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Theodore Roosevelt National Park Travel Guide
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Itinerary: North & South Unit Guide
Visitors planning a trip to Theodore Roosevelt National Park will discover one of the most underrated national parks in the United States. Located in western North Dakota, the park is divided into two main sections — the South Unit near Medora and the more remote North Unit near Watford City. Together, they offer dramatic badlands landscapes, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and peaceful outdoor experiences.
Here are some of the top things to do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park:
• Drive the South Unit Scenic Loop Drive
This scenic route winds through colorful badlands, prairie landscapes, and wildlife areas where visitors often spot bison, wild horses, prairie dogs, and elk.
• Explore the North Unit Scenic Drive
The North Unit is quieter and more rugged, with dramatic overlooks, winding roads, and fewer crowds than the South Unit.
• Visit Painted Canyon Overlook
One of the most iconic viewpoints in the park, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• See Wild Horses and Bison
The park is known for its abundant wildlife and open prairie landscapes.
• Hike Through the Badlands
Popular trails include Wind Canyon Trail, Caprock Coulee Trail, and Ridgeline Trail.
• Explore Medora, North Dakota
A charming western-style town near the South Unit entrance with restaurants, shops, and live entertainment.
Because the park is spread across two units, driving is the best way to explore both areas.
Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park With Self-Guided Driving Tours
One of the best ways to experience Theodore Roosevelt National Park is through self-guided driving tours that bring the landscape and history to life as you explore.
🚗 Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit Driving Tour
Highlights include:
• Scenic overlooks with sweeping badlands views
• Wildlife viewing opportunities
• Stories about Theodore Roosevelt’s connection to the region
• Remote landscapes and hidden viewpoints
The North Unit offers a quieter and more untouched national park experience.
🚗 Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit Scenic Drive Adventure
This self-guided driving tour explores the park’s most visited area — the South Unit near Medora.
Highlights include:
• The South Unit Scenic Loop Drive
• Painted Canyon Overlook
• Wildlife viewing areas with bison and wild horses
• Historic and geological stories about the Badlands
As you drive, your phone automatically plays stories based on your location, turning your road trip into an immersive national park experience.
Why Take a Self-Guided Driving Tour?
• Start anytime — no reservations or schedules
• Stop at scenic overlooks and hikes whenever you want
• Learn about the park while driving
• Explore both units at your own pace
These tours are one of the best ways to fully experience Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
What's Free and What has a Fee
What’s Free and What Has a Fee
Free Things to Do
Many of the best experiences in Theodore Roosevelt National Park are included with park entry.
• Scenic drives
• Wildlife viewing
• Scenic overlooks
• Ranger programs
Attractions With Fees
• National park entrance fee
• Guided experiences and events
How to Get Here
How to Get There
The park is located in western North Dakota.
South Unit
Closest town:
• Medora, ND
North Unit
Closest town:
• Watford City, ND
By Car
Driving times:
• Bismarck — about 2.5 hours
• Fargo — about 5 hours
Driving is essential for exploring the park.
Where to Stay
Hotels Near the South Unit (Medora)
Typical price range: $120–$300 per night
• Rough Riders Hotel – Historic hotel in downtown Medora
• Badlands Motel
• AmericInn by Wyndham Medora
Hotels Near the North Unit
Typical price range: $100–$220 per night
• Little Missouri Inn & Suites (Watford City)
• Teddy’s Residential Suites
• Roosevelt Inn & Suites
Camping Options
Typical price range: $20–$60 per night
• Cottonwood Campground (South Unit)
• Juniper Campground (North Unit)
When to Visit
Best Time to Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Summer
• best access to all roads and trails
• peak wildlife viewing season
Fall (Best Time to Visit)
• cooler temperatures
• fewer crowds
• beautiful prairie colors
Spring
• active wildlife
• mild weather
Winter
• peaceful and snow-covered landscapes
• some seasonal road closures
Fall is often considered the best time to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
How Much Time You'll Need
Theodore Roosevelt National Park One Day Itinerary
Morning
• Drive South Unit Scenic Loop
• Stop at overlooks and wildlife areas
Afternoon
• Explore Medora
• Short hike or scenic trail
Evening
• Sunset at Painted Canyon
2 Day Theodore Roosevelt National Park Itinerary
Day 1:
• Explore the South Unit
• Scenic drives and wildlife viewing
Day 2:
• Drive the North Unit
• Hike scenic trails and overlooks
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Hiking
The park offers scenic hiking opportunities in both units.
Popular Trails
• Wind Canyon Trail – short scenic overlook trail
• Caprock Coulee Trail – known for prairie dog towns and wildlife
• Ridgeline Trail – dramatic badlands scenery
Hiking ranges from easy scenic walks to longer backcountry routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you visit both the North and South Units?
Yes. Each unit offers a very different experience and scenery.
What is the best time to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
Fall offers cooler weather and fewer crowds, while summer provides full access.
How many days do you need?
Most visitors spend 1–2 days exploring both units.
What animals can you see?
Bison, wild horses, prairie dogs, elk, and bighorn sheep are commonly seen.