Theodore Roosevelt National Park Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Scenic Drives, Wildlife & Tips for Visiting

If Theodore Roosevelt National Park isn’t already on your travel bucket list…it should be. 🤍

Located in western North Dakota, this underrated national park is filled with colorful badlands, incredible wildlife, scenic drives, hiking trails, and some of the most peaceful landscapes we’ve explored in the Midwest. It honestly feels like stepping into another world.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a road trip through the Dakotas, or pairing it with a visit to Medora, here’s everything you need to know before visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Where is Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in western North Dakota and is divided into three separate sections:

• South Unit (most popular + closest to Medora)

• North Unit

• Elkhorn Ranch Unit

The South Unit is the area most visitors explore first and is where we spent most of our time.

The park was named after President Theodore Roosevelt, who fell in love with the area while ranching here in the 1880s. He once said that he “would not have been President had it not been for his experience in North Dakota.”

Best Time to Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The best months to visit are:

• May through October

• September is especially beautiful with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

• Summer offers the best wildlife viewing and full access to scenic drives and trails

If you visit in winter, expect snow-covered landscapes and a much quieter experience.

We personally loved visiting during warmer weather because the wildlife was incredibly active and the views were stunning.

Things to Do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

1. Drive the Scenic Loop Road

One of the absolute best ways to experience the park is by driving the scenic loop through the South Unit.

The views constantly change as you wind through:

• colorful badlands

• rolling hills

• prairie landscapes

• overlooks

• wildlife viewing areas

There are numerous pull-offs where you can stop for photos and take in the scenery.

This drive alone is worth the trip.

2. Watch for Wildlife

The wildlife here is incredible.

During our visit we saw:

• wild horses

• bison

• prairie dogs

• deer

• longhorn cattle

The park is one of the best places in the Midwest to see bison roaming freely.

One of the coolest experiences was seeing wild horses grazing against the backdrop of the badlands. It felt surreal.

Important Wildlife Tips

• Stay at least 25 yards away from wildlife

• Stay at least 100 yards from bison and horses

• Never feed animals

• Use pullouts instead of stopping in the road

3. Visit the Painted Canyon Overlook

The Painted Canyon Overlook is one of the most photographed spots in the park — and for good reason.

The panoramic views of the layered badlands are absolutely breathtaking.

This is also a great stop if you’re short on time because it’s easily accessible right off Interstate 94.

Sunrise and sunset here are especially beautiful.

4. Explore Medora

Medora is the charming western-style town located right outside the South Unit entrance.

It’s small, walkable, and full of personality.

Things to do in Medora:

• shop downtown boutiques

• grab ice cream or coffee

• visit local restaurants

• attend the famous Medora Musical

• explore cowboy-inspired shops

• enjoy the western atmosphere

Medora makes the perfect home base while visiting the park.

5. Hike One of the Scenic Trails

There are several great hiking trails throughout the park depending on your experience level.

Popular hikes include:

Wind Canyon Trail

A short and easy trail with incredible views overlooking the Little Missouri River.

Ridgeline Trail

One of the best hikes for panoramic badlands views.

Buck Hill

A quick climb to one of the highest viewpoints in the South Unit.

Petrified Forest Loop

A longer hike where you can see ancient petrified wood.

Even if you’re not a huge hiker, there are plenty of short scenic walks that still offer amazing views.

6. Visit the Prairie Dog Towns

The prairie dog towns are such a fun stop inside the park.

You’ll hear them chirping before you even see them.

Watching them pop in and out of their burrows is honestly entertaining for both adults and kids.

Just remember:

• don’t feed them

• stay on designated areas

• keep a respectful distance

7. Stay for Sunset

Sunset in Theodore Roosevelt National Park is unreal.

As the sun drops lower, the badlands begin glowing with shades of orange, pink, and gold.

It’s one of those places where you truly want to slow down and soak everything in.

If you can, plan at least one evening inside the park.

Where to Stay Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Most visitors stay in Medora.

Some options include:

• western-style lodges

• hotels

• cabins

• campgrounds

• RV parks

If you love camping, the park also has campgrounds inside both the North and South Units.

What to Pack for Theodore Roosevelt National Park

A few essentials:

• comfortable walking shoes

• sunscreen

• sunglasses

• water bottles

• snacks

• binoculars for wildlife

• camera

• layers (weather changes quickly)

Cell service can also be limited in parts of the park, so download maps ahead of time.

Tips for Visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park

• Start early for the best wildlife viewing

• Fill up on gas before entering the park

• Bring plenty of water

• Give yourself at least a full day to explore

• Don’t rush the scenic drive — there are so many beautiful stops

• Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photos

Is Theodore Roosevelt National Park Worth Visiting?

Absolutely.

It’s one of the most underrated national parks in the United States.

The combination of scenic drives, wildlife, peaceful landscapes, and western charm makes it such a unique destination — especially if you love road trips, nature, photography, or exploring hidden gems in the Midwest.

It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

And if you pair it with a stay in Medora, it makes for an unforgettable getaway.

Final Thoughts

Our visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park completely exceeded our expectations. Between the stunning badlands, roaming wildlife, scenic overlooks, and charming town of Medora, it’s truly one of the most unique places to visit in the Midwest.

If you’ve been looking for a road trip destination that feels adventurous without the overwhelming crowds of some larger national parks, this is your sign to go.

Trust us…you’ll leave already wanting to come back.