Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Welcome to North Dakota's Theodore Roosevelt National Park, named for the 26th President of the United States who owned a ranch and hunted buffalo on a portion of this land that he called his "Elkhorn Ranch." Roosevelt is quoted in 1887 as saying My home ranch lies on both sides of the Little Missouri, the nearest ranch man above me being about twelve, and the nearest below me about ten, miles distant."

Park History: After Theodore Roosevelt passed away in 1919, many proposals were made to name a National Park after him in honor of all his service as President to the protection of the nation's resources and territory. Various studies took place in search of the perfect location for such a park and a close friend of Roosevelt named Sylvane Ferris appointed a committee that ultimately chose this site that was commonly known as "the Grand Canyon of the Little Missouri." Over the years a congolmeration of cowboys, congressmen, state, federal, and regoinal officials advocated for the park's creation. After several long battles over the years the land was designated as Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge in 1946, then to Theodore Roosevelt National Memorial Park in April 1947, and finally to Theodore Roosevelt National Park on November 10, 1978.

Flora and Fauna: Theodore Roosevelt Natoinal Park helps protect the home of numerous plant and animal species. Some of the more than 400 plant species that grow inside the park boundaries include rabbitbrush, asters, sunflowers, and cottonwoods. Some of the wild animals who call this place home include warblers, golden eagles, great horned owls, chipmunks, rabbits, mice, bison, mule deer, white-tailed deer, prairie dogs, and rattlesnakes. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors Theodore Roosevelt National Park boasts over 260 miles of rivers to be paddled, over 100 miles of trails, and so much more. Come on out and explore!