Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora: Address, Phone Number, Theodore Roosevelt National Park Reviews: 4.5/5
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
4.5
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Top ways to experience nearby attractions
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
14 within 3 miles
Theodore's Dining Room
406
1.2 mi$$$$ • American • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
Cowboy Cafe
414
1.2 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Cafe • Diner
Badlands Pizza Parlor
317
1.2 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Pizza • Vegetarian Friendly
Farmhouse Cafe
172
1.4 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Cafe • Vegetarian Friendly
Hidden Springs Java
40
1.3 mi$$ - $$$
Medora Fudge and Ice Cream Depot
124
1.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Dessert
Medora Gospel Brunch
32
1.3 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Vegetarian Friendly
Boots Bar & Grill
489
1.4 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Pub
Little Missouri Dining Room & Saloon
374
1.3 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Pub
TR's Tavern
8
1.2 miAmerican • Pub
Attractions
12 within 6 miles
South Unit
263
1.2 miHistoric Walking Areas • National Parks
Chateau de Mores State Historic Site
186
1.5 miHistoric Sites • History Museums
Old Town Hall Theater
77
1.3 miTheaters
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame
122
1.3 miSpeciality Museums
Harold Schafer Heritage Center
47
1.2 miHistory Museums
Billings County Court House Museum
26
1.2 miSpeciality Museums
Maltese Cross Cabin
6
1.1 miHistoric Sites
Von Hoffman House
11
1.3 miHistoric Sites
Peaceful Valley
14
2 miValleys
Petrified Forest Loop
56
Scenic Drives
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,840 reviews
Excellent
1,441
Very good
332
Average
51
Poor
9
Terrible
7
theoljohnnyboy
New Florence, PA1,365 contributions
This review needs to be split into two parts:
1. South unit of TRNP: 5/5. Well kept, amazing overlooks, easy trails, great little town nearby. Currently a portion of the loop road is closed. Entry is around $30 per vehicle. We saw a couple dozen horses, 100-200 bison, a few pronghorns, prarie dogs and deer over our 2 days at the park. The south unit also offers a number of tremendous sunset overlooks. There are multiple visitor centers.
2. North unit of TRNP: 3/5: It is about 60 miles north of the south unit and feels a bit forgotten. The roads are in need of repair- this is the primary reason. New restrooms along the scenic drive will be opening soon. It seemed to be much drier (less vibrant) here than at the Southern unit. We did see quite a few Bison in the few hours that we were there. The cannonball concretions are a unique sight to see.
Both end of the park are quiet parks- however the northern unit is very very quiet with seemingly very few visitors. In 2 days we drove the south units scenic drive 2x, stopped at all pull offs, did 4 short trails, and did the Northern Units scenic drive and pull offs. Take your time to enjoy this park, go to the northern end if you wish but keep expectations for that area in check.
1. South unit of TRNP: 5/5. Well kept, amazing overlooks, easy trails, great little town nearby. Currently a portion of the loop road is closed. Entry is around $30 per vehicle. We saw a couple dozen horses, 100-200 bison, a few pronghorns, prarie dogs and deer over our 2 days at the park. The south unit also offers a number of tremendous sunset overlooks. There are multiple visitor centers.
2. North unit of TRNP: 3/5: It is about 60 miles north of the south unit and feels a bit forgotten. The roads are in need of repair- this is the primary reason. New restrooms along the scenic drive will be opening soon. It seemed to be much drier (less vibrant) here than at the Southern unit. We did see quite a few Bison in the few hours that we were there. The cannonball concretions are a unique sight to see.
Both end of the park are quiet parks- however the northern unit is very very quiet with seemingly very few visitors. In 2 days we drove the south units scenic drive 2x, stopped at all pull offs, did 4 short trails, and did the Northern Units scenic drive and pull offs. Take your time to enjoy this park, go to the northern end if you wish but keep expectations for that area in check.
Written June 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
okeedoke
washington state1,840 contributions
Well, well! We have found another hidden gem of the National Park system. We found TR National Park to include critters and fowl by the score, scenics to beat the band...the works! I'm sure it helped that we visited in April, and so had many trails and pullouts all to ourselves. We were the only visitors to the phenomenal petrified forest and other trail sights. The southern unit seems to have the critters and the northern unit the speculator views. We preferred the beauty of the northern unit...and we strongly recommend you travel the 60 miles north of Medora to visit that jewel. Thank you, National Park Service...you've got a gem on your hands!
Written May 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ems_jls
Marlboro, NJ103 contributions
Photographs don't really capture the feel of this park but once you are there it makes a real impression. The badlands are stunning in the sudden appearance next to all the prairie farm and ranch lands. The bison, wild horses, and prairie dog towns are readily spotted and very rewarding. Allow more time on the South Loop Drive than you might think, since a) there are lots of turnoffs and short side trail hikes to take and b) the road is blocked near the end and you have to go back the way you came rather than doing a full loop.
