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Access Site ND

Lake Sakakawea

Lake Sakakawea • Missouri River

Source: north_dakota_game_and_fish_department Updated 1 year ago

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City: Charlson, ND
County: Williams County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 48.15375700, -102.85466400
543W+G4 Charlson, ND, USA
Air Temp: --
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Nearby Gauge Conditions
White Earth River above Mouth near Manitou, ND 3.3 mi away
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White Earth River at White Earth, ND 9.8 mi away
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Real-time data from USGS Water Services
About This Access Site
The Charlson access site on Lake Sakakawea in Williams County provides boat ramp access to North Dakota's largest reservoir. This popular day-use area offers convenient launching for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats seeking to explore the expansive 368,000-acre lake. The site includes basic amenities and is situated in a scenic area with good recreational opportunities.

Lake Sakakawea is a massive impoundment with varied conditions depending on water levels and weather. Paddlers should be prepared for open water conditions and wind exposure typical of large prairie reservoirs. Multiple access points exist around the lake, including nearby facilities at Lewis and Clark State Park (featuring multi-lane and single-lane ramps with courtesy docks) and the Riverdale area off Highway 200. Water conditions can change seasonally, so checking current ramp conditions before visiting is recommended, as heavy rain or flooding may temporarily affect usability.