How do I access Pheasant Lake?

Pheasant Lake is a public boat ramp in North Dakota. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Pheasant Lake?

Pheasant Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Pheasant Lake?

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

When is the best time to visit Pheasant Lake?

The best time to paddle at Pheasant Lake is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Pheasant Lake?

Water conditions at Pheasant Lake include calm, sheltered.

Is Pheasant Lake good for beginners?

Yes, Pheasant Lake 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

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Pheasant Lake

Forbes, ND · Boat Ramp · Public

Pheasant Lake is a public boat ramp on Elm River - Pheasant Lake near Forbes, North Dakota. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, 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 Elm River - Pheasant Lake near Forbes, North Dakota. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Pheasant Lake is a public access point on Elm River - Pheasant Lake in North Dakota, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Forbes takes about 10 min, putting Pheasant Lake within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Pheasant Lake ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Pheasant Lake?: Pheasant Lake is a public boat ramp in North Dakota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Pheasant Lake?: Pheasant Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Pheasant Lake?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Pheasant Lake?: The best time to paddle at Pheasant Lake is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Pheasant Lake?: Water conditions at Pheasant Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is Pheasant Lake good for beginners?: Yes, Pheasant Lake 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: 46.0040, -98.6711