Theodore Roosevelt National Park

When Theodore Roosevelt came to Dakota Territory to hunt bison in 1883, he was a skinny, young, spectacled dude from New York. He could not have imagined how his adventure in this remote and unfamiliar place would forever alter the course of the nation. The rugged landscape and strenuous life that TR experienced here would help shape a conservation policy that we still benefit from today.

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WEATHER INFO

In winter, some or all park roads may be closed due to snow.

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DIRECTIONS INFO

Oslo, Minnesota

6.6 hr

Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in the Badlands of western North Dakota. There are three units to the park. The South Unit entrance is in the town of Medora, ND off of Interstate 94 exits 24 and 27. The North Unit entrance is on Highway 85 approximately 14 miles south of Watford City, ND. The remote Elkhorn Ranch Unit sits roughly in the middle of the North and South Units and is accessed via gravel roads. Consult park staff for directions to the Elkhorn Ranch Unit.

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CAUTION

North Unit Bison Roundup

October 18–23, 2026, the National Park Service will conduct helicopter bison roundup operations in the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Bison may cross the scenic drive during herding, causing temporary traffic delays. Up to 100 bison will be transferred live to Tribes. These operations help maintain bison numbers in line with available resources and support healthy ecological relationships.

INFORMATION

Theodore Roosevelt National Park moves to cashless fee collection

Starting May 1, Theodore Roosevelt National Park will accept only credit cards, debit cards, or digital payments for entrance fees, campground fees, and Interagency Passes. Cash and check payments will no longer be accepted.

INFORMATION

South Unit Address for Mobile Maps – Theodore Roosevelt NP

On all maps used on mobile devices, use the following address to reach the South Unit Visitor Center and Entrance Station 201 East River Road N. Medora, ND 58645

INFORMATION

Petrified Forest Trailhead Access Update: Use Approved Route

Directions to the Petrified Forest trailhead have changed. Please use the approved legal route from I-94, Exit 10 toward Camels Hump Lake and follow the clearly marked posts. This update helps maintain good cooperation with neighbors and respect park boundaries. For precise directions, use the link provided.

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Theodore Roosevelt National Park