I also went back by myself at night for a view of the stars in the darkness. Very rewarding also but takes a little nerve once the car lights are out and the coyotes are doing their howls!
(Can't speak to the North Unit, only went to South Unit and the Painted Canyon overlook.)
I also went back by myself at night for a view of the stars in the darkness. Very rewarding also but takes a little nerve once the car lights are out and the coyotes are doing their howls!
(Can't speak to the North Unit, only went to South Unit and the Painted Canyon overlook.)
Written September 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Tina C
Hood River, OR15 contributions
Go in sunny but not hot weather, past the busy summer tourism season, and you'll find yourself in a spectacularly beautiful place. My favorite US national parlk, or at least tying with Glacier. Fall colors were coming on when we went; even better might be the last week of Sept or first 1-2 wks of October.
We took the main driving tour (had dogs so couldn't hike, really) and there were just a handful of cars on the road besides our own. Very relaxed. One fabulous view after another around every curve. We did walk the short Windy Canyon trail up for the top view, and it was definitely worth it (dogs left in the car).
Wildlife seen in 2 hrs: a bison, right beside our car, unperturbed my us; pronghorn deer; bighorn sheep; prairie dog town (really a city);wild horses. Terrific flora too.
We took the main driving tour (had dogs so couldn't hike, really) and there were just a handful of cars on the road besides our own. Very relaxed. One fabulous view after another around every curve. We did walk the short Windy Canyon trail up for the top view, and it was definitely worth it (dogs left in the car).
Wildlife seen in 2 hrs: a bison, right beside our car, unperturbed my us; pronghorn deer; bighorn sheep; prairie dog town (really a city);wild horses. Terrific flora too.
Written September 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Grussingtravels
Detroit Lakes, MN248 contributions
Family
The visitors center is open and you can get your cancellations!!!! Wooooooo! They provide social distancing in the center by only allowing so many people in at a time. So you may have to wait outside before entering. Our daughter did the junior ranger book and got her badge upon returning to the visitors center. None of the exhibits are open but you can still do hiking and sight seeing. We saw antelope, bison, wild horses and many different types of wild flowers and climbed on lots of rocks. This is a great park for kids they have lots of short hikes and the prairie dog towns are fun for kids to see.
Written July 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Tofurry
Renton, WA811 contributions
This was not going to be a stop for us but I am so glad we made the time to visit! We got there about a hour before the visitor center closed so we managed to go in and ask about the loop. We found out the loop isn't open in parts so we would have to turn around and come back the same way we came when we had seen enough.
We spent about an hr and a half driving the loop and saw so many bison and prairie dogs right by the road. The bison even stopped traffic while they stood around on the road. We also saw wild horses right near the road. A pair fought and almost ran into a car! Our dogs were quite interested in all of the wildlife. We saw a lot of people getting out of their cars and walking on paths but we didn't wander too far from our car. Well worth the $30 fee.
We spent about an hr and a half driving the loop and saw so many bison and prairie dogs right by the road. The bison even stopped traffic while they stood around on the road. We also saw wild horses right near the road. A pair fought and almost ran into a car! Our dogs were quite interested in all of the wildlife. We saw a lot of people getting out of their cars and walking on paths but we didn't wander too far from our car. Well worth the $30 fee.
Written June 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Johnny H.
Manassas, VA336 contributions
This is my second time visiting this National Park and will always be on my must-see list when I am in the area. It has one of the most scenic drives in the country. Lots of wildlife viewing in the area and excellent geological features to explore.
I highly recommend taking your time while driving through the park, not only so you can enjoy yourself, but also so you don't run over the prairie dogs that are all over the place.
I highly recommend taking your time while driving through the park, not only so you can enjoy yourself, but also so you don't run over the prairie dogs that are all over the place.
Written July 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Donna P
Morris, AL86 contributions
We had no expectations about this park except for what we read by other reviewers. We started with the North Unit which is doable in a day or less if necessary. The drive there is bucolic so we enjoyed that, and then portions of colorful fall canyons began to open up a few miles before we got to the park entrance itself. (There are several scenic overlooks along the way that are worthy of a stop.) Upon entering the park, the ranger told us to beware of the buffalo and prairie rattlers. Little did we know we would have exciting encounters with both! At our first stop along the 14 mile in and out road, a group of Native Americans were on a promontory chanting and playing drums during their prayer service. Later we saw several lone buffalo walk near the road. We took one of the short hiking trails, and heard a prairie rattler and then saw it even though it was well camouflaged as it moved through the grass. We saw and talked to several park rangers who were very friendly and knowledgeable. We found a wonderful picnic area and enjoyed a late lunch in the scenic beauty of cottonwood trees. On our way out of the park, the traffic slowed to see a herd of buffalo walking close to the road. Then the herd of 30-40 walked right beside our car and crossed to the other side of the road right in front of our car. They all took off running once they reached the other side of the road so it was exciting to see them so close! Since we were there in mid September, the trees were in their fall beauty. We never knew there could be so many shades of yellow!
