Theodore Roosevelt came to the Dakota Territory in 1883 to hunt bison here. At the time, he could not have imagined how his adventure in this remote and unfamiliar place (he was a New Yorker) would shape the rest of his life and the US. Both the rugged landscape here and the strenuous life that he experienced here would help shape his groundbreaking conservation policy that benefits and lasts through today.
Current Park Alerts
Live from the National Park Service · Official park site →
Plan Your Visit
Hours & Season
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. This applies to all units of the park; North Unit, South Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch Unit. Even when entrance stations and visitor centers are closed, the park itself remains open. Remember to check current conditions for any weather related closures.
Entrance Fees
- $30 – Entrance - Private Vehicle
- $25 – Entrance - Motorcycle
- $15 – Entrance - Per Person
Weather
In winter, some or all park roads may be closed due to snow.
Things to Do
Hike Skyline Vista Trail
Skyline Vista Trail is a great accessible introduction to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Birding in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
The badlands of North Dakota are home to more than 180 species of birds. Take a moment and see which ones you can spot!
Wildlife Viewing - South Unit
Explore the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and see the wide variety of wildlife that lives there.
Wildlife Viewing - North Unit
Explore the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and see the wide variety of wildlife that lives there.
Visit the Elkhorn Ranch Unit
Visit the location of Theodore Roosevelt's home ranch, the Elkhorn, and experience the solitude of the North Dakota badlands.
Hike Coal Vein Trail
Take a hike on this 0.8-mile loop and learn about the geology of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Getting There
Address: PO Box 7 Medora ND 58645
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in the Badlands of western North Dakota. There are three units to the park. The South Unit entrance is in the town of Medora, ND off of Interstate 94 exits 24 and 27. The North Unit entrance is on Highway 85 approximately 14 miles south of Watford City, ND. The remote Elkhorn Ranch Unit sits roughly in the middle of the North and South Units and is accessed via gravel roads. Consult park staff for directions to the Elkhorn Ranch Unit.
Get driving directions → Official NPS directions →Where to Stay – Campgrounds
Cottonwood Campground
76 sites · $20/night
Cottonwood Campground lies inside the park, about 5 miles from Medora, ND. It is the South Unit's only campground. Beginning May 1, 2026 all sites are by reser…
Juniper Campground
50 sites · $20/night
Juniper Campground is 5 miles from Hwy 85 and is the only campground in the park's North Unit. All sites are open to tent camping and most can also be used by …
Roundup Group Horse Camp
1 sites · $70/night
Roundup is the park's only camping facility in which horses are permitted. This private campsite is located 12 miles from Medora, ND in the park's South Unit. …
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
The entrance fee for Theodore Roosevelt National Park is $30. See Plan Your Visit above for vehicle, per-person, and annual-pass rates.
When is Theodore Roosevelt National Park open?
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. This applies to all units of the park; North Unit, South Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch Unit. Even when entrance stations and visitor centers are closed, the park itself remains open. Remember to check current conditions for any weather related closures.
What are the best things to do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
Popular things to do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park include Hike Skyline Vista Trail, Birding in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Wildlife Viewing - South Unit, Wildlife Viewing - North Unit. See Things to Do above for photos and details.
Are there campgrounds in Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
Yes — Theodore Roosevelt National Park has 3 campgrounds, including Cottonwood Campground, Juniper Campground, Roundup Group Horse Camp. See Campgrounds above for site counts, fees, and booking links.