The Little Missouri river rolls through the North Dakota backcountry where the badlands and plains form a landscape rich in diversity. Here you’ll find Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Named after the 26^th President, Roosevelt came here in the 1880s to work as a cowboy, later chronicling his time in the area. Bison still roam the park, as they did in Roosevelt’s time, as well as prairie dogs, coyotes and others. The park is great for hiking and has several trails in the more popular South Unit as well as the North Unit. The only options for staying in the park are the campgrounds or back country camping (with a permit.)

Established as a national park in 1947, the park’s high season is in the summer. Temperature extremes and sudden storms are possible any time of year, although summer temperatures usually top out in the 80s. In the winter, you’ll find some of the park inaccessible and park services can be limited. The season can bring snow and very cold temperatures. The park does generally suffer from overcrowding, so you can visit in the summer, although a little advanced planning will be in order if you want to camp in the park.