Douglas Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Douglas, North Dakota.


Introduction to Douglas

Nestled in the Lakes and Gardens region of North Dakota, Douglas is a charming town with plenty to offer to visitors. It is located in the heart of the state, making it easily accessible, and is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors to Douglas can enjoy everything from hiking and biking to cultural attractions and local cuisine. This comprehensive tour guide will highlight the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Douglas, North Dakota.

List of Places to Visit in Douglas

Whether you’re interested in culture or outdoor activities, Douglas has something to offer for everyone. Below is a list of places to visit in Douglas:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Clark State Historic Site: This site offers visitors a glimpse into Native American and pioneer history through a variety of exhibits, including a reconstructed fort and a museum.
  • Veterans Memorial Park: Honoring the brave service men and women, this park features a collection of memorials dedicated to U.S. military veterans with one specific to the Vietnam War.

Natural Attractions of Douglas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Sakakawea: With over 2000 miles of shoreline, Lake Sakakawea is a popular destination for swimming, boating, fishing, and camping.
  • Harmon Lake Recreation Area: Located just north of Douglas, this park offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Douglas

For outdoor enthusiasts, Douglas offers plenty of opportunities to explore the beautiful natural scenery. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Douglas include:

  • Sakakawea Loop: This 7.5-mile loop trail winds around Lake Sakakawea and offers scenic views of the water and the surrounding landscape.
  • Lewis and Clark State Park Trails: With over 10 miles of trails, this park is perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.

Best Things to Do in Douglas: Activities and Tours

  • Bird watching in Dakota Lake National Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife refuge offers visitors a chance to see a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
  • Fishing in Lake Sakakawea: Anglers can catch a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, and catfish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Douglas

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Douglas:

Day Activity
1 Visit Fort Clark State Historic Site
2 Hike Sakakawea Loop
3 Explore Dakota Lake National Wildlife Refuge
4 Fishing in Lake Sakakawea
5 Scenic bike ride in Lewis and Clark State Park
6 Visit Veterans Memorial Park
7 Relax at Harmon Lake Recreation Area

Food and Drink Scene of Douglas

Must-Try Dishes

  • Knoephla Soup: A hearty soup made with dumplings, potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions, this dish is a local favorite.
  • Bison Burger: A tasty alternative to traditional beef burgers, bison burgers are a must-try when in Douglas.

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Rose Meadery: Located in nearby Rugby, this meadery produces delicious honey-based wines and meads.
  • North Dakota Craft Breweries: The state is home to a growing craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering unique and flavorful beers.

Where to Stay in Douglas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground: This campground offers over 100 campsites overlooking Lake Sakakawea and is perfect for camping and RV enthusiasts.
  • Rugby Motor Inn: Located in the nearby town of Rugby, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Douglas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Prairie Wildflowers: North Dakota is home to a variety of beautiful wildflowers, and visitors can take home a bouquet or seeds to grow their own.
  • Native American Crafts: Fort Clark State Historic Site’s gift shop sells a variety of authentic Native American crafts handcrafted by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Douglas

North Dakota has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors to Douglas can learn more about it through the town’s museums and historical sites. Local customs include hunting and fishing and enjoying the great outdoors.

Best Time to Visit Douglas

The best time to visit Douglas is during the summer months (June-August), when temperatures are warm and days are long. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, boating, and swimming.

Do’s and Don’ts of Douglas

Do:

  • Respect the local wildlife and be sure to pack out any trash.
  • Take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails in the area.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in the parks and wilderness areas.
  • Disturb the local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Douglas

Douglas is a safe town with a low crime rate. Visitors should exercise the same common sense and caution they would in any other city.

Health in Douglas

Visitors to Douglas should be aware that ticks are prevalent in the area during the summer months and take appropriate measures to protect against tick-borne illnesses, such as Lyme disease.

Getting to Douglas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Douglas

  • Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS): Located approximately two hours from Douglas, BIS offers daily flights to major U.S. cities.

Bus Stations Near Douglas

  • Jefferson Lines: Offers bus service to and from Douglas from nearby cities.

Other Options

  • Renting a car: Visitors can rent a car at Bismarck Municipal Airport or in nearby towns to explore the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Douglas

The best way to get around Douglas is by car. However, for outdoor enthusiasts, hiking and biking trails offer a great way to explore the area on foot or on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Douglas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rugby: Located 50 miles north of Douglas, Rugby is known as the “Geographical Center of North America” and is home to a variety of interesting attractions, including the Prairie Village Museum.
  • Bismarck: The capital city of North Dakota has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained, including the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum and the Dakota Zoo.

Conclusion

Douglas, North Dakota, is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to culture buffs and foodies. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or exploring local history, Douglas has it all. Be sure to put this charming town on your travel bucket list.