Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in the rugged Badlands of western North Dakota, is a tribute to the legacy of the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, who found solace and inspiration in the region’s untamed beauty. Encompassing over 70,000 acres, the park is divided into three units: the North Unit, the South Unit, and the Elkhorn Ranch Unit, where Roosevelt’s ranch once stood. Visitors can explore dramatic landscapes of layered canyons, rolling prairies, and unique geological formations, home to abundant wildlife like bison, elk, prairie dogs, and wild horses. The park offers opportunities for hiking, camping, scenic drives, and stargazing, providing a glimpse into the wilderness that shaped Roosevelt’s conservationist ideals and his enduring commitment to protecting America’s natural treasures.
Park Information Quick Facts
Location: North Dakota
Park Size: 70,000 Acres
Time Needed: 1-2 days
Best Season: Summer
Must Do: Town of Medora
Pro Tips:Bring binoculars or a spotting scope to fully appreciate the park’s abundant wildlife and sweeping landscapes.
Visitor Centers
Theodore Roosevelt National Park has two main visitor centers, each offering unique experiences and valuable information to enhance your visit. The South Unit Visitor Center, located in Medora, North Dakota, serves as a hub for exploring the most accessible and frequently visited part of the park. Inside, visitors can view exhibits about Theodore Roosevelt’s time in the Badlands and his role in conservation, watch an introductory film about the park, and browse a bookstore filled with maps, guides, and souvenirs. Adjacent to the center is the Maltese Cross Cabin, one of Roosevelt’s original ranch homes, where rangers offer interpretive talks about his life and connection to the area. This visitor center is a great starting point for learning about the park’s history and planning your adventures in the South Unit.
The North Unit Visitor Center, located near Watford City, provides insights into the park’s more remote and rugged landscapes. Although smaller than the South Unit facility, it offers exhibits about the geology, flora, and fauna of the Badlands, as well as information about Native American history in the region. Rangers are on hand to answer questions and provide guidance on trails and scenic drives, helping visitors make the most of their time in the North Unit. The visitor center’s location near the park entrance makes it an excellent stop for orientation before venturing deeper into the dramatic canyons and wide-open spaces. Both centers serve as gateways to discovering the unique natural beauty and historical significance of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Plan Your Theodore Roosevelt Adventure Today!
Planning a trip to Theodore Roosevelt National Park involves preparing for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and seasonal weather. Start by deciding which unit—South, North, or Elkhorn Ranch—you’d like to explore, or plan to visit multiple units for a comprehensive experience. Check the park’s website for information on current conditions, trail updates, and ranger-led programs. Pack essentials like sturdy hiking shoes, layers for changing weather, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially during the summer. If you’re camping, make reservations in advance for one of the park’s campgrounds. For a deeper understanding of the park’s history and ecology, stop by the visitor centers and consider joining a ranger program. With its stunning views, rich wildlife, and historical significance, a well-planned trip ensures you’ll make the most of your visit to this North Dakota gem.
Getting There
How to Travel to Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Traveling to Theodore Roosevelt National Park requires careful planning, as the park is located in the remote Badlands of western North Dakota. The most common gateway is via the South Unit, accessible from the small town of Medora, which lies directly off Interstate 94. Medora is about 130 miles west of Bismarck, North Dakota’s capital, making it a convenient drive for those flying into Bismarck Municipal Airport. If you’re traveling from farther west, the South Unit is about 25 miles east of the Montana-North Dakota border. The North Unit, near Watford City, is further north and requires an additional drive, but the scenic beauty along the way makes the journey worthwhile.
For those coming from outside the region, flying into a nearby airport is the fastest way to start your journey. Airports in Bismarck, Dickinson, or Williston provide access to the park, with Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport being the closest at just 35 miles from Medora. From the airport, you can rent a car, as having your own vehicle is essential for exploring the park’s scenic drives and accessing remote areas. For road trippers, Interstate 94 and U.S. Highway 85 provide the main routes to the South and North Units, respectively, offering a glimpse of North Dakota’s open prairies and rolling hills along the way.
Once you’ve reached the park, driving is the best way to get around, as the park’s two scenic loops—the South Unit’s Scenic Loop Drive and the North Unit’s Scenic Drive—offer breathtaking views of the Badlands. Both routes have numerous pullouts and trailheads, allowing you to explore at your own pace. If you’re visiting during winter or early spring, check for road closures or weather-related restrictions. Whether you fly or drive, the journey to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is part of the adventure, giving you a chance to experience the vast and rugged beauty of the northern plains before even setting foot in the park.
Camping
Camping at Theodore Roosevelt National Park is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of the Badlands. The park offers two campgrounds: the Cottonwood Campground in the South Unit and the Juniper Campground in the North Unit. Both provide a serene setting with basic amenities, including picnic tables, fire grates, and restrooms, but no hookups. Reservations are recommended, especially during the summer, as sites can fill up quickly. For a more rustic experience, backcountry camping is permitted with a free permit, allowing you to explore the park’s remote areas. Stargazing is a highlight of camping here, as the park’s dark skies reveal countless stars. Be prepared for wildlife encounters, pack plenty of water, and follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Cottonwood Campground (South Unit)
- Location: Situated in the South Unit of the park, near the scenic loop and the park’s main visitor center in Medora.
