The small town of Devils Lake in the north east of North Dakota takes its appellation from the lake of the same name, which is the second largest body of water in North Dakota after the man-made Lake Sakakawea, making it the largest natural lake in the state. It sits at a notable elevation of 1,449 feet and its surface covers an area of 216 square miles.
Owing to its huge surface area, Devils Lake has long been a popular area for water sports and fishing in its deep waters. The most favored fish by anglers is the perch, and residents of the area have dubbed Devils Lake as the perch capital of the world. Visitors will have no trouble finding a boat-launch to drop their crafts in, and many recreational facilities can be found around the lake’s periphery.
The lake’s story is not all fun and games however, for the last several years its water level has been rising steadily, flooding much agricultural land around it, necessitating outlet and water retention projects. Authorities have clashed with those in Canada, since the flooding of the lake has the potential to adversely affect the Canadian side.
Highlights
Sullys Hill National Game Preserve: a protected area for local wildlife on the South side of the lake, good for bird-watching.
Old Post Office Museum: see historical artifacts from the region including the first fire engine used in the town.
Towner Golf Club: get the clubs out and rent a cart to shuttle between greens at this 9-hole course with attached country club.