Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area in northeastern North Dakota lies along the Pembina River west of Walhalla and stands out for both recreation and exceptional biodiversity. Part of the state park system since opening on June 30, 2012, it entered a new stage of development after approval in May 2023 to become North Dakota’s 14th state park, followed by groundbreaking on May 31, 2024. The area supports kayaking and a multi-use trail network for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and off-road vehicles. Ecologically, the gorge contains the state’s greatest concentrations of rare species, including 21 rare animal species, 30 rare plant species, and more than 480 vascular plant species.