Lewis and Clark State Park, a cherished outdoor sanctuary in northwest North Dakota, is marking its 50th anniversary with a year-long celebration. Thanks to the generosity of the local community, this milestone is set to be commemorated with a variety of unique and memorable events designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Community Contributions: The Heart of the Celebration

The anniversary celebrations have been made possible through the generous monetary contributions from Williams County and the City of Williston’s Convention and Visitors Bureau. These funds are crucial in organizing the diverse events planned throughout the year. In addition, local businesses have shown remarkable support by donating money, supplies, and food to ensure the success of these events. Employees from these businesses have also volunteered their time, further highlighting the community’s commitment to the park.

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A Year of Exciting Events

To honor its golden anniversary, Lewis and Clark State Park has organized a series of monthly events. These include themed hikes, educational programs, fishing tournaments, and a dinosaur dig. These activities offer various ways for visitors to connect with the park, create lasting memories, and appreciate its significance as a recreational and educational resource.

The 50th celebration will be held on June 8th, and it promises to be a big day for everyone!

8-11 am: Dog Jog located at the Friends Shelter

  • Registration: 8:00 am - 8:30 am
  • Awards at Elk Point Shelter 12:30 pm

10 am-Noon: Dino Dig located at the Swim Area

10 am-Noon: Kids Fishing Derby located at Trader’s Bay Visitor Center

  • Registration: 10:00 am - 10:30 am
  • Awards at Elk Point Shelter, 12:30 pm

Noon: Lunch donated by Cloverdale, located at Elk Point Shelter

12:30-1 pm: Speeches/Awards at Elk Point Shelter

1-4 pm: Pontoon Rides located at Trader’s Bay Visitor Center

Noon–6 pm: Food Trucks and Jump ‘N’ Fun inflatables at Elk Point Shelter

1-3 pm: Geocaching Workshop located at Elk Point Shelter (Intro class held every half hour)

2-6 pm: Music and Beer Garden: 4-Mile Bar located at Elk Point Shelter, MoonCats and Josie & the Whalers

Visitors are encouraged to explore the park’s new boardwalk along the Coteau Trail, which provides an up-close look at wetland animals. The park also offers convenient on-site rental equipment, including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, to enhance the outdoor experience.

Ongoing Support and Volunteer Opportunities

The park continues to accept donations to further enhance the 50th-anniversary celebrations. Enthusiastic volunteers are also sought to assist with various tasks during the events, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Interested individuals can contact the park at lcsp@nd.gov to discuss these opportunities.

A Community Effort

Numerous local organizations are supporting the celebration, which reflects the community's long-standing ties to the park. Apart from Williams County and Williston’s CVB, contributions have been received from:

  • Williston Community Builders
  • Williston API
  • Santanen Oilfield Services
  • Williston STAR Fund
  • Mountrail-Williams Electric Cooperative
  • Basin Electric
  • Epping Rural Fire Department
  • ND Fishing Tournaments LLC
  • Cashwise Foods
  • OK Distributing
  • Cloverdale
  • Connect Us Therapy
  • Milestone Health Partners
  • Coca-Cola Williston

Stay Informed and Get Involved

For more information about the 50th-anniversary events and to stay updated, visitors can follow Lewis and Clark State Park on Facebook or download a printable schedule of events from their official website.

Join in celebrating half a century of outdoor fun, education, and family adventures at Lewis and Clark State Park. Your support and participation will help make this a memorable year for everyone involved.

Don't miss this big day on June 8th at Lewis & Clark State Park!

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