Uncover the Magic of Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a must for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. In this guide, we will explore the highlights of a day trip to this magnificent park, from its breathtaking landscapes to its fascinating history. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and let’s discover the best things to see and do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park!

5 Reasons to Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park

This vast and diverse landscape offers incredible opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives. Here are five reasons why you should plan your next trip to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

1. Spectacular Scenery

Theodore Roosevelt National Park boasts some of the most stunning scenery in the United States. The park is home to a landscape of layered rock formations and colorful cliffs. You’ll also find winding rivers, rolling hills, and expansive prairies. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking vistas.

2. Unforgettable Wildlife Viewing

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, coyotes, and bighorn sheep. Keep your eyes peeled for these animals as you explore the park’s trails. The park also offers guided wildlife viewing tours for visitors who want to see even more of North Dakota’s amazing wildlife.

3. Fascinating History

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is named for the 26th President of the United States. He spent time in the area in his early years. The park’s visitor center offers exhibits and educational programs that highlight Roosevelt’s life and legacy, as well as the history of the region’s Native American tribes.

4. Outdoor Recreation Opportunities

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll – the park offers over 100 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks. You can also explore the park on bike, horseback, or by taking a scenic drive.

5. Peaceful Seclusion

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the United States! This makes it the perfect destination for anyone who wants to get away from the crowds. With over 70,000 acres of wilderness to explore, you can lose yourself in the park’s natural beauty and find the solitude you’ve been craving.

Getting to Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The park is located in the western part of North Dakota, about 135 miles west of Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota. Here’s what you need to know to get there:

By Car

Driving to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the most popular option. The park has three entrances: the North Unit, the South Unit, and the Elkhorn Ranch Unit. The South Unit is the easiest to access because it’s right off of I-94. If you’re coming from the east, take exit 32 and follow the signs to the park. If you’re coming from the west, take exit 24 and follow the signs. The North Unit is about 70 miles north of the South Unit and is accessible via US Highway 85. The Elkhorn Ranch Unit is located between the North and South Units and is accessible via gravel roads.

Keep in mind that the roads inside the park are narrow and winding, so be prepared to drive slowly and carefully. Also, be aware that cell phone service is limited in the park, so it’s a good idea to have a map or GPS device with you.

By Air

If you’re coming from out of state, the closest airport to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the Bismarck Municipal Airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to the park. The airport is served by several major airlines, including Delta, United, and American.

Alternatively, you can fly into the Minot International Airport, which is about 100 miles north of the park. From there, you can rent a car and drive south to the park.

Overall, getting to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is relatively easy, whether you choose to drive or fly. We personally drove just over 8 hours from Minneapolis, MN to Medora, ND – not too bad! Once you’re there, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful relief from the stresses of daily life.

What to See and Do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

This park is a hidden gem located in North Dakota that offers a unique outdoor experience. The park is divided into three units, and each unit has its own set of attractions. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss in the park.

Must-See and Do Activities

The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife watching opportunities. Here are some of the must-see and do activities in the park:

• Take a scenic drive: The park has several scenic drives that offer breathtaking views. The 36-mile-long loop drive in the South Unit is a great way to see the park’s highlights.
• Go hiking: The park has over 100 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous. The Painted Canyon Trail in the North Unit is a popular trail that offers stunning views of the Badlands.
• Watch wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and pronghorns. The best time to see wildlife is early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Attend a ranger-led program: The park offers ranger-led programs that are both educational and fun. You can learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.

Historic Sites and Museums

Theodore Roosevelt National Park has a rich history, and there are several historic sites and museums that you can visit to learn about the park’s past. Here are some of the top sites and museums to visit:

• Maltese Cross Cabin: Theodore Roosevelt built this cabin in 1883 and is located in the South Unit. The cabin has been restored and is open to the public.
• Elkhorn Ranch Site: This is the site of Theodore Roosevelt’s ranch that he owned from 1884 to 1898. The site is located in the North Unit and has interpretive signs that provide information about the ranch.
• Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library: Construction began in 2023 and is projected to be completed in 2026. The library will be a state-of-the-art facility that will showcase the life and legacy of Theodore Roosevelt.

Camping and Accommodations

Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers several camping options, including campgrounds and backcountry camping. Here are some of the camping options available in the park:

• Cottonwood Campground: This campground is located in the South Unit and has 76 campsites. The campground has potable water, flush toilets, and showers.
• Juniper Campground: This campground is located in the North Unit and has 50 campsites. The campground has pit toilets and no potable water.
• Backcountry camping: The park allows backcountry camping with a permit. You can get your permit at the visitors centers.

If you prefer to stay in a hotel, there are several options in the nearby town of Medora. The town has hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts that cater to visitors of the park.

Start Planning Your Trip!

Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers visitors an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking landscape to the abundance of wildlife and thrilling outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Start your day with a scenic drive through the park, stopping at popular overlooks and trailheads. Immerse yourself in nature as you hike the many trails, admiring the unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems.

Don’t forget to visit the historic Maltese Cross Cabin, where Theodore Roosevelt once lived, and learn about his conservation efforts. Finally, end your day with a peaceful sunset at River Bend Overlook, taking in the beauty of this incredible national treasure. A trip to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a must-see when visiting North Dakota, so make sure to add it to your travel itinerary for a memorable experience!