Welcome to Carrington! The "Central City" is located on the Southern Drift Plain near the edge of the Missouri Coteau in southeastern North Dakota. It is the county seat of Foster County and the business hub of the area. The varied landscapes around Carrington harbor some premier birding attractions. When you visit, you will find three birding drives originating from Carrington. They will take you through true prairie treasures and point out the exciting birds they have to offer. Southeastern North Dakota is characterized by sweeping croplands and grasslands, punctuated by thousands of prairie marshes. Planted tree claims and riparian woodlands add to the diversity of habitats. These varied habitats support a diverse avian community encompassing approximately 320 species. You should encounter a great diversity and density of waterfowl, shorebirds, and blackbirds. The area also hosts a dazzling array of breeding sparrows. Several highly-sought species of birds might be found in this region, including Ferruginous Hawk, Gray Partridge, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Piping Plover, Sprague’s Pipit, Baird’s Sparrow, LeConte’s Sparrow, Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow, and Chestnut-collared Longspur.

Click on the image above to view the drives in Carrington!

Carrington is proud to be included in the three communities that are sponsoring the Potholes and Prairie Birding Festival on Father’s Day Weekend, June 13-15, 2003.

Ann Hoffert and Martha Stewart on the set of Martha Stewart Living filming 2 segments that aired in November of 2002 www.pipestemcreek.com photo by Vanessa Lenz A popular destination for birders in the Carrington area is Pipestem Creek, manufacturer of edible bird feeders. Here, Pipestem Creek owner Ann Hoffert appears on the Martha Stewart Living television show. Ann has appeared in a number of publications; her business is nationally known.

Here is a sample of what awaits you in the Carrington area:

Arrowwood Wildlife Refuge
Just a 20 minute drive from Carrington, the refuge offers 16,000 acres of lakes, marshes, prairie grasslands, wooded coulees, cultivated fields and shelterbelt plantings. Wonderful birding opportunities abound.

Lake Juanita
Many area residents enjoy this popular lake. You'll find good summer and winter fishing here. Located 25 miles east of Carrington, you'll want to be sure to visit this area.

Hawk's Nest Ridge
Only a few miles southwest of Carrington is a butte (three hundred feet higher than the surrounding plains) known as 'The Hawk's Nest'. The area is owned by the Carrington Kiwanis Club, which has provided access roads and maintains the grounds. The undeveloped, unfenced 100 acre area has one of the few remaining native stands of buffalo grass and pine oaks. Visitors to the 'Hawk's Nest' can enjoy nature, hiking, birding and beautiful scenery.

Foster County Museum
Located at 2nd St. S and 16th Ave Carrington ND, it contains an interesting view of the history of Foster County through various antiques, artifacts, photos and memorabilia (Call Ralph Harmon 652-3363 or Henry Gussiaas 674-3270 to arrange a tour).

Downtown Business District
Visit our Main Street businesses downtown for some interesting antique finds, unique gifts and charming atmosphere.

Pipestem Creek
A unique place on the prairie producing beautiful products from the North Dakota earth for national and international markets. SunFlorals and Sunfeeders, all made with edible plant materials, may be used indoors or out. All items are hand made. Visit the production facilities and beautiful gardens. A charming gift shop is housed within a restored ten-sided granary.

Putnam House
Built in 1907 and located on Carrington's Main Street, the Putnam House is a 'must see' for those traveling through the area. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and contains museum collections and other items providing a lively depiction of Foster County's history. It is now owned by the Foster County Historical Society and is a rural cultural and community center.

For more information contact:
Carrington Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB
(701) 652-2524
(800) 641-9668