Overview
Theodore Roosevelt protects 110 square miles of North Dakota badlands where bison still roam the same coulees that shaped a future president's conservation vision. The 36-mile Scenic Loop Drive delivers big wildlife encounters — expect to see bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs without leaving your car. The park sees 733K visitors annually but feels uncrowded (congestion index 6.6/10) because most traffic concentrates on the paved loop. The trade-off: Summer heat regularly hits 100°F, and there's zero shade. April offers the sweet spot of mild weather and newborn bison calves.
Skip the crowded Painted Canyon overlook and drive straight to the South Unit's Skyline Vista Trail at sunrise. This 0.6-mile loop sits above the Little Missouri River and delivers the park's best light on the eroded clay towers. You'll have it to yourself while tour buses idle 20 miles away.
When to Go
The sweet spot is May — good weather meets manageable crowds. Peak season hits in July.
Peak wildflowers and newborn bison. Comfortable weather before summer heat. This is the best month—expect moderate crowds.
Monthly crowd levels — click a month for details
How Busy Is It?
How Theodore Roosevelt compares to all 62 national parks
Busier than 69% of national parks
Above AverageMore crowded trails than 62% of parks
Above AverageHigher campsite pressure than 58% of parks
Above AverageNotable Trails
Theodore Roosevelt has more trail mileage than 35% of national parks, with 50 miles across 35 maintained trails.
The difficulty split leans moderate to strenuous — only 29% of trails are rated easy.
Explore the Cannonball Concretions
Hike the Painted Canyon Nature Trail
Hike Coal Vein Trail
Hike The Little Mo Nature Trail
Start early — Theodore Roosevelt's most popular trailheads fill up by mid-morning in peak season.
Camping
3 campgrounds with 127 total sites. All sites require reservations.
Top Activities
Theodore Roosevelt excels at 7 of 17 activity types — here are the standouts rated 7/10 or higher.
Scenic Driving
9/10Scenic Loop Drive offers 36 miles of badlands scenery with pullouts and wildlife viewing opportunities
Wildlife Viewing
9/10Bison herds, elk, wild horses, mule deer, and over 200 bird species throughout the park
Photography
9/10Exceptional landscape and wildlife photography opportunities, especially at sunrise/sunset
Hiking
8/1050+ miles of trails ranging from easy prairie walks to strenuous backcountry routes through badlands
Bird Watching
8/10Over 200 bird species including golden eagles, prairie falcons, and great blue herons
Stargazing
8/10Excellent dark skies for stargazing, especially in remote areas of the park
Ranger Programs
7/10Ranger talks, interpretive programs, and guided walks focusing on history, wildlife, and conservation
Who It's For
Planning Your Trip
Getting There
Nearest city: Bismarck, ND (140 mi). Fly into BIS.
In-Park Services
No gas in park · No lodging in park · Cell: limited
Gateway Town
Medora, ND — full amenities
Stories
Road Trips
Theodore Roosevelt is a stop on this road trip:
Compare Theodore Roosevelt
See how Theodore Roosevelt stacks up against other national parks — crowds, trails, and more.
Compare Theodore RooseveltFrequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
The best month to visit Theodore Roosevelt is May, based on a balance of weather, crowds, and accessibility. Peak visitation is in July. The park has 5 comfortable months for visiting.
How crowded is Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
Theodore Roosevelt is crowded, with a congestion index of 6.6/10. The park receives 733K visitors annually across 110 square miles.
How many trails does Theodore Roosevelt National Park have?
Theodore Roosevelt has 50 miles of trails across 10 easy, 20 moderate, and 5 strenuous routes. Popular trails include Painted Canyon Trail, Theodore Roosevelt Nature Trail, Petrified Forest Loop Trail.
Can you camp at Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
Yes, Theodore Roosevelt has 3 campgrounds with 127 total sites. Some sites are available first-come, first-served.
Is Theodore Roosevelt National Park open year-round?
Yes, Theodore Roosevelt is open year-round, though some roads and facilities may close seasonally. The park's climate is classified as semi_arid_grassland.