Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- WD - Home
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
National Park Travel Guide
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is where wide-open skies, painted badlands, and untamed wildlife remind us why the president who loved this land fought to protect America’s wild places.
Prairie grasslands, painted badlands, and roaming bison create a breathtaking landscape at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where the wild spirit of America still lives. It's named for the president whose time ranching here inspired his conservation ethic. With far fewer visitors than Yellowstone or Badlands, this park is a hidden gem of the northern plains.
How to Get There
The nearest airport is Dickinson (DIK), 35 miles from the South Unit. Bismarck (BIS) is approximately 2 hours away, and Fargo is about 4.5 hours away. Amtrak serves nearby towns, but driving is often the easiest option. Medora, ND, is the main gateway town, with access to the South Unit.
Know Before You Go
Entry fees are standard ($30 per vehicle for 7 days). Summers can be hot, winters brutally cold. Bison, prairie dogs, and wild horses roam freely—give them space. Some roads and trails may close in the spring due to flooding. As part of our conservation efforts, we encourage visitors to respect the park's wildlife and natural beauty and to follow all park rules and regulations.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring and early fall are the best times, with mild weather and fewer mosquitoes. Summer is the peak season, although it is still relatively uncrowded compared to other parks. Winter offers solitude but harsh conditions.
Best Things to Do
Scenic drives: The 36-mile South Unit loop offers a stunning view of the Badlands and diverse wildlife.
Painted Canyon Visitor Center: Incredible overlook right off I-94.
Wildlife watching: Herds of bison, elk, wild horses, and prairie dogs.
Medora Musical: A kitschy but beloved summer show celebrating cowboy culture.
Best Hikes
Painted Canyon Nature Trail (1 mile): Quick loop with colorful badlands views.
Petrified Forest Loop (10 miles): Remote trek through ancient petrified wood.
Caprock Coulee Trail (4.3 miles): Popular loop with sweeping views and varied terrain.
Where to Stay
Cottonwood Campground (South Unit): Scenic sites near the Little Missouri River.
Juniper Campground (North Unit): Quieter option with prairie solitude.
Medora: Western-themed hotels, inns, and cabins.
Where to Eat
Medora restaurants: Steaks, bison burgers, and hearty comfort food.
Pitchfork Steak Fondue (Medora): Steaks cooked cowboy-style on pitchforks over an open fire.
Larger dining options are in Dickinson and Bismarck.
