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Welcome to the Dakota Prairie Grasslands

The Dakota Prairie Grasslands are a vast, diverse landscape encompassing four national grasslands in North and South Dakota. These grasslands offer a wide range of recreation, from hiking and biking to wildlife viewing and historical exploration. Rolling hills, prairie ecosystems, and unique geological features like badlands and buttes inspire awe and imagination. Welcome to your new home on the rangeland. 

DPG Website Directory of Webpages

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Explore the new DPG Website Directory of Webpages—a single, easy-to-use page that brings together all content from across our site. Because some webpages don’t appear in the main menu headings above, this directory makes it much easier to find what you’re looking for. Check it out, and consider bookmarking it for quick access.

Explore the Opportunities

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Discover the many ways to experience the Dakota Prairie Grasslands. Whether you enjoy camping, hiking, biking, running, horseback riding, or simply taking in the sights, this landscape offers unforgettable adventures for everyone. 

With sweeping views, abundant wildlife, and a rich history from prehistoric times to today, there’s always something new to explore—come discover your next adventure!

Camping in the Grasslands

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Welcome to the Dakota Prairie Grasslands—where wide-open spaces invite you to relax, explore, and reconnect with nature. Whether you choose a campground or a spot on the open prairie, we want your visit to be safe, comfortable, and memorable.

Explore the beauty of the grasslands at one of our 13 developed campgrounds in the Little Missouri and Sheyenne National Grasslands. Enjoy easy access to trails, scenic views, and native plants and wildlife.

Map It Out

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Where will your next Grassland adventure take you? Before you head out, visit our Visitor Maps and Guides webpage—your go‑to resource for planning a great trip. There you’ll find digital and interactive Forest Service maps, printable guides, downloadable publications, and information about printed area maps to help you plan your travel and recreation routes with confidence.

When in doubt, map it out!

Safety and Outdoor Ethics

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As a visitor to the Dakota Prairie Grasslands, you’re asked to follow guidelines that protect the environment, support everyone’s health and safety, and help ensure an enjoyable experience for all. 

Please stay aware of your surroundings, watch for natural hazards, make responsible choices, and avoid risky behavior. Ultimately, each visitor is responsible for their own safety.

Fire Information

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Before you head out to the grasslands, take a moment to visit our Fire webpage. It’s the best way to ensure a safe and well‑prepared trip.

Explore key resources, including:

• Safety & Updates: Real‑time fire conditions and alerts
• Restrictions: Current burn bans and area closures
• Management: Details on fuels management and prevention efforts
• Campfires: Clear guidance on campfire safety expectations

Start your visit informed and ready—know before you go!

National Park Passes

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Interagency Passes, or "America the Beautiful" national park passes, provide access to and discounts at over 2,000 federal recreation areas managed by six agencies, including the National Park Service, Forest Service, and others. Passes are available for purchase at each Dakota Prairie Grasslands office location or can be ordered online at the USGS Store.

Pick a Pass, then Pick a Place

Projects - Stay Informed

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You’re invited to explore the Dakota Prairie Grasslands (DPG) Projects page to learn more about the many initiatives we undertake on public lands. Discover current and upcoming projects and stay informed about NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) activities that may interest you.

To visit the Projects page or to subscribe for email updates on new and upcoming NEPA projects, simply click the “View Projects” button below:

Access Management in the Little Missouri National Grassland

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The Little Missouri National Grassland (LMNG) Access Management project is a collaborative process that emphasizes coordination with state, local, and tribal governments and includes public involvement to designate motorized use on National Forest System Roads, trails, and areas by type of motor vehicle and time of year. 

North Plains Connector Project

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The North Plains Connector project is a 400-mile-long high-voltage direct current power line proposed to start in eastern Montana and end in central North Dakota, which crosses approximately 10 miles of the Dakota Prairie Grasslands southwest of Dickinson, ND.

DPG Offices

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For a full list of our offices and their contact information, please visit our webpage. Supervisor’s Office and District Ranger offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding federal holidays).

DPG Facebook

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Shaped by sweeping prairies, colorful terrain, and thriving wildlife, the Dakota Prairie Grasslands are a true plains treasure. Join us on Facebook to discover more stories and moments from this remarkable landscape.

DPG Twitter/X

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Discover the rugged badlands, open prairies, and abundant wildlife of the Dakota Prairie Grasslands. Follow us on Twitter/X for quick highlights from around the grasslands.

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