Riding Mountain National Park

During the Depression of the 1930s, the Depression Relief Program created jobs for the unemployed, 1,200 of whom were put to work constructing buildings for the park 1934-35. As is the case with much of the architecture found in the country's national parks, the style widely used was a rustic design that incorporated local materials. Perhaps the most eye-catching of their projects here is the East Gate Complex on Hwy. 19, which includes a registration building, two staff buildings and an overhead entrance sign. (Northern and southern complexes had been built but no longer exist.)

Another major international event the following decade further influenced the site's development, when World War II changed the site's focus from recreation to a source of attaining fuelwood. During the war the park was used as a minimum security POW camp, housing German prisoners from North Africa to cut cordwood. When the prisoners were released in late 1945, the function of the park turned once again to recreation.

General Information

Note: Except for in Wasagaming, water must be boiled for all uses. Swimming areas are unsupervised; lifeguards are not available. Due to the presence of a parasite in most of the bodies of water in the park, developing swimmer's itch is a concern; take proper precautions. Camping permits and fishing licenses are required.

Several forms of recreation can be pursued nearby. Guides and outfitters offer horseback riding and wagon excursions along with other wilderness activities.

ADMISSION

PETS

ADDRESS

Attractions