Theodore Roosevelt National Park bears the name of one of the most famous American conservationists. As such, it is only fitting that this parcel of land enjoys a wide variety of flora as well as fauna, and visitors to North Dakota are delighted with the many species of each they may encounter at Roosevelt Park during one of the many hiking opportunities that exist at that location. Did you know that Roosevelt Park has over one-hundred miles of hiking trails?
If you are traveling with your child, you will be in for a treat! This park, perhaps more so than any other, caters especially to the younger set in the hopes of instilling in them the same love for the open plains, and the rugged countryside that captured President Roosevelt's heart and soul. Children as young as two may request a Junior Ranger Journal upon entering the park. This journal is filled with interesting facts, little known tidbits, and fun activities that will permit the children to go on treasure hunts, recognize flora and fauna, and all the while learn about the park and its native inhabitants. As a reward for the hard work and success in spying all the required items, kids may upon exiting the park earn the Junior Ranger Badge and also receive a Badlands Club Sticker. What a wonderful way to awaken a child's interest in the park, keep them going while having them entertained in the process, and then end the day with a little reward for their hard work!
Roosevelt Park also offers up close and personal interactions with the park rangers. At the Medora Visitor Center rangers give talks on a wide variety of subjects on a daily basis from the middle of June to the beginning of September. If you are planning to take advantage of this opportunity with your child, please be sure to arrive either at 10:00AM or at 2:00PM, so that you will catch the beginning of the talk and not just the tail end. If this time is a bit too early for you, please note that rangers also love to take small groups on short evening nature walks to give some hands-on instruction about the various sights and sounds that may be enjoyed. It is best to call ahead and find out the times for the walks, but usually it will be just before dark. One of the most popular ranger programs at Roosevelt Park is the evening campfire circle. Taking place in the Cottonwood Campground as well as the Juniper Campground, you and your child may join a ranger by the flickering light of a cozy campfire to learn more about the park and its mission. There is no child who will not enjoy this wonderful opportunity!
As you can see, Theodore Roosevelt National Park truly caters to the younger set with activities especially geared to children of all ages. Of course, since all these events take place outside, please be prepared for outdoor eventualities. Obviously, the weather is a great variable, and the North Dakota badlands are no exception. Weather changes are often quick and radical, and so it is best to either come dressed in layers or carry a backpack with a warm jacket and sweater just in case. Similarly, it will not hurt to also carry a short sleeved shirt to change into in case the sun gets too hot. Sun screen is a must, as well as bottled water. If you plan on hiking, please be sure to take along a map and a compass as well as the water. There is no drinkable water aside from the designated water fountains at the beginning of a trail or the visitor center. Naturally, since you may quite possibly encounter some wildlife, caution is in order! Go ahead, enjoy Roosevelt Park!