How do I access Fordville Dam?

Fordville Dam is a public boat ramp in North Dakota. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Fordville Dam?

Fordville Dam supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Fordville Dam?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Fordville Dam?

The best time to paddle at Fordville Dam is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Fordville Dam?

Water conditions at Fordville Dam include calm, sheltered.

Is Fordville Dam good for beginners?

Yes, Fordville Dam is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

a body of water surrounded by trees and clouds

Photo by Sunil GC on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Fordville Dam

Fordville, ND · Boat Ramp · Public

Fordville Dam is a public boat ramp on Fordville Dam near Fordville, North Dakota. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Reservoir

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Fordville Dam in North Dakota. Beginner-friendly reservoir paddling near Fordville.

Fordville Dam sits on Fordville Dam in North Dakota, giving paddlers access to miles of reservoir shoreline.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Fordville Dam sits about 5 min from Fordville, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make Fordville Dam ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Watch for submerged stumps and debris, especially at lower water levels.
•Early morning and late evening are prime times for calm water and fishing.
•Water levels can fluctuate significantly — check current levels before your trip.
•The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Fordville Dam?: Fordville Dam is a public boat ramp in North Dakota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Fordville Dam?: Fordville Dam supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Fordville Dam?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Fordville Dam?: The best time to paddle at Fordville Dam is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Fordville Dam?: Water conditions at Fordville Dam include calm, sheltered.
Is Fordville Dam good for beginners?: Yes, Fordville Dam is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 48.1822, -97.7723