Theodore Roosevelt National Park

About

Theodore Roosevelt National Park preserves over 70,000 acres of stunning North Dakota badlands, the same terrain that captivated a young Theodore Roosevelt and shaped his conservation legacy. Split into three units - North, South, and the Elkhorn Ranch - the park offers dramatic canyon walls, colorful rock formations, and wide-open prairie that feels like stepping back in time.

Wildlife is one of the park's greatest draws. Bison herds roam freely across the grasslands, wild horses gallop through the South Unit, and prairie dogs pop up from their towns along the roadside. Elk, mule deer, and coyotes are common sights, especially during early morning or evening drives.

The South Unit's 36-mile Scenic Loop Drive is the most popular way to experience the park, with pullouts and overlooks offering sweeping views of the painted canyons below. The North Unit features a 14-mile scenic drive that winds along the Little Missouri River, ending at the Oxbow Overlook with panoramic views of the badlands. Both drives are fully paved and accessible by standard vehicles.

Hiking options range from short, accessible paths to rugged backcountry trails. The Little Mo Nature Trail near the South Unit Visitor Center is a favorite for its gentle terrain and river views. For those wanting more challenge, the park connects to the 144-mile Maah Daah Hey Trail stretching across western North Dakota.

Three visitor centers provide exhibits, park films, and ranger-led programs. The historic Maltese Cross Cabin, Roosevelt's original Dakota Territory home, sits behind the South Unit Visitor Center and is open for tours. The park is open year-round, though some roads may close seasonally. Summer brings long days and wildflowers, while fall offers golden cottonwoods and fewer crowds.

Accessibility

All three park visitor centers are wheelchair accessible, including the historic Maltese Cross Cabin. Park films shown at the North and South Unit Visitor Centers offer closed captioning for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing.

The South Unit's Cottonwood Campground has four accessible campsites and two ADA-compliant restrooms. The Roundup Horse Camp offers accessible toilets and a picnic pavilion. In the North Unit, Juniper Campground provides two accessible campsites and two ADA-compliant restrooms, with the group campsite also featuring accessible restrooms. Picnic areas in both units have accessible restrooms and pavilions.

Both scenic drives feature wheelchair accessible pullouts and overlooks. The South Unit Scenic Loop Drive has an accessible restroom near the road to Buck Hill (roughly midway around the loop) and another at the Halliday Well Trailhead. The North Unit Scenic Drive does not have roadside restrooms, but facilities are available at Juniper Campground and the nearby picnic area.

The Little Mo Nature Trail is rated as wheelchair-friendly and provides a gentle path near the South Unit. Several overlook paths throughout the park are designed for wheelchair access, offering views of the badlands without requiring strenuous hiking.

For the most current accessibility information, including seasonal changes and any temporary closures, contact the park directly at 701-623-4466 or visit the National Park Service website. Rangers are available at visitor centers to help plan an accessible visit tailored to your needs.

More accessible places in North Dakota

• Chateau de Mores State Historic Site (Medora)
• Medora Musical (Medora)
• Fargo Air Museum (Fargo)
• Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site (Williston)
• Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site (Stanton)
• Bonanzaville USA (West Fargo)