Watford City ND

Watford City – Nestled in the heart of western North Dakota, Watford City blends small-town warmth with the rugged beauty of the Badlands. Known for its strong community spirit and booming energy industry, this fast-growing town offers a surprising mix of adventure, opportunity, and tranquility. Whether you're trekking through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, enjoying local events at the Rough Rider Center, or soaking up a breathtaking sunset over the prairie, Watford City welcomes you like family and invites you to stay a while.

• Population: ~7,500
• Weather: Cold winters (5-30°F), warm summers (50-85°F); low humidity and lots of sunshine.
• Places To Visit: Little Missouri State Park, Watford City Heritage Park, Long X Visitor Center, Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Unit).
• Top Activities: Hiking and horseback riding, scenic drives, wildlife photography, fishing at nearby lakes, attending community festivals and rodeos.
• Famous Food: Classic Midwestern fare like steak and potatoes, local diners featuring bison burgers, homestyle breakfasts, and hearty casseroles.

Watford City, North Dakota, has seen rapid growth over the past few years, thanks in large part to the oil and gas boom in the Bakken formation. This small but thriving city offers a variety of employment opportunities across several industries. Below are the top jobs making the biggest impact in the local economy.

Watford City offers strong wages and steady work, especially for professionals in energy and essential services. As the city continues to expand, these career paths remain key to its economic success and community development.

Watford City, ND might be small, but it has a lot to offer when it comes to places where students can chill, relax, and have fun. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, cozy coffee shops, or just hanging out with friends, Watford City has a low-key charm that's perfect for taking a break from your studies.

Watford City Parks – From the wide-open spaces at Tourist Park to the beautiful trails at Kent Pelton Nature Park, these green spots are perfect for a lazy hangout, a jog, or even a spontaneous soccer match with your friends. The nature scene is stunning, and the fresh air does wonders.

Long X Visitor Center & Museum – Okay, a museum might not sound like the first pick for fun, but this local gem is actually a cool place to learn about the region’s history and culture. Plus, it’s a quiet, relaxing spot to recharge and even get inspired for your next school project.

Wild West Water Park – When summer hits, this is the place to be. Waterslides, lazy rivers, and plenty of space to sunbathe make it the go-to hangout for those long, hot days. Perfect for cooling off and making memories without leaving the city.

Little Missouri Grille – A popular hangout for both locals and students, the laid-back vibe and friendly staff make this diner a cozy stop. Grab a burger, chat with friends, and enjoy the small-town hospitality.

Stonehome Brewing Company (21+) – For college students who are old enough, this spot combines a chill vibe with live music, trivia nights, and locally brewed beers. It’s a great place to unwind responsibly and connect with the community.

Six Shooters Showhall – Love live music or a fun event night? This venue often hosts concerts and community events, making it a fun way to break out of your routine and enjoy local entertainment.

Rails to Trails Path – Need some space to think or take your mind off a rough day? This scenic trail is perfect for a peaceful walk, meditation, or even a podcast-fueled bike ride through nature. Bring a friend or go solo—it’s always a good vibe.

Whether you're looking to blow off some steam, spark your creativity, or just spend a quiet evening under the open sky, Watford City makes it easy for students to find their own kind of fun. Sometimes, it's the slower pace that helps you reconnect and relax the most.

Watford City, ND is a growing hub in western North Dakota, attracting students and professionals from across the region. While the city itself is smaller and doesn’t host large, traditional universities, it serves as a gateway to top public and private colleges within the region. Here’s a look at the leading options for higher education accessible to Watford City residents.

Top Public Colleges & Universities near Watford City, ND

Williston State College – Located about 47 miles north in Williston, this community college offers associate degrees and certificate programs in health, business, technology, and trades. Williston State has a welcoming campus and flexible online courses, making it a top choice for Watford City students.

Bismarck State College – Just under two hours away, Bismarck State College offers robust two-year and select four-year programs in energy, education, and technical fields. The school is renowned for its energy programs relevant to North Dakota’s booming oil industry.

Minot State University – Around 120 miles from Watford City, Minot State provides a broad range of bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Known for its education, nursing, and business programs, Minot State offers flexibility for traditional and non-traditional students alike.

