If you’re anything like me, sometimes you crave a quiet escape where the pace of life slows down and the beauty of nature surrounds you. Northeastern North Dakota is home to some of the most tranquil and secluded towns I’ve ever visited.
These hidden gems offer a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle, each with its own unique charm and tight-knit community. Let me take you on a journey through ten of my favorite secluded towns in this serene part of the country, where simplicity and tranquility are a way of life.
10. Rocklake
Rocklake, with a population of around 100 residents, is a tranquil haven nestled among pristine lakes and rolling prairies. One of my favorite things to do here is fishing on the nearby Rock Lake, which offers an abundance of walleye and northern pike.
The town doesn’t bustle with industries, but agriculture plays a significant role, and you’ll often see golden fields stretching to the horizon. What makes Rocklake truly secluded is its remote location and the vast landscapes that envelop it, providing a perfect backdrop for those seeking privacy and a connection with nature.
The quiet streets and friendly waves from locals make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a simpler era.
Where is Rocklake?
Located in Towner County in northeastern North Dakota, Rocklake sits just a few miles south of the Canadian border. Its seclusion is enhanced by the expansive farmlands and the absence of major highways nearby, making it a peaceful retreat away from urban centers.
To get there, I usually take Highway 281 north from Rugby, then turn east on Highway 5, enjoying the scenic drive through the countryside. The journey itself feels like a step away from the rush of everyday life, leading you to this quiet corner of the state.
9. Starkweather
Starkweather, home to approximately 115 people, is another quaint town that I’ve come to adore for its tranquil rural atmosphere. The town offers large lot sizes, giving residents plenty of space and a strong connection to the surrounding nature.
I enjoy visiting the local parks and exploring nearby hunting grounds, which are popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Agriculture is the heartbeat of Starkweather, with family-owned farms dotting the landscape.
The town’s seclusion stems from its sparse population and the wide-open spaces that create a peaceful environment, perfect for those who appreciate the quiet rural lifestyle.
Where is Starkweather?
Nestled in Ramsey County, Starkweather is situated in northeastern North Dakota, about 30 miles north of Devils Lake. Its remote location is accentuated by the gently rolling plains and minimal traffic in the area.
I usually reach Starkweather by taking Highway 20 north from Devils Lake, enjoying the serene views along the way. The lack of commercial development and the expansive natural surroundings contribute to the town’s secluded feel, making it a hidden gem in the state’s vast landscape.
8. Hansboro
With a population hovering around 15 residents, Hansboro is one of those tiny towns that offers an unmatched sense of tranquility. Situated close to the Canadian border, it provides a serene environment with plenty of undeveloped land and natural beauty.
I love the peace and quiet here, where the loudest sounds are often the wind through the grasses and the songs of meadowlarks. There isn’t much in the way of industry, but the simplicity of life is what makes Hansboro special.
Its seclusion is due to both its small population and its location amid the vast prairies, offering privacy and a true escape from the bustle of city life.
Where is Hansboro?
Hansboro is located in Towner County, in the far north-central part of North Dakota. Just a stone’s throw from the Canadian border, the town is off the beaten path, surrounded by open fields and endless skies.
To visit Hansboro, I usually head north on Highway 281 and then take some of the local county roads, enjoying the sense of adventure that comes with navigating these quiet routes. The town’s remote position and the lack of through traffic contribute to its secluded charm, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude.
7. Mylo
Mylo is a small community with around 20 residents, and its peaceful setting has always appealed to me. The town’s minimal development means that nature takes center stage, with plenty of opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the open countryside.
While there aren’t major industries here, agriculture remains a staple, with local farms contributing to the region’s economy. What makes Mylo secluded is its tucked-away location and the vast expanses of land that surround it, offering a quiet haven away from the noise and stress of larger towns.
Where is Mylo?
Situated in Rolette County in northeastern North Dakota, Mylo is nestled amidst rolling prairies and farmlands. It’s located southeast of the Turtle Mountain region, known for its natural beauty.
I typically reach Mylo by driving along Highway 66 and then turning onto local roads that lead into the heart of the town. The journey through the picturesque landscape adds to the sense of remoteness, and the town’s small size ensures that it remains a peaceful retreat for those who discover it.
6. Nekoma
Nekoma, with a population of about 50 people, is perhaps best known for its unique historical site—the Stanley R. Mickelsen Safeguard Complex, an imposing pyramid-shaped missile defense structure from the Cold War era.
