North Dakota's Only National Park Boasts Unique Landscapes And Scenic Wildlife

North Dakota is far off the radar for many travelers; in addition to being one of the last-visited states of many, it is also one of the least-visited states in America, having just over 26 million total visitors in 2024. Even though North Dakota has few visitors, there is plenty of adventure to be had (and few crowds) at the state's only national park in the magical Badlands of western North Dakota, one of National Geographic's must-visit regions for 2026. Here, the Little Missouri River meanders between rocky bluffs perched above a beautiful spectrum of colors surrounding unspoiled landscapes and wildlife. 

The magical area of the Badlands holds the distinction of having the only national park named in honor of one of America's greatest conservationists, President Theodore Roosevelt. At the age of 24, a young, gangly Theodore Roosevelt came to the Dakota Territory to hunt buffalo. His experiences led him to later protect over 230 million acres of public land, create the U.S. Forest Service, and lay the foundation for the future National Park Service as President of the United States.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is easily accessible for travelers driving along Interstate 94. Approximately 145 miles west of Bismarck and the nearest major airport, you'll find the stunning Painted Canyon Visitor Center and scenic overlook. At this free section of the park, stretch your legs and look out over the wide expanse of the park's magnificent landscapes. Nearby, you'll find the short Painted Canyon Nature Trail loop, where you can take your mind off the road and soak in the scenic natural beauty, and maybe even see bison. The nearby visitors center also has restrooms and a small gift shop. Don't forget to fill up your water bottles here.

If you're ready to take a break from miles of road signs, exit the interstate at Medora and enter the South Unit of the park for 48 miles of breathtaking views along the aptly named Scenic Loop Drive, which snakes through the park, giving you a taste of the rugged American West. All vehicles visiting parts of the park other than the Painted Canyon Overlook are required to pay a $15 entrance fee. Be sure to fill your tank beforehand as you won't find any gas stations once inside.

While the landscapes are gorgeous, the park stands out for the abundance of wildlife and friendly rangers who want to help you find it for priceless memories and perfect photos from a distance. Within the South Unit of the park, you'll likely see bison, mule deer, and wild horses, along with hundreds of black-tailed prairie dogs near the road. Roosevelt noted that where you'll find prairie dogs, you'll likely find predators, including badgers, falcons, and snakes. Be careful to keep your distance from the animals and don't give them anything to eat.

The park's quieter North Unit is centered around a spectacularly beautiful 14-mile road passing the eroded cliffs above the Missouri River. Get up close and personal with the views at the stunning River Bend Overlook and iconic Oxbow Overlook. Travelers looking to go further off the beaten path in the park (or fans of President Roosevelt) shouldn't miss visiting the remote Elkhorn Ranch Unit, the site of Roosevelt's ranch, where, for years, he worked through the grief of losing his mother and wife on the same day.

North Dakota may be overlooked when it comes to hiking; it's ranked as the worst state to hike in the U.S. Don't take the ranking too seriously, especially in this park where trails can get you up close and personal with the rugged territory that gave Theodore Roosevelt inspiration. Most of the 19 trails in the park are less than a couple of miles long, including the paved Little Mo Trail that meanders around the Little Missouri River, and the beautiful 1.6-mile round-trip Caprock Coulee Nature Trail, where you'll see diverse vegetation and rock formations. For a more strenuous hike, continue on for a few more miles, where you'll be rewarded with some of the best views in the park. In the winter months, strap on your snowshoes or skis and blaze your own trail through the winter wonderland.

In nearby Medora, you'll find country cooking at its best, including biscuits and gravy and gooey caramel rolls at the Cowboy Cafe and tender elk and bison burgers at the Little Missouri Saloon and Dining Room. Some establishments in the town are named after Roosevelt, including the Rough Riders Hotel, its bar, and restaurant. Soon, another place in town will have TR's name on it. The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is under construction in Medora and will be opening for the Fourth of July holiday in 2026. Though you can explore much of the park in a few days, don't head for the state line just yet. North Dakota's most unique, art-filled drive is less than an hour away.