Discover Nelson: Stump Lake, Culture and Nature

Nelson and the wider area of Nelson County offer a journey through nature, regional history, and unusual cultural attractions. Around Stump Lake, a wildlife refuge, historic buildings, art projects, and paths for leisurely activities come together. This allows you to plan your trip entirely around your interests: with nature observation, a walk through a historic village, a self-guided audio tour, or a visit to cultural institutions.

Stump Lake Between Wildlife Refuge and Chain of Lakes

The Stump Lake National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1905 by President Theodore Roosevelt. It was the first national wildlife refuge established in North Dakota and was created as a protected area and breeding ground for native birds. For trip planning, it is important to distinguish between the individual areas of the refuge: The islands of the Stump Lake National Wildlife Refuge are flooded due to high water levels and are not accessible to the public.

In the wider regional area of Nelson County, Stump Lake is part of the Devils Lake chain of lakes. Fishing is possible at Stump Lake. Stump Lake Park also has walking paths, a miniature golf course, and a café.

History to Hear and See

The Nelson County Talking Trails are a self-guided tour designed by experts, featuring 20 audio recordings. They tell the history, culture, and heritage of communities throughout Nelson County. This makes the format particularly interesting for travelers who want to do more than simply look at a place and instead explore its background at their own pace.

A prominent historic site is the A.M. Tofthagen Library-Museum. In 1926, Amun Tofthagen donated $5,000 for the construction of the building. The museum also houses a peace pipe that Mr. Tofthagen smoked with Sitting Bull in 1889. Stump Lake Village includes two log cabins relocated from the Nelson County area, a church, a school, and a railroad depot. Paved walking paths and a pavilion are also part of the village.

Art, Crafts, and Paths for Different Days of Travel

The Nelson County Arts Council organizes the annual Stump Lake Fine Arts Youth Camp for students in grades 3 through 12. The Arts Council also organizes one of the largest juried art exhibitions and art sales in North Dakota. These offerings give the destination a cultural dimension that extends beyond historic buildings.

Another special feature is the Nelson County Barn Quilt Trail. Painted quilt patterns are displayed on agricultural buildings, businesses, garages, and houses. The trail’s mission was to create North Dakota’s first “quilt trail.” The Old Settlers’ Pavilion, also known as Stump Lake Pavilion, is a large recreational gathering building dating from the early 1920s.

When choosing a vacation rental in Nelson, you can base your decision on the mix of excursions you want. If nature and activity are the priorities, the walking paths in Stump Lake Park and Stump Lake Village fit your plans. Those more interested in history, art, and local traditions can include the Talking Trails, the Library-Museum, the historic village, and the Barn Quilt Trail in their itinerary. Lakota can also be included in your search as another nearby place.

Other destinations you may consider for regional orientation include Dunn County, Mchenry County, Mountrail County, Stark County, Grand Forks, Ward and Mercer.

For the broader travel overview: North Dakota.