Theodore Roosevelt National Park

QUICKLINKS:

Theodore Roosevelt first came to the badlands in September 1883 on a hunting trip. While here he became interested in the cattle business and invested in the Maltese Cross Ranch. He returned the next year and established the Elkhorn Ranch. Years later he stated several times, "I never would have been President if it had not been for my experiences in North Dakota."

Maltese Cross Cabin

Built during the winter of 1883-84, the Maltese Cross Cabin was Theodore Roosevelt's first home in Dakota Territory. Guided tours of TR's cabin are scheduled daily mid-June through Labor Day. It is open for self-guided viewing the rest of the year.

		Theodore Roosevelt As A Rancher 1880s When twenty-four-old Theodore Roosevelt stepped off the train in Dakota Territory in September 1883, he brought with him a keen sense of adventure and wonderment. Today, the park provides an opportunity to learn about an environment and way of life that helped shape Theodore Roosevelt's attitudes and philosophy regarding conservation.

		The Badlands Of Theodore Roosevelt National Park The colorful Little Missouri River Badlands provides the scenic backdrop to the park which memorializes the 26th president for his enduring contributions to the conservation of our nation's resources.

		Wildlife Viewing The Little Missouri River has shaped the land which is home to a variety of prairie plants and animals including bison, elk and feral (wild) horses.

Write to

Superintendent
PO Box 7
Medora, ND 58645

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information - Park Headquarters
(701) 623-4466

Visitor Information - North Unit
(701) 842-2333

Fax

(701) 623-4840

Climate

Summers are warm with temperatures in the 80s and 90s with a few days into the 100s on some years. Evenings can be cool. Average maximum: July is 87.1 degrees and August is 86.7 degrees. Average minimum: July 54.5 degrees and August is 52.4 degrees. Annual precipitation is 15 inches.

Winters are generally cold with brief warming periods.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park Information