North Dakota Lake Properties For Sale (1)

As you stare across sacred lands of North Dakota, it's easy to become transported to a different time. The untouched beauty of North Dakota makes it easy to imagine what early explorers such as Lewis and Clark felt as they laid eyes upon this enchanting landscape. With less than a million residents statewide, North Dakota provides a bucolic atmosphere almost anywhere you travel.

North Dakota's major lakes are formed by the mighty Missouri River. The Missouri runs from the state capital of Bismarck to Williston, with man-made and natural lakes formed throughout its length. These lakes provide a plethora of water sports, fishing, and beautiful lake property.

Devils Lake

Devils Lake, located less than 100 miles from Grand Forks and is the largest natural body of water in the state. The lake is endorheic, formed by a collection of rainwater with no inlet or outlet. The unique properties of this lake have made it the "Perch Capital of the World" with numerous opportunities for fishing and other water sports. Ice fishing is particularly popular on the lake. Due to the record rainfalls and the lake's unique properties, flooding was fear to be an issue - however, flood relief projects have been implemented that divert waters to the Red River basin. Lake homes on the shores of Devils lake begin at around $300,000 while undeveloped lots are available and begin around $99,000 per half-acre.

Lake Sakakawea

Near Bismarck sits the 75 mile long Lake Sakakawea. Formed by the Garrison Dam, Sakakawea is the third largest man-made lake in the United States. It is fed by the mighty Missouri river and named in honor of Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who assisted Lewis and Clark. With over 1,300 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 180 feet, Lake Sakakawea offers numerous opportunities to fish for their Brown, Rainbow and Lake trout. The diversity of water conditions also creates habitats for chinook salmon, walleye, sauger and giant northern pike. Lake homes on its beautiful shores cost around $350,000, but vary significantly depending on location.

Lake Metigoshe

One of the largest North Dakota lakes nestled among the Turtle Mountains on the border of Canada, Lake Metigoshe offers endless opportunities for waterfront recreation. Nearby towns of Bottineau and Dunseith offer numerous additional activities and a delightful frontier charm. One-eighth of the lake is located in Manitoba, Canada. Nearby Boundary lake also shares a shore with Canada—the small island in Boundary Lake is the smallest island in the world that is divided by an international boundary. Metigoshe is also located near the famous 3.65 square mile International Peace Garden. Homes on the shore of the Lake Metigoshe sell for approximately $475,000, but many other lakefronts are available in the region.

Lake Oahe

Extending from Cannon Ball, North Dakota, all the way down to Pollock, South Dakota, Lake Oahe is the fourth largest man-made lake in the U.S., formed by the Oahe dam. The hydroelectric plant formed by this dam produces most of the energy for the upper Midwest. Excellent walleye fishing and ample boat access is to be found in this immense, interstate lake. Homes on the lake begin around $80,000.

Considerations for North Dakota Lake Property

North Dakota's Game and Fish department puts considerably fewer regulations on lake property than most states. This does not mean that home owners don't have a responsibility to be educated about their impact on wildlife. Lakeshore development projects should sustain or improve the beautiful foliage and wildlife that attracted buyers to the property in the first place.

All laws regarding fish, game and natural resources are administered at the gubernatorial level. It becomes important to check with state and local government when purchasing property. A licensed real estate agent in the area will better understand you needs and local laws when selecting property.

North Dakota also runs the Private Lands Initiative, which provides financial and technical assistant to landowners who participate in conservation efforts and allow public us of their land. These programs range from tree-planting initiatives to wetland conservation project. Enrolling in these programs allow landowners to become proactive in preserving the natural beauty of their land, while also receiving money from State and Federal sources. Agreements can range from 3 years to more. Home owners can find out what options are available by checking with a North Dakota Fish and Game office.

When looking into lakefront property in North Dakota, it's important to be patient. Great opportunities are available all throughout this majestic state. A little bit of research and understanding is all that's needed to create a winning scenario—for the buyer and the state of North Dakota!