About Backbone Campground — Theodore Roosevelt NP
Named for the president who made the conservation movement a national priority, Theodore Roosevelt National
Park protects the North Dakota badlands where the young Teddy Roosevelt's transformative experiences in the
wilderness inspired his conservation legacy. Wild horses, bison, elk, and golden eagles roam freely.
Highlights
- Wild mustang herds — genuine wild horses (not feral ponies)
- Free-roaming bison herd visible daily
- Painted Canyon scenic overlook
- Prairie dog towns throughout the park
- Very few visitors — true solitude in the badlands
Directions & How to Get There
For the North Unit (Backbone site): Take I-94 W from Bismarck to Exit 23 at Medora (South Unit). For the North
Unit: Take US-85 N from Belfield or Watford City approximately 15 miles to the North Unit entrance. The two
units are 70 miles apart.
Nearby Attractions
- Painted Canyon Overlook (South Unit)
- Medora town (South Unit)
- Boicourt Overlook (North Unit)
- Caprock Coulee Trail
- Little Missouri River
Insider Tips
- The South Unit is far more visited — North Unit offers exceptional wildlife and solitude
- Wild horses are best viewed at dawn in the North Unit
- Medora town near the South Unit is a charming western town
- The park receives fewer than 800,000 visitors annually — almost no crowds
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May–October
Season: Year-round
Access difficulty: Easy access
What to Pack for North Dakota Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route