
Theodore Roosevelt County Park
Explore the rugged beauty of Theodore Roosevelt's beloved badlands, a sanctuary for bison, wild horses, and dramatic landscapes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Theodore Roosevelt County Park
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the rugged beauty of Theodore Roosevelt's beloved badlands, a sanctuary for bison, wild horses, and dramatic landscapes.
"A truly wild and historic place that captures the spirit of the American West."

🚗 Drive the Scenic Loops
Explore the park's stunning badlands via the scenic drives. Allow ample time for stops! :car:
🥾 Lace Up for Hikes
Discover hidden gems on trails like the Painted Canyon. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Painted Canyon Overlook
South Unit
Witness the badlands' vibrant, layered geology. A truly breathtaking panorama.

Maltese Cross Cabin
South Unit
Step back in time at Theodore Roosevelt's historic cabin, a glimpse into his life.

Wildlife Viewing
Throughout the park
Spot bison, wild horses, prairie dogs, and more in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Scenic Loops
Explore the park's stunning badlands via the scenic drives. Allow ample time for stops! :car:
🥾 Lace Up for Hikes
Discover hidden gems on trails like the Painted Canyon. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Light
Sunrise and sunset paint the badlands in incredible colors. Early mornings are magical. :sunriseovermountains:
🔭 Binoculars for Wildlife
Spot bison and wild horses from a safe distance. Patience is key! :binoculars:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Scenic Loops
Explore the park's stunning badlands via the scenic drives. Allow ample time for stops! :car:
🥾 Lace Up for Hikes
Discover hidden gems on trails like the Painted Canyon. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Light
Sunrise and sunset paint the badlands in incredible colors. Early mornings are magical. :sunriseovermountains:
🔭 Binoculars for Wildlife
Spot bison and wild horses from a safe distance. Patience is key! :binoculars:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Desert conditions can be dry. Carry plenty of water, especially on hikes. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Theodore Roosevelt County Park for its breathtaking badlands scenery and abundant wildlife, particularly bison and wild horses. The historical significance of Theodore Roosevelt's connection to the land is also a major draw. Some visitors note that cell service can be unreliable and that amenities are spread out, requiring good planning.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park has two main units: the South Unit near Medora, ND, and the North Unit near Watford City, ND. Both are accessible by car. Medora is roughly a 4-hour drive from Bismarck, ND, and Watford City is about 2 hours from Bismarck. Consider flying into Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK) for closer access.
Theodore Roosevelt County Park is located in North Dakota, while Montauk is in New York. They are on opposite sides of the country and are not close to each other.
While it's possible to visit the general area, having a car is highly recommended for exploring Theodore Roosevelt County Park and its vast landscapes. Public transportation within the park is limited.
The North and South Units are about 70 miles apart by road. Driving is the only practical way to travel between them, and it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Currently, there are no official shuttle services operating within Theodore Roosevelt County Park. Visitors are encouraged to use their own vehicles to navigate the park's scenic drives and trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Theodore Roosevelt County Park. You can purchase a pass at the visitor centers or online. An annual pass is also available if you plan to visit multiple times.
The park is generally open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and facilities have specific operating hours, which vary by season. It's best to check the official NPS website for the most current information.
Yes, camping is available in both the South and North Units. Hither Hills State Park near Montauk offers campsites steps from the beach for around $35 a night, which is a more budget-friendly option if you're in that region.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, and individuals with disabilities. Check the park's official website for details on passes and potential discounts.
Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the park directly for specific inquiries regarding refunds.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Painted Canyon Overlook in the South Unit for stunning badlands views, and the Maltese Cross Cabin, Theodore Roosevelt's historic home. The wildlife viewing opportunities are also a major draw.
The park is home to bison, wild horses, pronghorn, prairie dogs, elk, and a variety of birds. Keep a safe distance and never feed the animals.
Yes, there are numerous trails suitable for all skill levels. The Buck Hill Trail and the Petrified Forest Trail offer moderate challenges with rewarding views. For easier walks, consider the Prairie Dog Village Trail.
Pack layers of clothing, as weather can change quickly. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a camera. Sturdy walking shoes are essential.
Cell service can be spotty to non-existent in many areas of the park, especially in the more remote sections. Download offline maps and inform someone of your itinerary before heading out.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the badlands. The 'golden hours' cast a warm glow on the landscape. Early mornings are also great for wildlife photography.
The Painted Canyon Overlook provides an iconic panorama. Other excellent spots include the Oxbow Overlook and the views along the scenic drives. Look for opportunities to capture wildlife against the unique landscape.
Landscape photography is very popular, capturing the rugged beauty of the badlands. Wildlife photography is also a major draw, with opportunities to photograph bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Check the National Park Service regulations for Theodore Roosevelt National Park regarding drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light photography during sunrise and sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas, making for a memorable family meal amidst the stunning badlands scenery. The visitor centers often have junior ranger programs that can engage children and teach them about the park's natural and historical significance. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities can be spread out.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Theodore Roosevelt's Legacy
His experiences in the badlands deeply influenced his conservationist views and his later presidency. He saw firsthand the impact of overhunting and land degradation, which fueled his passion for preserving natural resources. The park preserves the landscapes that shaped his character and his commitment to conservation, offering visitors a tangible connection to this pivotal period in American history. Visiting the Maltese Cross Cabin, where he lived for a time, provides a unique glimpse into his frontier life.
Roosevelt's time in North Dakota was instrumental in shaping his understanding of the American West and its preservation. He believed that the wilderness was a vital part of the nation's identity and future. His efforts led to the creation of national parks, national forests, and wildlife refuges, fundamentally changing how America viewed and managed its natural heritage. The park stands as a living testament to his vision and dedication to conservation.
Exploring the Badlands
The South Unit, near Medora, is the most visited and features the iconic Painted Canyon. The scenic drive here offers numerous pull-offs with breathtaking overlooks, perfect for photography and soaking in the vastness. Hiking trails like the Buck Hill Trail provide panoramic views, while the Petrified Forest Trail offers a glimpse into the area's ancient past. The abundance of wildlife, including bison herds, is a major highlight here.
The North Unit, while less visited, offers a more remote and rugged feel. The scenic drive winds through dramatic canyons and along the Little Missouri River. Hiking opportunities here are more challenging and rewarding, with trails like the Caprock Coulee Trail offering stunning vistas and a chance to experience the solitude of the badlands. Both units provide an immersive experience in a landscape that is both beautiful and historically significant.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit