How do I access Leland Dam?

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

What activities are available at Leland Dam?

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

What amenities are at Leland Dam?

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

When is the best time to visit Leland Dam?

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

What are the water conditions at Leland Dam?

Water conditions at Leland Dam include calm, sheltered.

Is Leland Dam good for beginners?

Yes, Leland 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 stunning sunset over the body of water that carries the name of Devils Lake, North Dakota

Photo by Carol Highsmith's America on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Leland Dam

Cartwright, ND · Boat Ramp · Public

Leland Dam is a public boat ramp on Leland Dam near Cartwright, 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Launch into Leland Dam near Cartwright, North Dakota. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Leland Dam sits on Leland 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.

Leland Dam sits about 25 min from Cartwright, making it an accessible destination for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Water levels can fluctuate significantly — check current levels before your trip.
•The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.
•Bring extra sunscreen — reservoirs offer little shade on the water.
•Watch for submerged stumps and debris, especially at lower water levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Leland Dam?: Leland Dam is a public boat ramp in North Dakota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Leland Dam?: Leland Dam supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Leland Dam?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Leland Dam?: The best time to paddle at Leland Dam is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Leland Dam?: Water conditions at Leland Dam include calm, sheltered.
Is Leland Dam good for beginners?: Yes, Leland 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: 47.5594, -103.7988