Patterson Lake Recreation Area
Dickinson’s lake: about 1,190 acres of water with a beach, boat ramps and campsites.
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What to expect
The reservoir behind Dickinson Dam is the city’s summer playground. You can fish for walleye and northern pike, launch a boat, swim, water-ski or camp, then play the disc golf course or ride the Crooked Crane Trail.
- Walleye, northern pike, perch, crappie, bluegill and catfish
- Swimming beach and 3 boat ramps
- Modern ($30) and primitive ($20) campsites
- Picnic shelters, playgrounds, volleyball and horseshoes
Getting to Patterson Lake Recreation Area
3753 114th Ave SW. From town, about 3 miles west and 1 mile south on old Hwy 10, or I-94 Exit 59 south.
Before you go
Vehicle entry is $4 a day or $40 for a season pass; seniors 60+ get in free with a pass. Camping runs May to Oct 1 and must be reserved. A blue-green algae advisory was posted in late August 2026, so check before swimming. ND fishing license required.
Fees, seasons and conditions can change. Confirm with the linked website before you head out.
Explore all places around Dickinson or find local food and coffee for your day out.