Explore detailed info of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, or check out our expanded coverage of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park area, including Theodore Roosevelt National Park lodging, recreational activities, and more.
Contact Info
PO Box 7
Medora, ND 58645
- Phone:
- 701-623-4466
- Phone:
- 701-842-2333
Basics
- Type:
- Other
Description
Theodore Roosevelt first came to the badlands in September 1883 on a hunting trip. While here he became interested in the cattle business and invested in the Maltese Cross Ranch. He returned the next year and established the Elkhorn Ranch. Years later he stated several times, "I never would have been President if it had not been for my experiences in North Dakota."
Hours + Fees
Hours:
The park is open all year and 24 hours a day.
VISITOR CENTERS:
South Unit Visitor Center
Open all year 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MT
Plus mid June to Labor Day - 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. MT Monday-Thursday
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. MT Friday-Sunday
Closures - Thanksgiving Day(4th Thursday in November), Christmas Day (December 25), and New Year's Day (January 1)
Painted Canyon Visitor Center
Open from April 1 to mid-June 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m MT
Open from mid-June to Labor Day 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. MT
Open from Labor Day to mid-November 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 MT
North Unit Visitor Center
Open all year 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 CT
Closures - Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. From October through May, the visitor center may be closed some weekdays and for short periods during any day for lunch and emergencies.
CAMPGROUNDS
Cottonwood Campground
Open all year. Limited services from October 1 to mid-May
Juniper Campground
Open all year. Limited services from October 1 to mid-May
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
The North and South units are in western North Dakota.
The South Unit entrance and South Unit (Medora) Visitor Center are located in Medora, just off Interstate 94 (exits 23 & 27) and is 135 miles west of Bismarck, North Dakota.
The Painted Canyon Visitor Center is located 7 miles east of Medora just off I-94 at exit 32.
The North Unit entrance is located 16 miles south of Watford City along U.S. Highway 85. The distance between Medora at the South Unit and the North Unit is 70 miles via I-94 and U. S. Highway 85.
