Explore natural areas around Bismarck and Mandan for prairie scenery, birding and wildlife observation. These guides explain access and the character of each stop.
Visit animal exhibits and plan a family outing near Bismarck’s Missouri River parks.
Dakota Zoo is a distinct ticketed attraction beside Sertoma Park, with exhibits featuring animals from North America and other regions. Visitors can combine a zoo visit with nearby park time, but should plan the zoo portion around its own admission and opening schedule. The available experience changes with the season.
Animal exhibits and education
Family outing near Sertoma Park
Published seasonal visitor schedule
Good to know before you go
Getting there: Enter 602 Riverside Park Road in your maps app, then follow the zoo signs through the park to the admission entrance.
Admission is separate from the surrounding park. The published winter schedule begins in October and lists Friday–Sunday afternoons, weather permitting. Check current hours, prices and available attractions before leaving.
Checked 2026-10-09. Source. Fees, seasons and conditions change, so confirm before you head out.
Take a quiet interpretive walk through a natural wooded area near south Bismarck.
Atkinson Nature Park offers a different pace from the riverfront picnic parks. Its unpaved interpretive loop winds through a natural wooded area, with panels to help visitors learn about the landscape. The park has a parking lot and a portable restroom; winter skiing depends on suitable conditions.
1.65-mile interpretive loop
Wooded nature setting
Hiking and horse-riding route
Seasonal cross-country skiing
Good to know before you go
Getting there: Use the published Riverwood Drive address and the nature-park parking area, near the horse-arena area.
The interpretive loop is for hiking and horse riding only, and dogs are not allowed. Do not assume it is a mountain-bike or dog-walking trail. Open hours are sunrise to sunset.
Checked 2026-10-09. Source. Fees, seasons and conditions change, so confirm before you head out.
Make a day trip for Missouri River woodland, prairie trails and a quieter state-park stay.
Cross Ranch follows a largely undeveloped stretch of the Missouri River. Its trails pass through river-bottom forest and connect with the adjoining nature preserve. Camping, cabins and yurts provide overnight options, while the visitor center helps visitors choose a route suited to the season and their available time.
River-bottom woodland and prairie
More than 16 miles of trails
Camping, cabin and yurt options
Seasonal winter trail recreation
Good to know before you go
Getting there: Use the state park’s published River Road address near Center. Consult the official park map for the main visitor center and individual campground entrances.
Park admission and overnight stays have separate fees. Some routes are hiking-only or have steep stairs; water fluctuations can affect access. Bison occur on a designated preserve trail, so check the route with staff and respect posted wildlife guidance.
Checked 2026-10-09. Source. Fees, seasons and conditions change, so confirm before you head out.
