In the
Red River Valley Region, Pelican Rapids is located in
Otter Tail County. It lies on US 59 southeast of
Moorhead. A unique collection of habitats provide homes for a variety of birds. Maplewood State Park is one of many stops on the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail. Maplewood State Park is eight miles east of Pelican Rapids on Hwy 108 East. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 2,139, an increase of 253 since 1990.