Know Before You Go, Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Start Planning! 

You’re about to go on an epic adventure to Theodore Roosevelt National Park! Here’s what you need to know before you go. 

• The tour has four starting points:
  • I-94 E (Sentinel Butte)
  • Highway 85 (Northbound)
  • Highway 85 (Southbound)
  • Dickinson, North Dakota
• The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. Visitor Centers and attractions have varying hours of operation. Learn more here.
• Do not approach or feed wildlife. 
• Entry into Theodore Roosevelt National Park costs $30 per vehicle.
• travel updates and road closures

Budgeting and Hours of Operation 

Budget

How much you spend truly depends on what you do along the tour route, but here’s a breakdown of some costs. 

• $30 - entry to Theodore Roosevelt National Park 

Hours of Operation 

The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. The park’s visitor centers and attractions have varying hours of operation.

Below is a list of visitor centers in the park - the hours of operation vary depending on the season, but are generally open between 9:00 AM–4:30 PM.

• North Unit Visitor Center 
• South Unit Visitor Center 
• Painted Canyon Visitor Center

Learn more about the park’s hours of operation here. 

Get Packing!

Here’s our packing list for this tour. It may seem a little long, but remember, what you bring depends on the activities you choose to do for the day. 

• Headphones
• Car Charger
• Layered Clothing (Easy on and off layers are a must for changing mountain temperatures)
• Refillable Water Bottles
• Hiking/Walking Sticks
• Good Shoes/Boots or sturdy sandals designed for hiking
• Sunscreen
• Snacks
• Hats/Sunglasses
• Camera/Phone Cleanser (those trails can get pretty dusty!) 

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota is from late spring to early fall, between May and September. Here’s a closer look at what each season offers:

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and active wildlife. This is an excellent time for hiking, photography, and enjoying the park's scenic beauty without the summer crowds.

Summer

This is the park’s peak season, with warm temperatures and long days ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

All park facilities and services are fully operational. However, be prepared for more crowds and more expensive lodging. 

Fall

In autumn, you’ll be met with cooler temperatures and stunning foliage. You’ll also find there are smaller crowds after Labor Day, and it’s still a great time for hiking and wildlife viewing. 

Winter

Winter sees fewer visitors, offering solitude and unique opportunities to experience the park's stark, snow-covered landscapes.

While some facilities may be closed and certain areas inaccessible due to snow, activities like cross-country skiing and winter hiking can be rewarding for those prepared for the cold.

Leave No Trace 

While exploring, we encourage you to abide by the leave-no-trace principles.

Embrace the outdoors responsibly with our commitment to preserving natural wonders.

Respect wildlife habitats, minimize your footprint, and carry out memories, not waste.

By following Leave No Trace principles, you contribute to the longevity and beauty of our planet's most stunning landscapes.