Fort Ransom State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort Ransom State Park |
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Sunne Farm at Fort Ransom State Park
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| Location | Ransom County, North Dakota, United States |
| Nearest city | Fort Ransom, North Dakota |
| Area | 933.78 acres (377.89 ha) |
| Elevation | 1,135 ft (346 m) |
| Established | 1976 |
| Administered by | North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department |
| Designation | North Dakota state park |
Fort Ransom State Park is a cool place to visit in North Dakota. It's a public park located in the beautiful Sheyenne River Valley, just a couple of miles north of the town of Fort Ransom, North Dakota. This park is special because it helps us learn about history and enjoy nature.
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Welcome to Fort Ransom State Park!
Fort Ransom State Park is a fun outdoor area where you can explore and learn. It's found in Ransom County, North Dakota, right in the middle of the scenic Sheyenne River Valley. The park was created in 1976 to protect important historical sites and offer outdoor activities.
What Makes This Park Special?
This state park is unique because it keeps two old farms safe. These farms belonged to "homesteaders," who were early settlers who built homes and worked the land. The farms are called the Bjone House and the Andrew Sunne farm. They show us what life was like long ago.
The park is also a key spot along the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway. A "scenic byway" is a special road that takes you through beautiful landscapes and past interesting places. It's a great way to see the area's natural beauty and history.
Exploring the Past: Homesteaders and Ancient People
At the park's visitor center, you can discover more about the people who lived here in the past. There are exhibits about "sodbusters," which was another name for the 19th-century homesteaders. They built their homes from sod (grass and soil) because wood was scarce.
You can also learn about the ancient people known as the Mound Builders. These groups lived in this area many thousands of years ago. They left behind large earth mounds, which are important clues about their culture and way of life.
Fun Things to Do at the Park
Fort Ransom State Park offers lots of activities for everyone!
- Hiking and Biking: There are over 20 miles (about 32 kilometers) of trails. You can hike, bike, or even ride horses on these paths.
- Winter Sports: When it snows, the trails are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
- Camping: The park has campsites if you want to stay overnight under the stars.
- Water Fun: You can rent canoes and kayaks to paddle on the Sheyenne River.
- Picnics and Gatherings: There are places to have picnics, and a building called the Sodbuster Building is available for group events.
Whether you love history, outdoor adventures, or just want to relax in nature, Fort Ransom State Park has something for you!