- Sites: 76 campsites available, with both reservable and first-come, first-served options.
- Amenities: The campground includes picnic tables, fire grates, drinking water, restrooms, and trash disposal. It also has a dump station.
- Season: Open from mid-April to mid-November.
- Special Features: Cottonwood Campground is surrounded by the park’s striking Badlands terrain, offering easy access to trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. There are no hookups, and the campground is often filled during peak summer months, so reservations are advised.
Juniper Campground (North Unit)
- Location: Located in the North Unit of the park, about 40 miles from the town of Watford City.
- Sites: 25 campsites available, with both reservable and first-come, first-served options.
- Amenities: Sites include picnic tables, fire grates, drinking water, restrooms, and trash services. There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups.
- Season: Open from mid-May to mid-September, depending on weather conditions.
- Special Features: Juniper Campground is nestled within the scenic hills and canyons of the North Unit, offering a quieter, more remote camping experience compared to the South Unit. It’s ideal for those seeking solitude and access to the North Unit’s trails and views.
Popular Hiking Trails
Petrified Forest Trail
- Length: 0.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Description: This short, easy trail takes visitors through a unique area of the South Unit filled with fossilized trees and colorful geological formations. It’s a great introduction to the park’s ancient history and features interpretive signs along the way.
- Highlights: Petrified wood, panoramic views, and fascinating geological features.
Coal Vein Trail
- Length: 1.2 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Description: This trail takes visitors through the park’s scenic canyon areas, leading to the site of exposed coal veins. It offers a combination of easy and moderate terrain with an interesting geological focus.
- Highlights: Unique rock formations, wildlife, and scenic canyon views.
Caprock Coulee Trail
- Length: 1.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Description: A scenic loop trail that descends into the canyon, offering views of the rugged terrain and the opportunity to see wildlife. It is a moderately strenuous trail with elevation changes.
- Highlights: Dramatic views of the Caprock Coulee, wildlife sightings, and canyon scenery.
Boicourt Trail
- Length: 0.7 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Description: A short and accessible loop trail that offers an easy walk through the North Unit’s scenic prairie. This trail is perfect for those looking for a quick hike with beautiful views.
- Highlights: Prairie vistas, wildlife sightings, and an easy hike suitable for families.
Ridgeline Trail
- Length: 2.5 miles (one-way)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Description: This trail takes hikers along the top of a ridge, offering incredible views of the Badlands and prairie below. It’s a moderately challenging hike that provides an excellent opportunity to spot wildlife.
- Highlights: Sweeping views of the South Unit, wildlife sightings, and an opportunity for a more strenuous hike.
The Painted Canyon Overlook Trail
- Length: 0.5 miles (out and back)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Description: A short, paved trail with a gradual incline, this hike leads to a scenic overlook of the Painted Canyon. It’s an ideal choice for a quick and accessible hike that offers fantastic panoramic views.
- Highlights: Spectacular views of the Painted Canyon, short and easy hike.
Achenbach Trail
- Length: 6 miles (one-way)
- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
- Description: A more challenging hike that traverses through the North Unit’s varied terrain, offering spectacular views and opportunities for wildlife sightings. It can be combined with the Caprock Coulee Trail for a longer, more strenuous hike.
- Highlights: Expansive views, rugged Badlands landscapes, and diverse wildlife.
Cannonball Concretions Pullout Trail
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- Length: 0.25 miles (out and back)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Description: A brief, easy trail that leads to a fascinating collection of round, rock formations known as “concretions.” These unique geological features make the trail an interesting stop for geology enthusiasts.
- Highlights: Cannonball concretions, short and easy hike.
Hiking Trails in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Hiking at Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the park’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife. The park features a variety of trails that cater to all levels of hikers, from easy, scenic walks to more strenuous, backcountry adventures. In the South Unit, popular trails like the Petrified Forest and Ridgeline Trails provide breathtaking views of the Badlands, with unique geological formations and wildlife sightings along the way. These trails allow visitors to experience the park’s dramatic scenery and gain insight into the area’s fossil-rich past, making them ideal for both casual hikers and those looking for a more immersive outdoor experience.
The North Unit of the park, which is less visited than the South Unit, offers more rugged and remote hiking opportunities. Trails such as the Caprock Coulee and Achenbach Trails take hikers through narrow canyons, expansive prairies, and high ridgelines, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. These trails tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more tranquil experience, and they are often frequented by wildlife, including bison, elk, and wild horses. The North Unit’s more challenging terrain makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a wilderness experience that is both beautiful and adventurous.
