By: Visit Williston on Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Williams County may be best known for its rolling plains and rugged badlands, but when summer rolls around, the locals know exactly where to cool off.
So, stock your cooler, slather on the SPF, and put your Crocs in sport mode — we’re heading to the best beaches near Williston where you can soak up the sun and splash in the water.
What to pack: Swimsuit, sunscreen, snacks, and a beach towel. Bonus points for a Bluetooth speaker and a random playlist titled “Sunshine & Shenanigans.”
Trenton Lake Recreation Area
About 20 minutes southwest of Williston off Hwy 1804
Trenton Lake is perfect for a low-key afternoon with the fam — and it’s got more than just water. There’s a playground for littles, a basketball court (perfect for proving who’s better at basketball and bait casting), and plenty of trees offering natural shade. The covered picnic areas make it easy to post up for the day. It’s not flashy, and that’s exactly its charm.
Lewis and Clark State Park
About 25 minutes east of Williston off Hwy 1804
Nestled on the north shore of Lake Sakakawea, Lewis and Clark State Park has a swimming beach, campground, hiking trails, and a boat ramp. Want to level up your lake day?
Kota Ray Dam
About 35 minutes northeast of Williston (10 miles south of Ray) via Hwy 1804 and CR 6
While you might plan to go for a quick dip, don’t be surprised if your trip to Kota Ray turns into an all-day affair. The beach and campground have had a recent glow-up, and the calm water perfect is for swimming at the beach or fishing off the pier. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout every year, but you’ll also reel in bass, bluegill, and walleye.
Fishing not for you? Check out the Pedal Park, complete with small ramps, jumps, and obstacles perfect for burning off some energy. It’s not the biggest body of water in the county, but it’s got all the ingredients for a five-star day at the lake.
Little Egypt County Park
About 35 minutes east of Williston off Hwy 1804
It may sound like the next indie Netflix series, but Little Egypt is a fan favorite – and for good reason. This hidden gem boasts soft sand that’s easy on bare feet and perfect for laying out a towel or building a sandcastle or seven. The beach gently slopes into the water, making it perfect for wading and floating the day away.
Little Egypt is also a great spot to launch a kayak or stand-up paddle board. It’s the kind of place you can get those "I’m totally not trying to pose for this" vacation snaps.
Final Splash
Sure, we may not have ocean waves or palm trees, but here in Williams County, we do summer our way – with long summer days, cool fresh water, and sunsets that take their sweet time.
Want the scoop on other cool spots, local events, and restaurants to check out around Williams County? Find us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. We love when you tag us in your adventures, and use #VisitWilliston and #WanderWilliamsCounty!