River Bend Overlook, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota | Photo Credit: Pixabay
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in North Dakota, pays homage to the legacy of America’s 26th president and celebrates the rugged beauty of the Badlands. The park showcases vast expanses of prairie, colorful badlands formations, and a thriving wildlife population. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike through winding trails, and observe iconic American bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs in their natural habitat. The park also preserves the historic Maltese Cross Cabin, which served as Theodore Roosevelt’s residence during his time in the Dakota Territory. Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a unique blend of natural wonders and historical significance, inviting visitors to embrace the spirit of adventure and conservation. Be sure to visit the park website for current closures and conditions.
Top Photography Locations and Sights at Theodore Roosevelt National Park:
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is divided up into three units. The North Unit, South Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch Unit. It is 68 mi (109.4 km) from the North Unit to the South Unit. The Elkhorn Ranch Unit is about a 1 1/2 hr drive from Medora, ND (near the South Unit). Both the North and South Units have a Visitor Center.
As photographers, we know that many of you will only have one chance in a lifetime to visit the National Parks. To make your life easier, we have compiled a list of our top photography locations and sights at Theodore Roosevelt National Park! While this is not comprehensive, and there are many more amazing sights to see, it should give you a good feel for the park.
North Unit
The North Unit, in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, is home to many spectacular vistas, including the 14-Mile Scenic Drive, Lonhorn Steers, Cannonball Concretions, River Bend Overlook, Prairie Dog Towns, Bentonitic Clay Overlook, and Oxbow Overlook. It is just over an hour north of the South District in North Dakota, and well worth a drive!
South Unit
The South Unit, of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, is located near the small town of Medora in North Dakota. This Unit is home to the 36-Mile Scenic Loop, which gives you access to the Boicourt Trail and Overlook, Buck Hill, Johnson’s Plateau, Jones Creek Trail, Peaceful Valley Ranch, Petrified Forest Loop Trail, Ridgeline Trail, Wind Canyon Trail, and the Painted Canyon Trail.
Elkhorn Ranch Unit
According to the National Park Service, “The Elkhorn Ranch Unit is the site of Roosevelt’s beloved second ranch. The buildings no longer exist, but stones mark the ranch house foundation. Before going to the Elkhorn, ask for information at one of the visitor centers. The roads are unpaved, steep, and easily washed out by storms.” (Theodore Roosevelt Map/Guide Pamphlet)
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Wildlife Photography:
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is filled with wildlife and biodiversity. If you like wildlife photography, you will love what this park has to offer!
Want to learn more about Theodore Roosevelt National Park? Check out these maps, guides & books:
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