For those seeking even more solitude and a sense of exploration, the park also offers backcountry hiking. Permits are required for backcountry camping, and these trails lead hikers into the park’s more isolated regions, where they can truly disconnect from the world and experience the untouched beauty of the Badlands. Whether sticking to the well-maintained trails or venturing into the wilderness, hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park provides an unforgettable way to experience the vastness and serenity of this North Dakota gem. Be sure to prepare adequately for your hike, as the park’s terrain can be challenging, and weather conditions can change quickly, especially during the summer months.
Wildlife at the Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, making it a premier destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. One of the park’s most iconic residents is the American bison, which roams the prairies and hills in large herds. These majestic animals were once on the brink of extinction but have made a significant comeback, thanks to conservation efforts in the park and beyond. Visitors can often spot bison grazing in the early morning or late afternoon, offering a striking image against the park’s rugged landscape. The park is also home to other large mammals, including elk, mule deer, and pronghorn antelope, which can be seen in the open grasslands or the wooded areas along the park’s trails.
The park’s more rugged and remote areas are home to elusive predators like coyotes, bobcats, and mountain lions, although sightings of these animals are rare due to their secretive nature. The park’s diverse ecosystems—from grasslands to forested canyons—support a wide range of wildlife, offering visitors the chance to observe nature in its most untamed form. Whether hiking the trails, driving through the park’s scenic loops, or simply enjoying the views, wildlife encounters are a highlight of any visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. With its blend of large and small animals, the park remains a vital refuge for species and an important part of America’s conservation story.
In addition to the large mammals, Theodore Roosevelt National Park supports a diverse range of smaller animals and birds. Prairie dogs are a common sight in the park, particularly in the South Unit, where their burrows create bustling communities. These small, social creatures are a favorite of visitors and are often seen along the side of trails, where they provide an entertaining spectacle. The park’s grasslands and mixed woodlands also host a variety of bird species, such as the Western Meadowlark, Red-tailed Hawk, and Northern Harrier. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting these species, especially during spring and fall migration seasons, when the park becomes a stopping point for many migratory birds.
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Must-Do Activities
Scenic Drives and Overlooks
Take a drive along the South Unit’s Scenic Loop Drive or the North Unit’s Scenic Drive for some of the park’s most breathtaking views. These routes provide easy access to stunning landscapes, including dramatic Badlands formations, open prairies, and dense canyons. Along the way, stop at designated pullouts and overlooks to capture photos and enjoy wildlife sightings, such as bison, wild horses, and elk. The Painted Canyon Overlook in the South Unit is especially popular for panoramic views.
Wildlife Watching
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a wildlife haven, offering opportunities to spot bison, elk, pronghorn antelope, prairie dogs, and a variety of bird species. Whether on a scenic drive or hiking one of the park’s trails, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. The best times for sightings are early in the morning or late in the afternoon when animals are most active. For a unique experience, bring binoculars to catch a glimpse of the park’s more elusive species, such as coyotes or bobcats.
Hiking the Trails
With a variety of trails to choose from, hiking is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the park’s diverse landscapes. Whether you opt for the short, easy Petrified Forest Trail or the more challenging Achenbach Trail in the North Unit, the park’s trails offer something for everyone. Hikers can explore canyons, ridgelines, and prairies while enjoying solitude and wildlife encounters. Be sure to carry water and prepare for changing weather conditions.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park History
The history of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is deeply intertwined with the legacy of the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, who was profoundly shaped by his time spent in the Badlands of North Dakota. In the 1880s, a young Roosevelt traveled to the region to seek solace after the death of his mother and wife. The rugged landscape and harsh conditions of the Badlands ignited his passion for conservation and a deep respect for the American wilderness. During his time in North Dakota, Roosevelt ranched in the area and came to embrace the challenges of frontier life. His experiences in the Badlands were pivotal in shaping his environmental policies and his role as a progressive advocate for the conservation movement, which led to the establishment of national parks, forests, and monuments during his presidency.
In recognition of Roosevelt’s enduring connection to the region, Theodore Roosevelt National Park was established in 1947, long after his time spent in the area. The park was created to preserve not only the unique landscapes of the Badlands but also the historical and cultural significance of Roosevelt’s time in North Dakota. The park’s two main units—South and North—are a tribute to the natural beauty and ruggedness that inspired Roosevelt’s conservation efforts. The South Unit is home to the Maltese Cross Cabin, where Roosevelt lived while in the area, and visitors can tour this historic site to gain insight into his life during this formative period.
Beyond Roosevelt’s personal history, the park also protects the cultural heritage of the Native American tribes who lived in the region long before European settlers arrived. The Lakota Sioux, Mandan, and Hidatsa peoples inhabited the area for centuries, leaving behind evidence of their presence in the form of petroglyphs, arrowheads, and other artifacts. The park’s landscape contains remnants of ancient civilizations and a rich history of human activity, including the influence of ranching and European settlement. Today, visitors to Theodore Roosevelt National Park can explore both the natural and historical elements of the area, gaining a deeper understanding of the park’s significance in shaping America’s conservation ethos and its enduring legacy.