep blue to greenish-gray depending on depth and sediment load. The surrounding terrain consists of rolling prairies, interspersed with rugged badlands and sparsely vegetated hills. The Garrison Dam itself is a massive earth-fill structure, approximately 2 miles long and 210 feet high, constructed primarily of earth and rock.

Location & Access Logistics

The Garrison Dam is situated approximately 70 miles north of Mandan, North Dakota, along US Highway 83. Lake Sakakawea stretches across multiple counties, with primary access points near cities such as Pick City, Riverdale, and Killdeer. Several state parks and recreation areas provide boat ramps and parking facilities. Access to the dam itself is via County Road 101 from US Highway 83. Public transport is not available to the dam or lake areas.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Garrison Dam was constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers between 1947 and 1953 as part of the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program. Its primary purpose was flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and providing water for irrigation and navigation. Lake Sakakawea was created upon the dam's completion, inundating the original Missouri River valley. Ecologically, the reservoir has altered the natural flow and sediment transport of the Missouri River, creating a new aquatic habitat.

Key Highlights & Activities

Boating and fishing are primary activities on Lake Sakakawea, with opportunities for catching walleye, northern pike, and salmon. Hiking trails are available in the surrounding state parks. Visitors can tour the Garrison Dam Visitor Center to learn about its construction and operation. Birdwatching is also popular, with sightings of bald eagles and various waterfowl.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms and picnic areas are available at numerous state parks and recreation areas along the lake. Shade structures are present in designated day-use areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in populated areas near the dam and larger towns, but can be intermittent in remote sections of the lake. Food vendors are typically found in nearby towns such as Pick City and Riverdale.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for visiting Lake Sakakawea are from May through September, when temperatures are mild and water-based activities are most feasible. For photography of the dam, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination. Fishing is often best in spring and fall.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of Lake Sakakawea is its status as the third-largest artificial lake in the United States by surface area. The reservoir's name honors Sakakawea, the Shoshone woman who accompanied the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Nearby Landmarks

• Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site (25km Southwest)
• Fort Stevenson State Park (15km Northwest)
• Lewis and Clark State Park (40km West)
• Cross Ranch State Park (60km Southeast)