Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit

Location: Watford City, North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park may be one of the most underrated National Parks but it may also be one of the most beautiful. Since few people visit this park, you don’t have to worry about crowds, traffic or any of the things that you go to the parks to get away from.

After our trip to Acadia National Park, where it took nearly an hour to park at any given trail head, this was a pleasant change. We were able to truly enjoy the beauty of the badlands.

This is part one of our guide, focused on the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit. Be sure to continue on to the Guide to the South Unit for even more highlights.

Table of Contents

How Many Days Should You Spend at Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

We spent two full days exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park, with a travel day before and after, for a total of four days in North Dakota.

The park is divided into two separate areas: the North Unit and the South Unit. Many visitors only explore the South Unit, but skipping the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit would be a mistake.

The two units are not connected, and it takes about one hour to drive between them. One unique detail is that the park spans two time zones. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit is in Central Time, while the South Unit operates on Mountain Time.

What to Expect at Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit

The Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit is centered around a scenic out-and-back drive that stretches 28 miles round trip. This drive is the main way to explore the area, with several overlooks and trailheads along the route.

At the entrance, you will find a small visitor center with restrooms, a short film, and a few exhibits.

There are no food options inside the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit, so plan ahead. Pack snacks, bring plenty of water, and consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the overlooks.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit

Cannonball Concretions

One of the first stops in Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit is the Cannonball Concretions. There is a small pull-off, and you only need to walk a short distance to see these unusual rock formations scattered across the landscape.

What are Cannonball Concretions?

These formations were created when sand from ancient river deposits was cemented together by minerals in groundwater.

Over time, mineral-rich water seeped through the sediment, acting like glue and forming round shapes around a central core. As more layers built up, the formations grew outward, similar to how a pearl forms. Erosion eventually exposed them, creating the striking formations you see today in Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit.

Caprock Coulee Trail

If you want to do a hike, I would recommend doing the complete Caprock Coulee Trail loop. It was a beautiful, almost alien landscape. We reached an overlook and realized that there was a herd of over 50 bison grazing below us. It was one of the most memorable moments of our trip.

The trail crosses the park road and connects to the River Bend Overlook, offering sweeping views of the Little Missouri River floodplain. The second half of the hike has a desert-like feel that will give you Tatoine Vibes from Star Wars.

This hike was a bit strenuous in the heat with the steep inclines and declines but it is completely worth it. After the hike, we were happy to cool off with some air conditioning and drive the rest of the scenic route.

From this parking lot you can also hook onto the Buckhorn Trail out to the Prairie Dog Towns. Our attempts to visit these little characters were foiled by a sleepy bison who decided to take a nap in the middle of the trail. I would skip this trail for safety as you will see loads of prairie dogs in the South Unit.

River Bend Overlook

If you do not reach the River Bend Overlook via the Caprock Coulee Trail, it is an easy stop along the scenic drive through Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit.

This short walk leads to one of the most iconic views in the park, often referred to as the view that inspired the creation of the park itself. A small shelter, built in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, offers a shaded spot to relax and take in the scenery.

Oxbow Overlook

At the end of the scenic drive in Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit, you will reach the Oxbow Overlook.

Here, the Little Missouri River makes a sharp turn to the east. Originally, the river flowed north toward Hudson Bay, but during the last ice age, glaciers blocked its path, forcing it to change direction.

This is a peaceful spot to pause, take photos, and reflect on the unique geology of the region.

BISON SAFETY

Wildlife is one of the highlights of Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit, but it is important to remember that you are in their habitat.

Bison may appear calm, but they are incredibly fast and unpredictable. They can run up to 35 miles per hour and have injured visitors who got too close.

During our visit, we encountered a bison hidden in the grass along a trail. Within seconds, it stood up and made its presence clear. We immediately turned around and left the area.

Park regulations require visitors to stay at least 25 yards (the length of two full-sized buses) away from large animals, including bison, elk, deer, and wild horses. Always be prepared to change your plans if wildlife is nearby.

Final Thoughts

The Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit offers a quieter, more remote experience compared to many other national parks. With its scenic drive, unique geology, and incredible wildlife sightings, it is a destination that truly feels untouched.

If you are planning a trip to North Dakota, do not skip the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit. It was one of the most memorable parts of our visit and a place we would return to in a heartbeat.

Be sure to continue on to our Guide to the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park for even more ideas on how to explore this incredible park.