North Dakota’s beautiful Theodore Roosevelt National Park has many great sights to see. It’s no wonder that it’s considered the best national park to visit in North Dakota. From the Oxbow Overlook of the North Unit to the prairie dog towns of the South Unit, there are acres of badlands to explore. The southernmost point of the South Unit, in particular, has an awesome spot that will give you an unforgettable experience. Make sure you bring your camera to this one – you’ll want to take lots of photos!

North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt National Park has a North Unit and South Unit. The southernmost tip of the South Unit, located near Medora, ND, has an incredible sight to see.

Rick M/Tripadvisor

Just off of I-94 is the Painted Canyon Overlook. This absolutely breathtaking spot will give you a view of seemingly endless miles of badlands. You’ll quickly see why it’s called what it is.

Steve5863/Tripadvisor

The overlook includes parking and a lovely visitor center with information about the nature and history of the area. It’s open year round from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

CrankingChick/Tripadvisor

At the edge of the overlook, you can take in the majesty of this unique landscape. The gorgeous, colored layers of sediment tell a history that goes back long before people walked this land.

MN_Fernando/Tripadvisor

This spot isn’t just an overlook to stand at. There are hiking trails that will take you down into the canyons themselves and offer you a chance to explore the area.

743leslieg/Tripadvisor

Wildlife is very common here, especially bison. Elk, deer, coyotes, and plenty of birds are also common sights, adding to the experience.

Steve5863/Tripadvisor

Both the North Unit and the South Unit of the park have a lot to offer, but this southernmost spot, in particular, is one of the most popular for a good reason - it’s just that incredible!

Steve5863/Tripadvisor

Have you ever been to Theodore Roosevelt National Park? Do you agree that it’s the most iconic national park to visit in North Dakota? Be sure to share your thoughts with us by leaving a comment below — we’d love to hear from you!

Rick M/Tripadvisor

Steve5863/Tripadvisor

CrankingChick/Tripadvisor

MN_Fernando/Tripadvisor

743leslieg/Tripadvisor

Find more information on the Visitor Center and overlook by clicking here. This is a highlight of the South Unit, but the North Unit can be just as great to visit. Discover a special spot in the North Unit right here.

Looking for even more inspiration for planning your next great outdoor adventure in North Dakota? Check out our Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To North Dakota’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes, And More! There’s a little something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast on this list.

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Address: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

national park to visit in North Dakota January 12, 2022 Beth C. What are the top natural wonders in North Dakota? North Dakota isn’t one of the most visited states in the U.S.; however, it does have an extraordinary number of natural wonders to visit. Those who make the trip will be rewarded with stunning scenery and relatively few crowds. After exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park, perhaps the single best national park to visit in North Dakota, there are plenty of other places you’ll want to check out. For example, there’s a massive wildlife refuge near the town of Minot that boasts breathtaking landscapes of wetlands and rolling prairie hills. It’s known as Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge and it’s definitely worth seeking out. Another impressive natural wonder is Fort Ransom State Park. With sweeping views of the Sheyenne River Valley, this park is one of the most beautiful in the state. Lastly, did you know that North Dakota has a lost state park? Now a recreational area calls as Crow Flies High Butte, North Dakota’s second official state park was once called Verendyre National Park. Some other destinations to add to your North Dakota bucket list include Cannonball Concretions Pullout, Wildwood Hiking Trail, Cross Ranch State Park, Caprock-Coulee Trial, Grahams Island,  and Wild Canyon Trail. For more information, you can check out our previous article: The 10 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In North Dakota That Everyone Should Visit.

The OIYS Visitor Center

national park to visit in North Dakota

January 12, 2022

Beth C.

What are the top natural wonders in North Dakota? North Dakota isn’t one of the most visited states in the U.S.; however, it does have an extraordinary number of natural wonders to visit. Those who make the trip will be rewarded with stunning scenery and relatively few crowds. After exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park, perhaps the single best national park to visit in North Dakota, there are plenty of other places you’ll want to check out. For example, there’s a massive wildlife refuge near the town of Minot that boasts breathtaking landscapes of wetlands and rolling prairie hills. It’s known as Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge and it’s definitely worth seeking out. Another impressive natural wonder is Fort Ransom State Park. With sweeping views of the Sheyenne River Valley, this park is one of the most beautiful in the state. Lastly, did you know that North Dakota has a lost state park? Now a recreational area calls as Crow Flies High Butte, North Dakota’s second official state park was once called Verendyre National Park. Some other destinations to add to your North Dakota bucket list include Cannonball Concretions Pullout, Wildwood Hiking Trail, Cross Ranch State Park, Caprock-Coulee Trial, Grahams Island,  and Wild Canyon Trail. For more information, you can check out our previous article: The 10 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In North Dakota That Everyone Should Visit.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

North Dakota isn’t one of the most visited states in the U.S.; however, it does have an extraordinary number of natural wonders to visit. Those who make the trip will be rewarded with stunning scenery and relatively few crowds. After exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park, perhaps the single best national park to visit in North Dakota, there are plenty of other places you’ll want to check out. For example, there’s a massive wildlife refuge near the town of Minot that boasts breathtaking landscapes of wetlands and rolling prairie hills. It’s known as Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge and it’s definitely worth seeking out. Another impressive natural wonder is Fort Ransom State Park. With sweeping views of the Sheyenne River Valley, this park is one of the most beautiful in the state. Lastly, did you know that North Dakota has a lost state park? Now a recreational area calls as Crow Flies High Butte, North Dakota’s second official state park was once called Verendyre National Park. Some other destinations to add to your North Dakota bucket list include Cannonball Concretions Pullout, Wildwood Hiking Trail, Cross Ranch State Park, Caprock-Coulee Trial, Grahams Island,  and Wild Canyon Trail. For more information, you can check out our previous article: The 10 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In North Dakota That Everyone Should Visit.