Garrison Dam & Powerhouse Tour — Riverdale, North Dakota

Discover the Garrison Dam & Powerhouse Tour in North Dakota

Located in Riverdale, North Dakota, along the Missouri River, the Garrison Dam & Powerhouse Tour offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of the largest earthen dams in the United States. This guided engineering tour explains how the dam controls river flow, prevents flooding, and generates hydroelectric power for the region.

Visitors learn how the massive structure operates, explore the hydroelectric powerhouse, and discover how Lake Sakakawea was created by the construction of the dam.

Why it’s special: Garrison Dam forms Lake Sakakawea, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States and a critical part of the Missouri River flood-control system.

History & Story of Garrison Dam

Construction of Garrison Dam began in the late 1940s as part of the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program, a major federal project designed to control flooding, generate electricity, and support irrigation throughout the Missouri River basin.

Completed in 1953, the dam created Lake Sakakawea and became a vital piece of infrastructure for flood control and hydroelectric power generation across the region.

What You’ll See & Do on the Garrison Dam & Powerhouse Tour

• Learn how the Missouri River is controlled through the dam system
• Explore the hydroelectric powerhouse where electricity is generated
• Discover how turbines convert water flow into electricity
• See spillways, control gates, and dam engineering systems
• Learn about the creation of Lake Sakakawea
• View exhibits explaining regional water management and flood control

Hands-On Elements: Educational presentations explaining dam engineering and hydroelectric power generation.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted in most public areas.

Souvenirs & Extras: Educational brochures and interpretive displays available at the visitor center.

Pricing of the Garrison Dam & Powerhouse Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Tours are typically provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and may require advance reservations.

Visiting information for Garrison Dam & Powerhouse Tour

Duration: Approximately 45–60 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome

Accessibility: Visitor center and viewing areas accessible

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Saturday–Sunday Closed

Advance reservations may be required for guided tours.

Nearby attractions to Garrison Dam & Powerhouse Tour

• Lake Sakakawea State Park
• Fort Stevenson State Park
• Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery

FAQs About Visiting the Garrison Dam & Powerhouse Tour

How large is Garrison Dam?
Garrison Dam is one of the largest earthen dams in the United States.

What river does the dam control?
The dam controls water flow along the Missouri River.

What is Lake Sakakawea?
Lake Sakakawea is the large reservoir created when Garrison Dam was constructed.

Is electricity generated at the dam?
Yes. The dam’s hydroelectric turbines generate electricity for the regional power grid.

Do visitors need reservations for the tour?
Some guided tours may require advance reservations through the visitor center.