Devils Lake ND

Devils Lake – Tucked in the heart of North Dakota, Devils Lake offers small-town charm wrapped in natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Known for its namesake lake—the largest natural body of water in North Dakota—this welcoming city is a haven for anglers, birders, and anyone who loves life close to the water's edge. With a strong community spirit, stunning prairie landscapes, and a rich history dating back to its Native American roots, Devils Lake is a peaceful yet vibrant spot waiting to be explored.

• Population: ~7,100
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; cold, snowy winters and warm, pleasant summers (10–80°F).
• Places To Visit: Grahams Island State Park, Fort Totten Historic Site, Sullys Hill National Game Preserve, Lake Region Heritage Center.
• Top Activities: World-class fishing, boating, bird watching, snowmobiling, exploring historic sites, and enjoying local festivals.
• Famous Food: Walleye dinners at local diners, hearty Midwestern comfort food, fresh pastries from charming bakeries, and traditional Native American dishes in nearby tribal communities.

Devils Lake, ND, may be a small city, but it plays a crucial role in North Dakota's economy with strengths in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. With a supportive community and growing local industries, Devils Lake offers promising employment opportunities across several sectors.

Top 5 Jobs in Devils Lake, ND

Devils Lake, ND may be a small town, but it has a charm all its own—perfect for students who need a break from the books and want to unwind, recharge, or just have a little fun. Whether you're into quiet outdoor adventures or looking for a low-key spot to hang with friends, there are plenty of great places around town to explore and relax.

Roosevelt Park – This local gem is a favorite for students who want to chill in nature. Grab a coffee, bring a blanket, and kick back under the trees or near the pond. On warmer days, it’s the perfect space for reading, picnicking, or just people-watching.

Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea – Located right in downtown Devils Lake, this cozy cafe is a great spot to grab a drink, catch up with friends, or get a little studying done away from the dorm. They have a chill vibe, comfy seating, and friendly staff that make everyone feel welcome.

Creel Bay Golf Course – Even if you're not a golfer, the beautiful open views at Creel Bay offer a great place to walk or just hang out while enjoying the scenery around Devils Lake. Plus, if you do play, it’s a fun way to unwind with friends and enjoy some sunshine.

Lake Region State College Fitness Center – For students looking to burn off stress (and maybe some late-night snacks), this facility has workout equipment, an indoor track, and sometimes pickup games at the gym. It’s a great way to stay active and socialize.

Pizza Ranch – When you want to treat yourself after a long study session, Pizza Ranch is a go-to for its all-you-can-eat buffet, casual setting, and community feel. It’s perfect for college get-togethers or just a fun place to relax and eat your weight in pizza.

Devils Lake Drive-In Theater – Yes, it’s still around—and it's awesome. During the warmer months, this retro drive-in is a unique way to spend a night with friends. Pack snacks, bring blankets, and watch the latest movies under the stars. It’s old-school cool and incredibly fun.

Spirit Lake Casino & Resort – Just a short drive from town, the casino isn't just for gaming. It features restaurants, events, and beautiful lake views. It’s a lively change of pace when you want to step outside your usual weekend hangout routine.

Downtown Devils Lake – Small but friendly, downtown has a few local shops, coffee spots, and quiet corners to explore. You’ll find art, history, and maybe even live music on certain nights. Sometimes all you need is a good walk and a new favorite place.

College life in Devils Lake might be low-key, but that’s part of the charm. With the right mix of relaxing spots and fun hangouts, it’s easy to find your favorite places to take a break, laugh with friends, and make memories along the way.

Devils Lake, ND, may be a small city, but it is a strong pillar for higher education in the Lake Region area. Students seeking quality public and private higher learning institutions will find a welcoming environment and dedicated faculty here. Whether you want to pursue technical skills, associate degrees, or broaden your liberal arts horizons, Devils Lake offers several excellent options for students aiming for academic and career success.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Devils Lake

Lake Region State College (LRSC) – As the foremost institution in Devils Lake, LRSC is a well-respected public college offering associate’s degrees and certificate programs in fields such as nursing, education, business, and information technology. The college is also known for its partnerships with area high schools and transfer programs to four-year universities.

