Williston is located in northwestern North Dakota in southwestern Williams County (of which it is the county seat) on the banks of the Missouri River/Lake Sakakawea about 20 miles east of the Montana border.

Other than activities stimulated by the lake, outdoor lovers can take advantage of Lewis and Clark State Park about 20 miles east of town or shoot a round of golf at Links of North Dakota at Red Mike Resort, Williston Country Club or Williston Municipal Golf Course, all open to the public.

Williston is rich with historic significance. Along with Ft. Buford State Historic Site and the Ft. Union Trading Post Nat. Hist. Site up river from the town, the area's proximity to the Yellowstone River was strategically important in protecting the advancing settlers on their trek west.