I find the history fascinating and enjoy exploring the areas around this landmark. The town is surrounded by the expansive plains of Cavalier County, and agriculture is the mainstay of the local economy.
Nekoma’s seclusion comes from both its sparse population and its position amid vast stretches of farmland, offering a quiet lifestyle removed from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Nekoma?
Nekoma is located in northeastern North Dakota, approximately 30 miles south of the Canadian border. It’s nestled along Highway 1, but the surrounding rural areas ensure that it maintains a secluded feel.
When I visit, I usually drive north from Langdon, enjoying the open roads and the wide skies that are characteristic of this part of the state. The town’s location and the low volume of traffic make it a peaceful destination for those interested in history and solitude.
5. Egeland
Egeland is a charming town with around 35 residents, offering an atmosphere that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts like me. The expansive natural beauty includes nearby lakes and wildlife areas, making it ideal for fishing, hunting, and bird watching.
Agriculture is prominent here, and the community is tightly knit, with everyone pitching in to support one another. What makes Egeland secluded is the combination of its low population density and the vast open spaces that surround it, providing a serene environment far from crowded cities.
Where is Egeland?
Located in Towner County, Egeland sits in the northeastern part of North Dakota. It’s a bit off the main highways, which contributes to its tranquil setting. I usually reach Egeland by taking Highway 17 east from Cando and then heading north on local roads.
The peaceful drive through the countryside sets the tone for a visit to this secluded town, where the quiet and the natural surroundings make for a perfect getaway.
4. Alsen
Alsen is a small, unincorporated community that offers a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. With a population of just a handful of residents, the town is surrounded by spacious farmland and open skies.
I appreciate the tranquility here, where life moves at a slower pace, and the simplicity of rural living is front and center. There’s no significant industry aside from agriculture, and the lack of commercial development adds to the town’s secluded charm.
Where is Alsen?
Alsen is located in Cavalier County in northeastern North Dakota. It’s situated off Highway 66, making it slightly more remote and less traveled. When I visit Alsen, I take the quiet county roads that wind through the farmlands, enjoying the uninterrupted views of the prairie.
The town’s remote location and minimal traffic contribute to its sense of seclusion, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and quiet.
3. Wales
Wales, with a population of around 30 residents, is a quiet retreat that offers vast open spaces and a serene environment. I find the simplicity of life here refreshing, with few distractions and a strong connection to nature.
The town doesn’t have significant industries, but agriculture plays a role in the community. What makes Wales particularly secluded is its remote location and the expansive landscapes that provide plenty of privacy and room to breathe.
Where is Wales?
Situated in Cavalier County near the Canadian border, Wales is tucked away in northeastern North Dakota. It’s accessible via Highway 66 and some local roads, which see little traffic.
I enjoy the peaceful drive to Wales, where the absence of crowds and the quiet surroundings make it feel like a true getaway. The town’s isolation and the tranquil environment make it a perfect spot for those looking to relax and unwind.
2. Hannah
Hannah is a tranquil town with a population of about 15 people, surrounded by rolling farmlands that stretch as far as the eye can see. I appreciate the rustic charm and the slower pace of life here.
There aren’t any major industries apart from agriculture, which adds to the town’s peaceful atmosphere. Hannah’s seclusion comes from its very small population and its location far from urban centers, offering a genuine retreat into rural North Dakota life.
Where is Hannah?
Located in Cavalier County, Hannah sits in the northeastern corner of North Dakota, just south of the Canadian border. It’s off the main highways, which enhances its secluded feel.
To get there, I usually take Highway 5 east from Langdon and then head north on local roads. The journey through the gently rolling farmland is a calming experience, and the town’s remote location ensures a quiet visit away from the noise and crowds.
1. Calvin
Nestled near the Canadian border, Calvin is a quaint town with approximately 20 residents. I find the expansive rural landscapes and the close-knit community here perfect for those seeking solitude.
The town offers a peaceful environment with opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. There are no significant industries aside from farming, and the simplicity of life is one of Calvin’s most appealing aspects.
Its seclusion is due to both its small population and its remote location, making it an ideal spot for a quiet getaway or a permanent escape from city life.
Where is Calvin?
Calvin is located in Cavalier County in northeastern North Dakota, not far from the Canadian border. It’s off Highway 66 and is surrounded by vast stretches of farmland and natural beauty.
When I visit Calvin, I take the scenic route through the countryside, enjoying the peacefulness that comes with the open roads and minimal traffic. The town’s remote location and the expansive landscapes that surround it contribute to its secluded charm, offering a serene retreat for those who discover it.
