- Pembina is a city located in Pembina County, North Dakota, United States. It is located along the Red River of the North and is the county seat of Pembina County. As of the 2020 census, the population of Pembina was 550. Pembina is a historic city, being one of the oldest settlements in North Dakota. It was founded in 1812 and has a rich history as a fur trading post and a gateway to the west during the early days of the United States. Today, Pembina is known for its small-town charm and rural Midwestern atmosphere. The city offers various recreational activities, including fishing, hunting, and camping, as well as historic sites and museums showcasing its rich history.