Fort Ransom State Park

The Fort Ransom State Park is a state park in Ransom County in the U.S. state of North Dakota. The 359 -acre park is located north of the town Fort Ransom in the densely wooded valley of the Sheyenne River.

History

The park was named after the 1867 built Fort of the U.S. Army, whose remains now lie about five kilometers south of the park as a State Historic Site. Early as 1872, the fort was abandoned. In the aftermath settled mainly immigrants from Scandinavia in the region. The state park was opened in July 1979.

Flora and Fauna

The park area preserves three different ecosystems: the deciduous forests along the Sheyenne River, a tall grass prairie and a mixed grass prairie. Grow in the park American elm, red ash, linden and Bur Oaks, along with numerous shrubs and prairie grasses.

The park white-tailed deer, raccoons, beavers, coyotes and foxes occur. Numerous bird species can be observed in the park, including helmet woodpeckers, Eastern Bluebird, Nuthatch, Scarlet Tanager and prairie buzzards, as well as numerous species of butterflies. In the Sheyenne River glass eyes perch, catfish, rock bass, Phoxinus and numerous mussel species occur.

Tourist Facilities

The park is open year round and is a Natural and Scenic Area and is considered an official part of the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway. A four kilometer long section of the North Country National Scenic Trail passes through the park. The park has a campground with 30 parking spaces. In the park canoes and kayaks can be hired to do water sports on the river. The park is crossed eight kilometers of bridle paths for horse meadows groups are available. In winter, the park area with snowmobiles and km to over 10 trails can be traveled by cross-country skis.

Two farm houses reminiscent of the pioneer history of the area. The Bjone House, built in 1879 by the Scandinavian immigrants Nils Olson, was in possession of his descendants until 1976 and now serves as a visitor center, where there is also an exhibition about the Scandinavian traditions of the region. Another farm house, built in 1884, is reminiscent of the early days, and serves as the backdrop for the annual in July and in September Sodbuster Days. At the Sodbuster Days demonstrating members of the Fort Ransom Sodbusters Association Agriculture and rural life of the pioneer days of the late 19th century.