We drove the same day to the South Unit, stopping by the Painted Canyon Overlook. It’s very important to see this place when the sun is either rising or setting on the rock faces. Otherwise, as it was with us, the rocks just looked gray because of the overcast sky. There is no admission to go here like there is within the parks. A few miles ahead in Medora is the South Unit of the park. We saw Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin where you can take a tour inside if you’ve registered in enough time, and several prairie dog towns. We didn’t go far into the park because portions of the road had been blocked off so we turned around and were treated to the sight of four wild horses trotting across a ridge. A large white stallion stopped and looked out over the valley for maybe ten seconds. If he had lifted his front leg and pointed it, I would have sworn the spirit of Crazy Horse had entered him!
We drove the same day to the South Unit, stopping by the Painted Canyon Overlook. It’s very important to see this place when the sun is either rising or setting on the rock faces. Otherwise, as it was with us, the rocks just looked gray because of the overcast sky. There is no admission to go here like there is within the parks. A few miles ahead in Medora is the South Unit of the park. We saw Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin where you can take a tour inside if you’ve registered in enough time, and several prairie dog towns. We didn’t go far into the park because portions of the road had been blocked off so we turned around and were treated to the sight of four wild horses trotting across a ridge. A large white stallion stopped and looked out over the valley for maybe ten seconds. If he had lifted his front leg and pointed it, I would have sworn the spirit of Crazy Horse had entered him!
Written October 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
LBinTX
Fort Worth, TX377 contributions
Part of a larger Wyoming and South Dakota trip, we were really glad we looped in Theodore Roosevelt (as opposed to Yellowstone, which is currently under water after their terrible flooding). This area of North Dakota is beautiful - rolling green hills that remind me of Wales. Then all of a sudden, you have much larger rock formations and canyons. It's stunning. The visitor center is very nice with a small display of the history of the area and Roosevelt's huge hand in all of our National Parks and why this location was chosen to be named for him. The short orientation video was also good and prepared us for our early morning trek into the park. We saw prairie dogs and several bison, including some crossing the road later in the day. It was disappointing to not be able to go around the entire loop, due to 4 miles of closed road. It was also sad to see such a nice area as the old Peaceful Valley Ranch closed down and with little to no information about it (we drove back in, seeing all the buildings and it was literally a ghost town - though you could see beautiful new renovation in the buildings). Apparently they are trying to decide what to do with the area that used to offer trail rides. There was an active coal seam burning while were were there - which was quite interesting. My son loved the idea that a brand new butte was forming right there! In the 48 mile round trip (24 out, 24 back), there was only one restroom available, so make sure everyone goes before leaving the visitor center! Overall, we weren't quite sure what to expect out of this park, but it made for a nice 4 hour drive with several small hikes to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Written June 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
FancyFree55
Florida7,461 contributions
We arrived in Medora in mid-August, on a mission to see the Painted Canyons National Park. We first visited the scenic overlook a few miles east because it doesn't take long to accomplish, and we wanted to spend quite a bit of time on the scenic loop here.
The admission line was pretty long at the visitor center, from the counter back to the entrance door. Fees are $30 per private vehicle, and one pass is valid for seven days. Motorcycles are $25. Hubby and I both have lifetime national park passes, so we didn't pay to enter.
We drove most of the scenic loop, except for one section which was closed. We were fascinated to locate a lone buffalo resting high on a hillside. He'd shed half his coat in the heat. Prairie dogs scurried everywhere we looked. Learning about the various types of park wildlife was interesting.
We decided not to hike because it was so hot, and there isn't much shade in the canyons. But the drive was beautiful.
The admission line was pretty long at the visitor center, from the counter back to the entrance door. Fees are $30 per private vehicle, and one pass is valid for seven days. Motorcycles are $25. Hubby and I both have lifetime national park passes, so we didn't pay to enter.
We drove most of the scenic loop, except for one section which was closed. We were fascinated to locate a lone buffalo resting high on a hillside. He'd shed half his coat in the heat. Prairie dogs scurried everywhere we looked. Learning about the various types of park wildlife was interesting.
We decided not to hike because it was so hot, and there isn't much shade in the canyons. But the drive was beautiful.
