List National Parks in North Dakota
List of National Parks in North Dakota
North Dakota boasts several remarkable national parks, each offering unique landscapes, rich biodiversity, and exceptional recreational opportunities. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a nature lover, these parks will surely captivate your adventurous spirit. In this article, we will introduce you to the national parks found in North Dakota and provide important information for planning your visit.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in western North Dakota, is a tribute to the United States’ 26th president, Theodore Roosevelt. Divided into three units, the park showcases stunning badlands formations, abundant wildlife, and expansive prairies.
South Unit
The South Unit, situated approximately 133 miles west of Bismarck, is the most accessible area of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Visitors can explore various hiking trails, witness the petrified forests, and even spot bison, elk, and wild horses roaming freely. To reach the South Unit, the closest major airport is the Bismarck Municipal Airport, which is about 134 miles away.
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/thro/index.htm
- Phone Number: 701-623-4466
- Mailing Address: 315 2nd Ave., Medora, ND 58645
North Unit
The North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located approximately 195 miles northwest of Bismarck, offers picturesque views of the badlands and excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The closest major airport to the North Unit is Minot International Airport, situated around 112 miles away.
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/thro/index.htm
- Phone Number: 701-384-7101
- Mailing Address: 315 2nd Ave., Medora, ND 58645
Elkhorn Ranch Unit
The Elkhorn Ranch Unit, home to Roosevelt’s remote and serene ranch site, provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with the tranquility and solitude that once inspired the former president. Located around 150 miles west of Bismarck, this unit is the most remote and peaceful area of the park.
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/thro/index.htm
- Phone Number: 701-623-4466
- Mailing Address: 315 2nd Ave., Medora, ND 58645
Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, located near the Montana-North Dakota border, played a vital role in the fur trade during the 19th century. Visitors can explore reconstructed trading post buildings, learn about the region’s history, and enjoy the scenic beauty along the Missouri River.
Local
Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site is located around 25 miles southwest of Williston, North Dakota, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike.
Closest Major Airports
The closest major airports to Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site are:
- Williston Basin International Airport – Approximately 35 miles northeast of the site.
- Minot International Airport – Situated around 120 miles southeast of the site.
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/fous/index.htm
- Phone Number: 701-572-9083
- Mailing Address: 15478 ND-1804, Williston, ND 58801
Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site is a testament to the thriving culture of the Northern Plains Indians, particularly the Hidatsa people. The park preserves earth lodge depressions dating back centuries and offers insights into the daily lives, customs, and traditions of these indigenous communities.
Local
The site is located in Stanton, North Dakota, making it easily accessible to the local population.
Closest Major Airports
The closest major airports to Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site are:
- Minot International Airport – Approximately 40 miles southeast of the site.
- Bismarck Municipal Airport – Situated approximately 70 miles to the southwest.
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/knri/index.htm
- Phone Number: 701-745-3300
- Mailing Address: 564 County Road 37, Stanton, ND 58571
Summing Up
North Dakota’s national parks offer stunning landscapes, historical significance, and incredible opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park or immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, these parks deliver unforgettable experiences. Plan your visit, immerse yourself in nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime.