Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Published Guide and Resource Collection

Badlands wilderness honoring Roosevelt's formative years in the Dakota Territories

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park captures the essence of the American badlands and the historical significance of one of America's most conservation-minded presidents. The park's three units, while geographically separated, share the common thread of Roosevelt's personal connection to this landscape and the ongoing preservation of its natural and cultural values. The South Unit, the largest and most accessible, sits immediately adjacent to Interstate 94 and serves as the primary entrance point for most visitors, featuring the Painted Canyon Visitor Center, the restored Maltese Cross Cabin, and extensive scenic drives that traverse the colorful terrain. The North Unit, accessible via U.S. Route 85 near Watford City, offers a more remote experience with similarly impressive badlands scenery and the Juniper campground. The Elkhorn Ranch Unit, situated between the two main units and accessible only by rough gravel roads, preserves the remote site where Roosevelt established his second ranch operation, with only the foundation of the original ranch house remaining today. The Maah Daah Hey Trail, stretching over 130 miles, provides hikers and equestrians the opportunity to traverse the length of the park system, connecting all three units through some of the most scenic backcountry in the region.