This Is One of the Most Underrated National Parks in the U.S.-and It Has Badlands, Wild Horses, and Presidential History

"Over the course of his life, the 26th president of the United States regularly split his time between New York State and the rugged badlands of North Dakota. His experiences here helped forge his passion for the outdoors and conservation, spurring him to use his presidential influence to establish the United States Forest Service, 150 national forests, and five national parks."

"The gates never close, so you can drive in at sunrise, stargaze past midnight, or even visit in the dead of winter if you're brave enough. The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, valid for a full week across all three park units, or $55 for an annual pass. If you're road-tripping to multiple parks this year, it's worth picking up the $80 America the Beautiful pass, which covers every U.S. national park."

Theodore Roosevelt spent significant time in North Dakota's rugged badlands, which shaped his commitment to conservation and led to creation of the U.S. Forest Service, 150 national forests, and five national parks. Theodore Roosevelt National Park showcases the wilderness that influenced those policies and preserves the former president’s legacy. The park offers wide-open skies, wind-carved canyons, and frequent wildlife sightings with far fewer crowds than many western parks. Gates remain open around the clock for sunrise, stargazing, and winter visits. Entrance costs are $30 per vehicle for seven days, $55 annually, and the $80 America the Beautiful pass covers all U.S. national parks. North Dakota winters can be brutal, so prepare for harsh conditions if visiting in winter.

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