National Park Theodore Roosevelt
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in North Dakota and is named after the 26th president of the United States, who was an avid outdoorsman and conservationist.
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Summary
It is composed of three separate units, the North Unit, South Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch Unit.
One of the main reasons to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park is to see the unique landscape of the Badlands, which is characterized by colorful rock formations, rugged terrain, and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can also hike, camp, and horseback ride throughout the park.
Some specific points of interest within the park include the Painted Canyon Visitor Center, which offers stunning views of the Badlands, and the Maltese Cross Cabin, which was built by Theodore Roosevelt during his time in North Dakota. There are also several scenic drives, such as the 36-mile loop road through the South Unit.
Interesting facts about Theodore Roosevelt National Park include that it is home to a large population of bison, which were nearly extinct in the early 20th century, and that it was established as a national park in 1978.
The best time of year to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park is in the summer, when temperatures are mild and the weather is generally sunny. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden thunderstorms and fluctuating temperatures. Spring and fall are also good times to visit, as the park is less crowded and the foliage is changing. Winter can be harsh, with cold temperatures and snow, but it does offer a unique experience for visitors who are prepared for the conditions.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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Wilderness Theodore Roosevelt