Theodore Roosevelt National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park with our in-depth travel guide. Get tips on hiking and biking routes, where to stay, local food and culture, and more.


Introduction to Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in the Badlands of North Dakota, Great Plains, United States of America. The park was named after the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, who was a lover of nature and responsible for establishing national parks and conservation programs. The park spans 70,447 acres and is made up of three sections – North, South, and Elkhorn Ranch – each with its unique features.

List of Places to Visit in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Maltese Cross Cabin: This is the original cabin used by President Roosevelt when he visited the park in the late 1800s. It has been restored and is now part of the park’s museum system.

  • Painted Canyon Visitor Center: This center has interactive exhibits on the natural and human history of the park, a bookstore, and offers ranger-led programs.

  • Medora: This is a historic town near the entrance of the park that has been preserved and restored to its turn-of-the-century appearance.

Natural Attractions of Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Badlands formations: The park’s rugged badlands terrain is its most distinctive feature. There are several overlooks that provide views of canyons, buttes, and sharp spires.

  • Wildlife: Visitors can spot wildlife such as bison, pronghorns, elk, and coyotes. The park is also home to several species of birds and reptiles.

  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park Scenic Loop Drive: This 36-mile loop drive takes visitors through some of the park’s most scenic areas and provides great opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The park offers several hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the best:

  • Caprock Coulee Trail: A 4.2-mile round trip hike that passes along the Little Missouri River and through Cottonwood forests.

  • Coal Vein Trail: A 2.8-mile hike that takes visitors through the heart of the badlands.

  • Maah Daah Hey Trail: This trail is 144 miles long and runs through the park. It’s perfect for experienced hikers and mountain bikers.

Best Things to Do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in the park:

  • Horseback riding: Several outdoor companies offer guided horseback tours of the park.

  • Off-road tours: Visitors can also take guided off-road tours through some of the park’s more remote areas.

  • Ranger-led programs: The park rangers offer several programs, including hikes, talks, and tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for visitors to make the most of their time in the park:

Day 1: Arrive in Medora, explore the town, and visit the Painted Canyon Visitor Center.

Day 2: Hike the Caprock Coulee Trail, followed by a scenic drive on the park’s scenic loop road.

Day 3: Take a guided off-road tour to explore some of the park’s more remote areas.

Day 4: Explore the North Unit, with stops at the Oxbow Overlook and the River Bend Overlook.

Day 5: Take a guided horseback tour of the park.

Day 6: Visit the south unit of the park, with stops at Boicourt Overlook and Wind Canyon.

Day 7: Depart from Medora and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: The bison burger is a popular dish served at many of the restaurants in the park.

  • Chokecherry Jam: Made from the chokecherry fruit, this jam is a local specialty.

Local Beverages

  • North Dakota Beer: Several breweries in the state offer different varieties of North Dakota beer.

  • Huckleberry Wine: This sweet wine is made from the huckleberry fruit, found in the park and surrounding areas.

Where to Stay in Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Roosevelt Lodge: This historic lodge offers cabins, motel rooms, and campground options.

  • North Dakota Badlands Horse Camp: This campground allows visitors to camp with their horses in the park.

  • Cottonwood Campground: This campground has 76 sites and is located near the North Unit.

What to Buy in Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bison-related Souvenirs: Visitors can buy bison-related souvenirs, including hats, t-shirts, and plush toys.

  • Chokecherry Products: Chokecherry jelly, jam, and syrup are some of the popular local products to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Theodore Roosevelt National Park

  • Visitors should be respectful of the park’s wildlife and natural resources.

  • The park has a strong conservation ethic, and visitors are encouraged to leave no trace of their visit.

Best Time to Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild and the park is fully open. Fall, from September to October, is also a good time to visit, as the fall foliage makes for beautiful views. Winter, from November to April, can be harsh and cold, but it’s an excellent time for winter sports and avoiding the crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Do:

  • Respect the park’s wildlife and natural resources.

  • Leave no trace of your visit.

  • Take advantage of the ranger-led programs and tours.

Don’t:

  • Disturb or feed the park’s wildlife.

  • Take any souvenirs from the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

  • Visitors should be aware of potential hazards in the park, such as rough terrain and wildlife.

  • Visitors should also be prepared for extreme weather conditions.

Health in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

  • Visitors should stay hydrated and use sunscreen, as the park can get hot and sunny during the summer months.

  • Visitors should also be cautious of ticks, which can carry disease.

Getting to Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

  • Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DKN)

  • Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS)

Bus Stations Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

  • The closest bus terminal is in Billings, Montana.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also reach the park by driving or taking a guided tour.

How to Get Around in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Driving is the best way to get around the park. The park’s scenic loop drive is a must-do, providing visitors with the best views of the park’s landscape.

Where to Go Next from Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Medora

Medora, a historic town located near the park, offers several attractions, including a museum dedicated to President Theodore Roosevelt and the Medora Musical, which features nightly performances during the summer months.

Badlands National Park

Located just south of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Badlands National Park is another natural wonder of the area.

Conclusion

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a beautiful and unique destination, offering visitors a chance to explore the badlands of North Dakota and experience nature firsthand. With its scenic drives, hiking and biking trails, and rich cultural history, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in the park. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, Theodore Roosevelt National Park has something for everyone.

Badlands at Theodore Roosevelt N.P. Badlands at Theodore Roosevelt N.P.