The oil industry is booming in northern United States as a result of the Bakken formation which occupies about 200,000 square miles over parts of western North Dakota and eastern Montana, as well as southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba in Canada. The Bakken formation is one of the largest oil developments in the United States in the past 40 years. In fact, oil production increased 329% between 2005 and 2011 alone, and North Dakota now boasts an unemployment rate of approximately 3%. It is estimated that there are 30 billion barrels of recoverable oil in the Bakken/Three Forks formations according to the NDIC. Folks in these areas deserve an adventurous getaway. (Like anyone needs an excuse to take a houseboat vacation anyway.)

Take a break from the oil wells and head to your nearest houseboating destination. We've got an array of options nearby; each location offering a uniquely exciting yet relaxing experience that is sure to be unforgettable.

• At Lake of the Woods, you'll board your pick of 8 houseboat options in Morson, Ontario Canada. Lake of the Woods is a vast, natural giant that spans over 1680 square miles with over 65,000 miles of shoreline and over 14,000 islands. This area is known for fishing as Lake Perch and Northern Pike are common catches, as well as Bass and Muskellunge.

• Voyageurs National Park, near Orr, MN, the houseboats have access to Crane Lake, Lake Kabetogama, Lake Namakan and Kettle Falls in Voyageurs National Park. The park stretches over 100 miles along the Canada-Minnesota border over one million acres of roadless wilderness.

• Rainy Lake, near International Falls, MN, boasts some of the best fishing in the United States. Rainy Lake is abound with Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike, Crappie and Muskies. Bring a pole and relax from the comfort of your own houseboat deck or explore the endless pure water by canoe.

• Or head south to Alma, Wisconsin and take off on the waters of the great Mississippi River for a completely different kind of houseboat vacation. There are so many sights to see and stops to make all along this awe inspiring river, you may just have to come back for future vacations and experience more.

• Lake Koocanusa spans across the border of western Montana and British Columbia, it's stunning blue water surrounded by the majestic mountains of both countries. Ease your houseboat onto the shore a sandy beach or to one of the hundreds of tree covered islands.

• Lake Roosevelt, in northeastern Washington State is the perfect place for a change of scenery. Lake Roosevelt will capture you in serenity as you drive your houseboat along its long, narrow shores. There are hundreds of bird species and animals in the area. Watch for moose along the banks!

Each of these points is within a 14 hour drive from Williston, ND (and we hear that's about as close as anything is to Williston.) Just kidding. But in all seriousness, each of these locations is guarenteed to refuel your soul and reset your systems to a peaceful state so you can head back to work and every day life with vim and viggor. 

Talk to a houseboat professional and plan your well deserved getaway today! Give us a call at 888-454-8825 or Request Information online for more information or current availability.