Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow
New Salem, ND
A giant fiberglass Holstein cow on a hill above Interstate 94, visible from far across the prairie. It is a classic roadside photo stop with a good view of the town and the surrounding plains.
Salem Sue stands on School Hill at Exit 127 of Interstate 94 in New Salem, about 50 km (30 miles) west of Bismarck. The hollow fiberglass figure was designed by artist Dave Oswald in 1974 and built by Sculpture Mfg. Co. of La Crosse, Wisconsin. She is about 11.6 m (38 ft) tall and 15 m (50 ft) long and weighs roughly 5.4 metric tons (12,000 lb). The New Salem Lions Club initiated the project to honor the dairy industry; the $40,000 cost was covered by donations from farmers and local residents.
The cow is visible from far away. Visiting is free; a donation box shaped like a milk can helps pay for upkeep and repainting. Fifteen to 30 minutes is enough for photos and a short break, and her spot right by the interstate makes her a convenient stop.
- Nearest town
- New Salem, ND
- Category
- Roadside oddities
- GPS
- 46.8450, -101.4140
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August. Cold, short days in November–March. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- North City ParkCampsite0 mi from Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow · 6 pitches
- North Park CampgroundCampsite0 mi from Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow · 12 pitchesTentsCaravans
- Memorial Park CampgroundCampsite21 mi from Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein CowWi-Fi
- Harmon Lake CampgroundMotorhome stopover22 mi from Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein CowMotorhomes
All campsites in North Dakota · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow?
Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow is in New Salem, ND, at GPS 46.8450, -101.4140. It is about 30 mi from Bismarck.
Can you camp near Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is North City Park, about 0 mi away; within 25 mi there are 4 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow?
Places worth a stop nearby: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park (27 mi), North Dakota State Capitol (30 mi), Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site (34 mi) and Fort Mandan (34 mi).
When is the best time to visit Salem Sue, the World's Largest Holstein Cow?
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)