North Dakota State University (NDSU) – Located in Fargo, NDSU is a leading research university with strong programs in engineering, agriculture, business, and health sciences. NDSU welcomes transfer students and supports distance education options, making it accessible for western North Dakota residents.

University of North Dakota (UND) – Based in Grand Forks, UND is North Dakota’s flagship public university. It’s celebrated for robust health sciences (including a highly regarded medical school), aviation, engineering, and law programs. Online options make UND popular with distance learners from Watford City and beyond.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Watford City, ND

University of Mary – Located in Bismarck, this private Catholic university offers undergraduate, graduate, and online programs in healthcare, education, business, and more. The University of Mary is known for its personal attention and values-based education.

University of Jamestown – About 160 miles southeast, the University of Jamestown is a private liberal arts college renowned for strong nursing, science, and business programs. Its small classes and supportive campus environment make it a solid pick for personal growth and academic success.

Trinity Bible College and Graduate School – Located in Ellendale, Trinity offers faith-based education in theology, ministry, education, and business. With a focus on leadership and service, it attracts students interested in Christian ministries and counseling.

Medcenter One College of Nursing (now part of NDSU) – While now integrated with North Dakota State University, Medcenter One’s legacy in nursing remains strong. Students from Watford City can pursue NDSU’s top nursing programs, gaining access to excellent clinical training and faculty expertise.

Concordia College – Situated in Moorhead, MN (near Fargo), Concordia is a private liberal arts school just over 250 miles from Watford City. It’s recognized for its rigorous programs in music, business, science, and education, with a close-knit, supportive community.

Whether you’re seeking practical, career-focused training or a classic liberal arts experience, the region around Watford City offers a variety of high-quality college options. Each of these institutions is committed to helping students succeed through accessible programs, supportive faculty, and vibrant campus life.

Watford City, North Dakota, might be a small community, but it takes education seriously. Families living here can find high schools that prioritize strong academics, character development, and real-world readiness. Whether you're looking at public schools or exploring private options, there are excellent choices to help students grow and succeed.

Here’s a look at the top public and private high schools in and around Watford City, ND.

Top Public High Schools in Watford City

• Watford City High School – As the main public high school in the city, Watford City High offers a well-rounded education with dedicated teachers and a range of extracurricular programs. It supports students in preparing for both college and the workforce through its career and technical education tracks.
• Alexander Public School – Located just a short drive from Watford City, this small K-12 school emphasizes individualized attention and community values. The high school section offers core academic courses and opportunities for dual credit college classes.
• Killdeer High School – Found in neighboring Killdeer, this school is known for its strong academic foundation and active student body. Sports, music, and STEM clubs are popular, helping students build confidence and skills.
• Trenton High School – Trenton is another nearby school that welcomes students from surrounding areas. It provides a supportive learning environment, including smaller class sizes and generous teacher support, promoting student success across all subjects.
• New Town High School – This public school serves students from the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation and neighboring areas. It focuses on academic improvement while incorporating cultural education and student-led initiatives.

Top Private High Schools Near Watford City

• Trinity Christian School, Williston – About 45 minutes from Watford City, Trinity Christian is a PreK-12 private school that delivers a faith-based education. Its high school focuses on character building, college prep, and spiritual growth in a nurturing environment.
• Cornerstone Christian School, Williston – Also located in nearby Williston, Cornerstone offers a strong Christ-centered curriculum and a supportive faith community. The high school program emphasizes academic excellence and personal integrity.
• Home On The Range School, Sentinel Butte – This school serves students who need a more structured and therapeutic setting. It's ideal for youth who benefit from personalized support and life skills training, alongside their academic journey.
• Williston Trinity Christian School – Separate from the main Trinity Christian School, this school continues to build a reputation for academic rigor and high moral standards. Students benefit from small class sizes, and teachers often serve as mentors.
• The Dakota Adventist Academy (Bismarck) – While not in Watford City, Dakota Adventist is a well-regarded Christian boarding school within driving distance. It offers high schoolers a faith-based education with strong academics and extracurricular opportunities.

Choosing the right high school is an important decision. In and near Watford City, families can find schools that blend academic achievement with a sense of community and purpose. Whether it’s public or private, each option has something unique to offer.

