About This Playground
🌳 Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota is renowned for its rugged Badlands terrain, diverse wildlife, and rich history. While the park emphasizes natural landscapes and outdoor activities, it does not feature traditional playgrounds with play structures. Instead, it offers visitors immersive experiences in nature, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
Visitor Experience: Visitors frequently praise the park for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly atmosphere. Many appreciate the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing. Some families note the absence of traditional playgrounds but find that the park's natural attractions provide enriching experiences for children.>
More about this playground
Playground Type
Address
North Dakota, USA
Phone
(701) 623-4466
+1 701-623-4466
Website
www.nps.gov/thro/index.htmCoordinates
46.95089, -103.4627
Hours of Operation
Hours may vary during holidays. Please call ahead for confirmation.
Playground Features
Age Suitability
While there are no traditional playgrounds, the park offers family-friendly activities suitable for children of all ages, including easy hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Equipment Available
The park does not provide conventional playground equipment.
Shaded Areas
Natural shaded areas are available along certain trails and picnic spots, primarily provided by the park's vegetation.
Seating For Parents
Benches and picnic tables are available at various points, offering seating for visitors.
Restroom Availability
Restrooms are available at the park's visitor centers and campgrounds.
Drinking Fountains
Drinking fountains are available near visitor centers and picnic areas.
Safety Accessibility
Fencing
The park is unfenced, allowing visitors to experience its natural environment. However, certain areas may have barriers to protect visitors from wildlife.
Surface Material
Most trails are unpaved, consisting of dirt and gravel. Some accessible trails are paved or have compacted surfaces suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Ada Accessibility
The park offers ADA-accessible trails and facilities, including paved paths near visitor centers. It's advisable to check specific trail accessibility before visiting.
Cleanliness Maintenance
The park is well-maintained, with regular cleaning of facilities and upkeep of trails. Visitors often commend the park's cleanliness.
Additional Amenities
Nearby Parking
Parking is available at visitor centers, trailheads, and campgrounds.
Pet Policy
Pets are welcome but must remain on a leash and are not permitted on trails.
Bike Racks
Bike racks are available near visitor centers.
Nearby Food Options
There are no dining facilities within the park. However, nearby communities such as Medora offer various restaurants and eateries.
Sports Areas
The park does not feature traditional sports areas.
Walking Biking Trails Nearby
The park offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Biking is permitted on certain roads and designated trails.
Community Reviews
User Submitted Photos
Visitors often share photos highlighting the park's unique landscapes, wildlife encounters, and family activities.
Recent Reviews
Recent reviews emphasize the park's natural beauty, tranquility, and opportunities for family bonding through outdoor activities.
Crowd Levels
The park experiences moderate visitation, with peak times during summer months and national holidays.
Special Events
The park hosts occasional ranger-led programs, educational talks, and seasonal events. It's recommended to check the park's official website for current event schedules.
User Experience
Entrance Fee
A 7-day vehicle pass costs $30.
Space For Groups
The park offers picnic areas and campgrounds suitable for group gatherings. Reservations may be required for larger groups.
Nature Connection
Visitors can deeply connect with nature through immersive experiences in the park's diverse ecosystems, observing wildlife such as bison, horses, elk, and prairie dogs.
Noise Level
The park offers a peaceful environment with low noise levels, ideal for relaxation and reflection.
Aesthetic Design
The park's design emphasizes natural landscapes, preserving the Badlands' rugged beauty. Visitors often appreciate the scenic drives and viewpoints that showcase the area's unique geology.
Safety Regulations
Security Presence
Park rangers regularly patrol the area to ensure visitor safety and adherence to regulations.
Rules Restrictions
Visitors are expected to follow standard park rules, including leash laws for pets, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife.
First Aid Availability
Basic first aid kits are available at visitor centers. It's advisable to carry personal first aid supplies when exploring trails.
Community Interaction
Community Activities
The park offers educational programs, guided hikes, and volunteer opportunities that foster community engagement.
Social Interaction
Visitors often engage with park rangers and fellow explorers during programs and at designated gathering spots, enhancing the social experience.
Sustainability Environment
Eco Friendly Practices
The park emphasizes conservation and sustainable practices, aiming to preserve its unique ecosystems for future generations.
Renewable Energy
Specific renewable energy initiatives within the park are not detailed.
Walkability Bike Access
The park's design encourages exploration on foot and by bike, with designated trails and roads accommodating these activities.
Reviews
Melissa Previte
3 months ago
Pretty incredible drive with breathtaking scenery along with an abundance of wildlife, including tons of Buffalo and Prairie dogs. It was so neat to see them burrow and sit up on their mounds. The Buffalo are very close to the road at times, so it's important to drive with caution. Make sure you have a full tank of gas if you plan on driving the whole park.
View on Googlejohnnyshortsleeves
2 weeks ago
If you ever wanted to go to North Dakota but needed a good reason, this is it. Think of it as the Badlands North, only I think it is much better. The scenic views are fantastic, and the wildlife is a huge bonus. Both the North and South units are great, but I preferred the South Unit. Be aware there is about an hour drive between them. I was there in mid-September, and as you can tell from my photos, it was rather beautiful. As National Parks go, this is a sleeper and a pleasant surprise. No, it's not Yellowstone or Yosemite, but it doesn't have their crowds, either. Just go, you won't be sorry. ps the little town of Medora is pretty cool, too.
View on GoogleMitch W
3 months ago
Visited Theodore Roosevelt National Park and was blown away by the wildlife and scenery! I had the chance to see buffalo, prairie dogs, and even a coyote, which made the experience unforgettable. The views throughout the park are stunning, with wide open prairies and rugged landscapes that capture the wild beauty of nature. It’s a perfect spot for anyone who loves wildlife and breathtaking views. Highly recommend!
View on GoogleAndy Novikov
6 months ago
We began our tour in the South Park stopped by the rest area and visitor center at Painted Canyon Overlook. It was our first taste of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The overlook was excellent with a view over the North Dakota badlands. The following day we headed to the North Park and drove the scenic road there. The views were absolutely spectacular! We really enjoyed the scenery in this section of the park much more. We spent one day in the North unit which was loaded with bison, they were everywhere! We did the scenic drive and took several short hikes. It was not crowded during our visit and the weather was wonderful. We used the pull-offs to stop for photos. It was a great visit. The scenery and wildlife is worth the effort to get here. Would highly recommend a visit to either, or both, sections of this great park.
View on GoogleDynamic
2 months ago
Absolutely beautiful Park to visit and spend some time admiring the wildlife. There are also plenty of trails to get down and enjoy a pleasant walk. Theodore Roosevelt National Park in definitely worth multiple visits.
View on Google