Theodore Roosevelt National Park Camping

Camping at Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a range of experiences, from primitive backcountry camping to more developed sites with basic amenities. With two main campgrounds, Juniper (North Unit) and Cottonwood (South Unit), as well as an equestrian group campground (Roundup Group Horse Campground), the park provides camping options for tents, trailers, and RVs. These campgrounds are open year-round, though services may be limited in winter.

Campground Overview

Cottonwood Campground (South Unit)

Located along the Little Missouri River, Cottonwood Campground offers 76 single-family campsites, including a group site and 12 walk-in sites. This campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. While it does not have hookups, it provides tables, fire rings, and grills at each site. During peak season, flush toilets and drinking water are available; vault toilets are used in the winter months.

Juniper Campground (North Unit)

Situated close to the river in the North Unit, Juniper Campground has 50 single-family campsites, a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. Like Cottonwood, it lacks hookups but offers similar amenities, including tables, fire rings, grills, drinking water, and flush toilets in summer (vault toilets in winter). Sixteen of the campsites are designated as walk-in sites.

Roundup Group Horse Campground (South Unit)

This group campsite is specifically for equestrian campers, offering facilities for horseback riders in a secluded area of the South Unit.

Backcountry Camping

For a more rugged experience, Theodore Roosevelt National Park allows backcountry camping for hikers and horseback riders with a permit. While there are no developed amenities, this option provides an immersive experience in the park’s wilderness. Backcountry campers are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and must obtain a permit from the visitor center before heading out.

Campground Amenities

Each campsite includes:

• Picnic table

• Fire ring and grill

• Flush toilets (seasonal) or vault toilets (winter)

• Drinking water (seasonal)

Generators are allowed from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and each site can accommodate up to six people and two vehicles. Check-in is at 2 p.m., and check-out is at noon.

Activities Near Campgrounds

Campers have access to a variety of activities, including:

• Hiking: Over 100 miles of trails, ranging from accessible paths to the challenging Maah Daah Hey Trail.

• Wildlife Viewing: Common sightings include bison, elk, prairie dogs, and wild horses.

• Stargazing: The park’s dark skies provide an excellent environment for stargazing.

• Fishing, Canoeing, and Kayaking: The Little Missouri River offers opportunities for fishing and non-motorized boating.

• Winter Sports: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular in winter.

Reservations and Regulations

While Cottonwood is entirely first-come, first-served, some campsites at Juniper are available for reservation through the National Park Service website. Each camper is responsible for familiarizing themselves with park regulations, including food storage to prevent attracting wildlife.

Camping at Theodore Roosevelt National Park allows visitors to enjoy the diverse landscape and wildlife of North Dakota’s Badlands while experiencing a connection to nature that Theodore Roosevelt himself cherished.