Watford City, North Dakota, might be best known for its close connection to the oil industry and its breathtaking natural scenery—but when it comes to professional sports teams, this small but growing city isn't home to teams you’d find in major pro sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or MLS. However, that doesn’t mean the community doesn’t love sports!

While you won’t find a stadium packed with tens of thousands of fans cheering for a local pro team, Watford City's sports culture thrives at the grassroots level with a strong local passion for high school athletics, recreational leagues, and support for North Dakota’s bigger city teams. Residents often follow and cheer for major sports teams throughout the state or region.

Here’s a look at the wider world of professional sports that many Watford City locals follow and enjoy:

Football – North Dakota State Bison (NCAA Football)

• North Dakota State University (NDSU) Bison – While not a professional team, the Bison football program is hugely popular across the state. Based in Fargo, NDSU has won an impressive 9 FCS national championships since 2011, making it one of the most successful collegiate football programs in the country. Many sports fans in Watford City proudly follow the Bison and even make the trip east to attend games.

Ice Hockey – North Dakota Fighting Hawks (NCAA Hockey)

• University of North Dakota (UND) Fighting Hawks – Hockey is a big deal in North Dakota, and UND’s program is among the most elite in college hockey. With 8 NCAA national championships, the team has a devoted following throughout the state. Fans from Watford City often support the Fighting Hawks and enjoy the highly competitive action, especially during playoff season.

Nearby Professional Teams Watford City Residents Love

• Minnesota Vikings (NFL) – Just one state over, Minnesota's teams are often embraced by North Dakotans. The Vikings, though yet to win a Super Bowl, have a passionate regional fan base that includes many in Watford City.
• Minnesota Twins (MLB) – The Twins have captured two World Series titles (1987 and 1991) and continue to enjoy broad support across the Upper Midwest.
• Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA) – With rising stars and a loyal fan base, the Timberwolves are followed closely by basketball fans in the Watford City area.
• Minnesota Wild (NHL) – Hockey fans in North Dakota often support the Wild, the closest NHL team geographically. Their intense and energetic games are a favorite for sports enthusiasts in the region.

While Watford City doesn’t have its own professional sports teams, the town’s love for sports lives strong through regional pride, community events, and travel-worthy dedication to college and professional teams across North Dakota and neighboring states. For fans here, sports are about more than championships—they're about community, spirit, and tradition.

Watford City, North Dakota, may be small in size, but it's big on charm, adventure, and rich history. Nestled in the heart of the Bakken oil fields and surrounded by scenic landscapes, this city has a lot to offer both visitors and locals. Here are 10 fun facts about Watford City that might surprise you!

1. Gateway to the Badlands – Watford City is the perfect starting point to explore the stunning North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, just a short drive south. Expect bison, breathtaking views, and peaceful hiking trails.
2. Oil Boom Town – Though originally a quiet farming town, Watford City experienced massive growth during the Bakken shale oil boom in the early 2010s, nearly tripling its population in just a few years.
3. Movie-Worthy Scenery – With its rugged landscapes, Watford City has scenery that feels straight out of a western movie. It’s even been used as a backdrop in documentaries and indie films.
4. Rodeo Spirit – Each year, the city hosts the Missouri River Rodeo Circuit Finals, which brings in top rodeo athletes and a whole lot of cowboy flair.
5. Ice Age Legacy – Long ago, glaciers shaped this part of North Dakota, and you can still see the effects in the rolling hills, rich soil, and striking buttes around town.
6. A Trail to Remember – The Maah Daah Hey Trail, one of the most celebrated long-distance trails in the U.S., passes near Watford City and is a dream for mountain bikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Heritage Park Downtown – Visit Watford City’s McKenzie County Heritage Park to step back in time and explore pioneer cabins, a country schoolhouse, and vintage farm equipment from the early settlers.
8. Sunrises Like No Other – The big open skies surrounding Watford City offer some of the most stunning sunrises and sunsets you’ll ever see, painting the prairie in golds, blues, and fiery reds.
9. Friendly Faces – Despite its recent growth, Watford City keeps its small-town vibe. Locals are known for their warm hospitality, and you’re more likely than not to be greeted with a smile and a wave.
10. A Piece of History – Watford City was established in 1914 and named after settlers from Watford, Ontario. It's been growing and evolving ever since—but still stays true to its roots.