North Dakota State University – Extension Service (Ramsey County Office) – While not a traditional college campus, NDSU’s Extension Service in Devils Lake provides valuable educational resources, workforce development, and professional training opportunities to the community, focusing on agriculture, family science, and youth programming.

University of North Dakota (UND) – Lake Region Outreach – UND occasionally offers outreach and distance learning opportunities throughout the Devils Lake area, making it more convenient for local students to begin their four-year degree close to home.

North Dakota State College of Science (Satellite Programs at LRSC) – NDSCS offers selected technical courses and certification options through collaborative programming at Lake Region State College, allowing students to access diverse vocational education options.

Minot State University – Collaborative Classes – Minot State often partners with LRSC to offer upper-division courses and bachelor’s degree completion programs for students who begin their studies at Lake Region State College.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Devils Lake

Trinity Bible College (Distance Learning) – Though its main campus is in Ellendale, Trinity Bible College serves Devils Lake students through online and occasional satellite courses focused on ministry, Christian education, and leadership studies.

University of Mary (Distance/Extension Learning) – The University of Mary, a respected private Catholic university based in Bismarck, offers distance learning and extension opportunities in Devils Lake, particularly in areas such as business, nursing, and education for adult and nontraditional students.

Park University (Online Programs) – Park University is a well-known private institution offering nationally recognized online programs that are accessible to Devils Lake residents seeking associate and bachelor’s degrees in fields like business, management, and criminal justice.

Rasmussen University (Online) – With a focus on workforce-ready education, Rasmussen University’s accredited online programs are popular with Devils Lake students looking to study healthcare, business, technology, and early childhood education.

Mayville State University (Distance Learning) – A small private university with a tradition of teacher education, Mayville State offers online bachelor’s programs that are available to Devils Lake students interested in education, human services, and business.

With dedicated faculty, supportive local partnerships, and a focus on accessibility, Devils Lake’s colleges and universities are helping shape the region’s workforce and future leaders. Both public and private options make it possible for anyone in the area to take the next step in their educational journey.

Devils Lake, ND, may be a small community, but it prides itself on offering quality education to students looking to build a strong academic foundation. Whether you're a parent planning a move or a student curious about your options, exploring the top high schools in the area can help you make an informed choice. Below are some of the best public and private high schools in Devils Lake, each committed to helping students succeed both in and beyond the classroom.

Top Public High Schools in Devils Lake, ND

• Devils Lake High School – The largest public high school in the city, Devils Lake High School offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs. Known for strong support services and a welcoming atmosphere, the school prepares students well for college, technical schools, or the workforce.
• North Dakota School for the Deaf – Serving students from around the state, this specialized public school located in Devils Lake provides personalized instruction for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, it creates a nurturing and empowering environment.
• – Though not a traditional high school, this public institute partners with Devils Lake and surrounding high schools to deliver hands-on training in fields like healthcare, mechanics, and business. It gives students valuable career and technical education options during high school.

Top Private High Schools in Devils Lake, ND

• St. Joseph Catholic School – While primarily serving elementary and middle school grades, St. Joseph's offers a continuation into high school through partnerships and faith-based education. Students benefit from a close-knit community focused on spiritual growth and academic excellence.
• Our Redeemer’s Christian School – Located just outside of Devils Lake, this private school offers a Christ-centered approach to education with the goal of building strong moral values and academic readiness in its students. Small class sizes and a family-focused environment make it a great option for individualized learning.

No matter what you're looking for—be it traditional academics, faith-based instruction, or specialized support—Devils Lake offers high schools committed to meeting students where they are and helping them grow. Each school takes pride in preparing students for the next stage of life, whether it’s college, a career, or meaningful service to the community.

Devils Lake, North Dakota, may not be home to major league sports teams like Los Angeles or New York, but that doesn’t mean the city lacks passion for athletics. While you won’t find NFL, NBA, or NHL teams based in Devils Lake, the community enjoys a vibrant sports culture rooted in local teams, regional college athletics, and strong support for national franchises. Here's a closer look at how sports come to life in and around Devils Lake, ND.

