Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is in western North Dakota in the area commonly referred to as the North Dakota Badlands. The Park is divided into north and south units, with a combined area of 70,447 acres. This, in my opinion, is the most beautiful and interesting part of North Dakota. The park is accessed by two loop roads, the South Unit Scenic Loop Drive, 36 miles, and the North Unit Scenic Loop Drive, 28 miles. The park is always open, but these roads may close temporarily during winter due to ice and snow. On my August visit there I saw Bison, Pronghorn, Elk, Prairie Dogs, a Golden Eagle and other wildlife.

As a young man Theodore Roosevelt first visited this area on a hunting trip in Sept. 1883. He returned again the next year and established Elkhorn Ranch. Later, as the U.S. President who did more for conversation than any other, Roosevelt said, "I never would have been President if it had not been for my experience in North Dakota."

President Theadore Roosevelt established the U.S. National Forest Service, including 150 National Forests. Using the 1906 antiquities act, he proclaimed 18 National Mounuments. He also established 5 National Parks and 51 National Wildlife Refuges.