Hey there! Are you ready to plan an exciting trip to Theodore Roosevelt National Park?! Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery that inspired a president to leave a legacy of conservation! You are sure to find something here that everyone in your group will LOVE.
Theodore Roosevelt is a place unlike any other — and likely somewhere you will talk about for years to come. Every bit of this land feels wild and untamed, from the winding river to the rowdy bison! And with a captivating history, this magical park will leave you speechless.
There is so much to do. You may have already looked at a map and been a little overwhelmed — and eager — to make sure that you don’t miss the best sights.
I’m a former park ranger, and I’ll help you plan your vacation down to the details. I’ve extensively explored Theodore Roosevelt National Park and am here to help! Whether this is your first time to the area, or if you are returning after many years and would like to be reintroduced to the park, this list of 8 things is for you.
What You Need to Know About Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- This park is divided into three units: North, South, and Elkhorn Ranch. The thing is, they are located in different time zones! South and Elkhorn are in Mountain Time. Jump ahead an hour if you’re headed to the North Unit…it’s in Central Time. Keep that in mind if you are traveling between the units.
- Get to know the man behind the name before you visit! Learn more about Teddy Roosevelt’s time in North Dakota and the significance of it here.
- There are no lodges and no restaurants in the park. The North Unit and South Unit each have their own campground if you’re hoping to stay in the park. To make reservations or to learn more about your options, click here.
- The gateway town of Medora is a quaint historical place with lots to do, and you’ll drive right through town to access the South Unit of the park. The Medora Musical and its accompanying Pitchfork Steak Fondue is a big deal out here!
- North Dakota is notorious for its violent summer thunderstorms. Be in the know by watching the weather forecast and having an app on your phone that will send you weather alerts for the area if needed.
I’ll make sure that you don’t miss the most popular sights, but I also want to provide a few treasures that are off the beaten path as well. Let the adventure begin!
Click NEXT to see this awesome list of 8 things you can’t miss on your first visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park!
Hi Ash!
Do you recommend a particular place to stay in Medora for a couple nights or is it all chain hotels etc? Which is also totally fine, I just always use your lodging guide recommendations, which are amazing, so I didn’t know if you had a particular rec for this park. We are planning a trip here next July along with your five day itinerary to the South Dakota parks. Can’t wait! Thanks so much! -Annalyn
We usually camp in our travel trailer, but last year we took a quick last-minute trip and stayed in the AmericInn. It was fine…nothing fancy. But one of the nicer hotels in town :) Roughriders would be good too!
Awesome thank you!
Excellent article and will use the contents as I plan our trip to the Park this coming September.
Dan
Thank you!
Thank you for this wonderful article. I plan to be passing thru Medora soon. I was looking for some info on the park and this article helped.
That’s great! Have fun in Medora!