College Sports – University of North Dakota (NCAA Division I)

• UND Fighting Hawks – Based in Grand Forks, about 90 miles from Devils Lake, the University of North Dakota's sports teams are followed closely by locals. The most popular program is the men’s ice hockey team, which has earned eight NCAA national championships. UND has produced numerous NHL players and continues to be a powerhouse in college hockey.
• The university also has strong teams in basketball, football (FCS), volleyball, and more. Many Devils Lake residents make the drive to support UND, and games are often broadcasted, creating a spirited local fanbase.

Junior Hockey – Fargo Force (USHL)

• Fargo Force – Approximately two hours south of Devils Lake, this USHL (United States Hockey League) team showcases some of the top junior hockey talent in the country. Many future NHL stars compete at this level, and fans in Devils Lake often make the trip for a high-energy hockey experience. The Force won their first Clark Cup Championship in 2018.

Minor League and Independent Baseball – Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks

• Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks – Playing in the American Association of Professional Baseball, the RedHawks are a popular minor league team in North Dakota. With multiple division titles and a strong fan base, they provide an exciting alternative to MLB action. Baseball fans from Devils Lake often support the RedHawks during the summer months.

Local High School Sports – Devils Lake Firebirds

• Devils Lake High School Firebirds – High school sports play a huge role in local culture. The Firebirds compete in several sports, including football, basketball, wrestling, hockey, and track & field. Game days draw strong community support, and many athletes go on to compete at the college level in North Dakota and beyond.

Professional Teams Supported by Fans in Devils Lake

• Though there are no professional teams based in Devils Lake, many residents are die-hard fans of major franchises in neighboring states. Popular teams include the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA), Minnesota Twins (MLB), and Minnesota Wild (NHL). These teams are only a few hours’ drive away, and many locals travel to Minneapolis-St. Paul for games.

So while Devils Lake may not field its own pro sports teams, the city punches above its weight when it comes to team spirit. From college hockey glory and regional rivalries to high school heroes and a deep connection with Minnesota’s pro teams, Devils Lake remains a proud and passionate sports community.

Devils Lake, North Dakota, may be a small town, but it’s filled with charm, history, and some truly fascinating features that make it one of the region’s most unique destinations. Whether you're a local, a traveler, or just curious, here are 10 fun facts you might not know about Devils Lake:

1. Named After a “Bad Spirit” – Devils Lake gets its name from a rough translation of the Dakota phrase "mni wak’áŋ," meaning “Spirit Water.” Early explorers misinterpreted it as “Evil Spirit” or “Devil’s Lake.”
2. Biggest Natural Lake in North Dakota – It’s not just a name. Devils Lake is the largest natural body of water in the state, and it’s still growing!
3. Disappearing and Reappearing – The lake has no natural outlet, so its depth rises and falls based on rainfall. In the 1990s, it grew by over 125,000 acres, submerging homes, roads, and farmland.
4. Ice Fisher’s Paradise – In winter, Devils Lake becomes a hotspot for anglers. It’s known as the “Perch Capital of the World,” drawing visitors from across the country.
5. A Town Saved by Sandbags – Locals have a long history of working together to fight rising waters using miles of sandbags and levees to protect their homes and schools.
6. Strong Native American Roots – The nearby Spirit Lake Tribe's history and culture are deeply connected to the region and continue to shape the identity of the area today.
7. A Haven for Bird Lovers – Devils Lake sits along a major migratory bird path and is a favorite for birdwatchers hoping to spot pelicans, egrets, and rare raptors.
8. Haunted Hospital Tales – The abandoned St. Joseph’s Hospital has sparked ghost stories and urban legends for decades—it’s a favorite among paranormal enthusiasts.
9. Quirky Artwork Galore – From fish sculptures to colorful murals, downtown Devils Lake is sprinkled with creative public art made by regional artists.
10. Home of the Firebird – The high school mascot is a mythical creature called the Firebird, representing resilience and strength—the perfect symbol for a city that’s always rising!