Do I need a visa to visit Four Bears Village?

International visitors need a valid US visa or ESTA. Check with the US embassy.

Is the Four Bears Casino open 24/7?

Yes, the casino is open 24 hours daily, but hours may vary for other amenities.

Can I fish in Lake Sakakawea without a license?

No, a North Dakota fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.

Are there hiking trails near the village?

Yes, there are trails along the lake and in the surrounding plains. Ask at the lodge for maps.

What is the closest major airport?

Williston Basin International Airport (XWA) is about 60 miles away; Bismarck Airport (BIS) is about 100 miles.

Is the village pet-friendly?

Some accommodations allow pets; check with the lodge or hotel in advance.

Are there grocery stores in Four Bears Village?

There is a small convenience store; for full groceries, drive to New Town (10 miles).

What is the time zone?

Four Bears Village is in the Central Time Zone (America/Chicago).

Four Bears Village

CityNorth Dakota, United States

Four Bears Village is a CITY in North Dakota, United States.

Four Bears Village, nestled along the scenic Missouri River in North Dakota, offers a unique blend of Native American heritage and outdoor adventure. This small community on the Fort Berthold Reservation is a gateway to Lake Sakakawea, where fishing, boating, and hiking abound. Visitors can explore the Four Bears Casino & Lodge for entertainment, or delve into local history at the nearby Three Tribes Museum. The landscape is marked by rolling plains and river bluffs, providing stunning sunsets and a peaceful atmosphere. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot bison, eagles, and deer. The village is a cultural hub for the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, with powwows and events showcasing traditional dances and crafts. Whether you're seeking relaxation or exploration, Four Bears Village offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in the heart of the Great Plains.

Best time to visit Four Bears Village

Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is warm and ideal for water activities on Lake Sakakawea, but can be busy. Winter (November-March) is cold with snow, limiting outdoor activities but offering a quiet, serene landscape.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 3 to 14°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Fall colors; hunting season begins.

Know before you go

Getting there

XWA

Williston Basin International Airport

Domestic

97 km away

BIS

Bismarck Municipal Airport

Domestic

161 km away

MOT

Minot International Airport

Domestic

145 km away

Getting around

"A car is essential for exploring Four Bears Village and the surrounding area. Rental cars are available in Bismarck or Williston. Roads are well-maintained, but some rural routes may be gravel. Taxis and ride-sharing are scarce; plan ahead. Biking is possible in summer, but distances are large. The village is walkable only within the immediate casino and lodge area."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at the casino and lodge; limited elsewhere

Local SIM

Local SIM available at stores in New Town from $10

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scam risk is low but be cautious of informal tour offers. Wildlife encounters are the main safety concern.

Night safety

7/10

Scam risk is low but be cautious of informal tour offers. Wildlife encounters are the main safety concern.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Four Bears Village is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas. Wildlife encounters (e.g., bison) are possible; keep a safe distance. The area is remote, so ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry extra fuel. Weather can change rapidly; check forecasts. Petty theft is rare but lock vehicles and secure valuables."

Police

911

Ambulance

911

Fire

911

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. The nearest hospital is in New Town (about 10 miles away). For emergencies, dial 911. Carry a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications, as pharmacies are limited. Tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease are possible in wooded areas; check for ticks after outdoor activities. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is recommended for sensitive stomachs."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect Native American culture and traditions. Ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies. Dress modestly when visiting cultural sites. Tipping is customary at restaurants (15-20%) and for services. Greetings are friendly but not overly effusive. Alcohol is prohibited in some public areas; check local laws. Powwows are sacred events; observe quietly and do not interrupt."

English (official)SpanishChineseTagalogVietnameseFrenchArabicKoreanGermanItalianEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a meal at a local diner costs around $10-15

Hotels

$80-120 | budget hotels range $80-120/night

Local transport

$0.50 | local bus ride ~$0.50 (limited service)

Cost notes

Casino and lodge offer competitive rates. Fuel and groceries may be slightly higher due to remote location.

Timezone

America/Chicago
Local time 17:01

More facts

Population

517

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: For Bers Vilidz, For-Bers-Villedzh, Four Bears Village, fr br wylyj dakwtay shmaly, fwr byrz, Фор Берс Вилиџ, Фор-Берс-Вилледж, Фор-Берс-Вілледж, فر بر ویلیج، داکوتای شمالی, فور بيرز

CityHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingFishingCasinoNative American Culture