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Devil's Lake, North Dakota, USA

Also known as: Devils Lake

As the largest natural freshwater lake in North Dakota, Devil's Lake is one of the state's most popular recreation destinations. Offering every water sport you could want, in addition to great hiking and biking opportunities around its scenic shores, this approximately 122,000 acre reservoir offers four season fun.

There's nothing evil about Devils Lake, though its name might make you think otherwise. The lake's name comes from the original Native American word "Miniwaukan." Early explorers to the area learned the name from area natives, but translated it incorrectly as "Bad Spirit" - its real meaning is "Spirit Water" or "Enchanted Waters." Adding to the mistranslation, Devil's Lake is steeped in local lore. A favorite Sioux legend details the region's very own lake monster, which is said to have wiped out an entire army and killed all of the lake's fish. Combining the lake's poorly-translated name and its mythical past, the Devils Lake moniker stuck.

Devil's Lake's 375+ miles of shoreline are ideal for boaters, providing days of exploration. On a warm summer day, you'll find the lake's surface dotted with speed boats, pontoon boats, and even the occasional sailboat. For those who prefer a slower pace, canoes and kayaks are common along the shore and in quiet coves. And when the days are hot and the sky is blue, water skiers and wakeboarders are also a common sight, as the lake's open acres are ideal for high-speed joyrides and adrenaline-pumping action.

Of course, casual boaters aren't the only ones out on the lake's waters. As the "Perch Capital of the World", Devil's Lake is a favorite for anglers hoping to catch the next record-breaker. Many perch exceed two pounds, and are joined by excellent catches of northern pike, walleye, and white bass. Take out your own boat, or hire one of the lake's several proficient and knowledgeable guides. Both summer time and ice fishing are popular here, so no matter your schedule or your angling preferences, Devil's Lake will show you a great time.

Coming to rural Devil's Lake will make anyone feel closer to nature, and some visitors like to extend their stay. 90% of the lake's shoreline is undeveloped, allowing you a quiet, comfortable vacation with only the trees, stars, and lapping lake waters as your camping neighbors. There are several official camping spots along the lake, offering everything from primitive camping to campsites with hot water and RV-hookups. Whatever your pleasure, Devils Lake will surely deliver.

For nature lovers, Grahams Island State Park is a great starting point for many lake activities. With over 1,142 explorable acres, the park is home to a boat launch, 107 campsites, miles of hiking trails, overnight cabins, and incredible nature watching. To get a lay of the land, set out onto Grahams Island State Park's hiking trails, and visually witness the area's history.

Known as North Dakota's prairie pothole region, Devil's Lake shows visible marks of the retreating glaciers more than 10,000 years ago. As you walk, you'll see depressions in the earth -- colloquially referred to as potholes -- that collect water. As you walk, be sure to carry the park's official plant checklist, and keep your eyes open for the area's many trees, bushes, and flowers.

If you can drag yourself away from the lake, the Devil's Lake area offers much in the way of history, museums, and culture. Visit the old Sheriff's House in downtown Devil's Lake, and see what a North Dakota home looked like at the turn of the century. Head over to the Fort Totten State Historic Site to see where pioneers first settled, investigate an old schools, and learn about the area's history. Or simply take a walking tour of Devil's Lake historic downtown, feasting your eyes on 14 pieces of history, as determined by the National Register of Historic Places.

Devils Lake is a place of vast natural beauty and rich historical offerings. The lake area offers a lot of something for everyone, and when the time comes to leave, you'll find that your Devil's Lake to-do list is nowhere near complete.

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