Written November 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Angela K
7 contributions
I am driving an RV from Cincinnati, OH to Theodore Roosevelt National Park then to Mt. Rushmore and back to Ohio. We are looking for sites to see along the way and to break up the drive. Any suggestions??
Davebshake
11 contributions
From TRNP and going to Mt Rushmore, you can go south a little to Wind Cave National Park. It is worth a stop even if the cave is closed for COVID right now. Also, in Rapid City, SD yo can see the walk of presidents and take pictures with your favorites. If you like a little more frivolous stops then Wall Drug is worth a quick stop. Some good food in the area and you can hit Badlands National Park, if you get there before it gets too hot.
conniehar
Aurora, IL427 contributions
How long do you think one should spend in the South Unit of the park? Scenic drive and short trails. Thanks!
Steve F
Nunica, MI164 contributions
We spent a day and a half in the South unit that that worked well for us. Be sure to take the Painted Canyon hike at the Visitors Center. Watch out for Bison!
mlcdpt
Asheville, NC67 contributions
To reach the Elkhorn Ranch unit, do we need a SUV for ground clearance? Trying to decide on a rental car type
bugaboo918
Saint Paul, MN119 contributions
We had the car/suv type and drove all over the park. If concerned id call the park.
on july 6 and 7 what is probable status of road construction on scenic loop and other areas of the park?
Dean_Amy-2004
Gettysburg, PA5,599 contributions
Recommend contacting the park service directly. There was no construction going on when we were there in June but that could have changed.
Sabine L
New York City, NY
Hello
we are planning to go to TRNP in a couple of days on our way back from Yellowstone (road trip from New York). Where would you stay in the area of the state line between Montana and North Dakota on the 94?
thank you very much
Sabine
eva1500
Linz, Austria511 contributions
I was staying in Glendive one of the few possibilities between Billings MT and the TRNP
Traveling crew
2 contributions
How long is the loop to drive
2doglady
Tennessee721 contributions
If I remember correctly, it was 16 miles. Part of the road was damaged and closed when we were there, so we drove as far as we could and then had to go back out the same way we came in... rather than just making a loop. Check the National Park website for this location and look for Alerts near the top. It will tell you about road closures so you know before you go.
cheryl6190
Carey, OH6 contributions
What is the distance between the north and south loops. Can you drive a motor home through the parks? Thank you.
Millie H
Califon,NJ27 contributions
We visited the south section near Medora first...and spent a full day in the park to allow for hiking, etc. Do not miss the Theodore Roosevelt impersonation in Medora and the Medora musical....both fantastic.
We drove due north on a major highway to the Northern section Of the park.....we were on our way to New City on the Missouri River.
It is worth spending time there...the drive North is beautiful...North Dakota is a beautiful state. We encourage everyone back east to visit...but it is off the beaten track.
Yes, there were many traveling in their RVs in the park.v
Howe7
Plattsburgh, NY11 contributions
When is the best time to go to the park, spring or fall?
Chuck B
Naples, FL41 contributions
We were there in August, and coming from Naples, FL, as we do, the heat then didn't bother us. It depends what you mean by spring and fall. If you go in March, I can imagine the weather could be pretty dicey. The same if you go in Late October or November. After all, this is North Dakota.
Jeff C
Cincinnati7 contributions
I am planning a two-day hiking trip to TRNP staying in Medora.
Most reviewers and comments favor the South Unit. Thoughts on spending one day in the North Unit?
Also, any recommendations for specific trails? Depending on weather and how I feel, I plan on an 8-10 mile hike in the morning and a shorter hike in the afternoon or early evening.
blackrun1
Nashport, OH226 contributions
We didn't go to the north unit. We did go on the Spur trail to the lower talkington trail it was great . Saw a herd of Bison and a herd of wild horses and plenty of prairie dogs. I would have like to went the other direction onto the upper talkington but didn't have time Hope this helps
Frequently Asked Questions about Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Hotels near Theodore Roosevelt National Park:
- (1.21 mi) Rough Riders Hotel
- (1.33 mi) Badlands Motel
- (1.50 mi) AmericInn by Wyndham Medora
- (1.16 mi) Cottonwood Campground
- (1.30 mi) Amble Inn
- Restaurants near Theodore Roosevelt National Park:
- (1.24 mi) Theodore's Dining Room
- (1.37 mi) Farmhouse Cafe
- (1.19 mi) Cowboy Cafe
- (1.24 mi) Badlands Pizza Parlor
- (1.36 mi) Boots Bar & Grill
- Attractions near Theodore Roosevelt National Park:
- (1.17 mi) South Unit
- (1.88 mi) Medora Musical
- (1.46 mi) Chateau de Mores State Historic Site
- (1.30 mi) Old Town Hall Theater
- (1.26 mi) North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame