North Dakota’s lakes, rivers, and dams are always a well loved feature of the state. With their year-round recreational opportunities and beautiful settings, you really don’t have to wonder why. Some of these bodies of water in particular are exceptionally gorgeous with the bluest of water and prettiest of surroundings. This particular lake may be man made by a dam, but it is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the scenery year round.

The Larimore Dam near the small town of Larimore, North Dakota is a beautiful place of nature and serenity.

Subik Pokharel/Google

There is a recreation area surrounding the 72-acre lake with a swimming beach, over 140 campsites, hiking trails, picnic shelters, playgrounds, and just about everything else you need for a picture perfect day around this sapphire blue lake.

Sanjaya Pandey/Google

Even in the fall when the trees start changing colors and become a blaze of red, gold, and orange, Larimore Dam keeps its vibrancy and becomes even more colorful.

Sanjaya Pandey/Google

You can explore the trails around the lake and see the water peaking through the fall foliage. It’s breathtaking to behold and the peacefulness of the area will send you to another world.

Sanjaya Pandey/Google

An arboretum, the Maya Arboretum, is part of the park and it’s full of over 500 varieties of trees and shrubs. As you can probably imagine this turns absolutely spectacular this time of the year!

Sanjaya Pandey/Google

Pitch a tent, sit around the campfire, take in the sights and sounds of the lake, and maybe throw a few lines in the water and see what you catch. The Larimore Dam is perfect for all of that and more, and it is stunning through it all.

Khalifa Moh/Google

The Larimore Dam Recreation Area is located at 3586 18th Ave. NE, Larimore, ND 58251. You’ll find more information on it right here.

Subik Pokharel/Google

Sanjaya Pandey/Google

Khalifa Moh/Google

Are you a leaf peeper looking for more places like this? You’ll probably enjoy these spectacular fall foliage hikes in North Dakota! The season is short, so take advantage of it while you can.

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