Experience the beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a breathtaking expanse brimming with wildlife, diverse landscapes, and rich history, dedicated to preserving the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt.
**Travel Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Exploring North Dakota's Natural Wonders**
Nestled in the heart of westcentral North Dakota, **Theodore Roosevelt National Park** offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the North Dakota badlands. With its two distinct units - the North and South Units - the park is easily accessible by car from various directions, and the closest major airport is the Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK).
**Getting There**
If you choose to fly into **Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK)**, you'll find it approximately 41 miles from the park. To reach the North Unit, take ND-22 North and then US-85 North, with the journey taking around 40-45 minutes. For the South Unit, head north on ND-22 and west on US-12, a drive of around 1 hour 15 minutes.
Alternatively, **Bismarck Airport (BIS)** offers more flight options but is located about a 2-hour 10-minute drive from the park. To reach the South Unit, take US-83 North and US-12 West, while for the North Unit, continue north on US-83 and then take US-85 North.
**Exploring the Park**
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, elk, mule and white-tailed deer, pronghorn antelope, prairie dogs, coyote, and a variety of birds such as golden eagles. The Little Missouri River, which has shaped the park over time, flows through both units.
The North Unit is near Watford City, ND, while the South Unit is located near Medora, ND. The Painted Canyon Visitor Center, seven miles east of Medora, is a must-visit for its stunning views and informative exhibits.
Both visitor centers, located in Watford City and Medora respectively, provide valuable information and resources for visitors. The park's roads are open to cyclists, but off-road cycling is not permitted.
**Camping and Accessibility**
The park offers campgrounds in both the North and South Units. Accessibility features include accessible visitor centers, wayside exhibits, campground amphitheaters, the Maltese Cross Cabin, and accessible campsites.
**Visitation and History**
The park's visitation is highest in June, July, and August, and is increasing during the shoulder seasons of May and September. Theodore Roosevelt National Park was first established as a Memorial Park in 1947 and gained National Park status in 1978.
The park holds significant historical value for the United States, as it was during his time in North Dakota that Theodore Roosevelt had an experience that he believed was instrumental in his becoming President. Roosevelt first visited the park in 1883 and returned multiple times over the next few years.
In conclusion, Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and history, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Whether you choose to fly into Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK) for convenience or Bismarck Airport (BIS) for more flight options, the park's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await your discovery.
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park, nestled in westcentral North Dakota, invites visitors to explore its breathtaking badlands.
- The park boasts two distinct units - the North and South Units, easily accessible by car from various directions.
- The Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK), located about 41 miles from the park, is the closest major airport.
- alternative Airport, Bismarck Airport (BIS), offers more flight options but is about a 2-hour 10-minute drive from the park.
- The North Unit can be reached using ND-22 North and US-85 North, while the South Unit requires heading north on ND-22 and west on US-12.
- The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, elk, and various bird species like golden eagles.
- The Little Missouri River, flowing through both units, has shaped the park's landscape over time.
- Visitors should check out the Painted Canyon Visitor Center east of Medora for stunning views and informative exhibits.
- Both visitor centers in Watford City and Medora offer valuable information and resources for park-goers.
- The park offers campgrounds with accessible facilities in both the North and South Units.
- The park's visitation peaks in June, July, and August, but is increasing during the shoulder seasons of May and September.
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park was established as a Memorial Park in 1947 and gained National Park status in 1978.
- This park carries historical significance, as it was essential in shaping Roosevelt's political career, with his first visit dating back to 1883.
