When President Roosevelt visited North Dakota to hunt bison in 1883, the dramatic landscapes of this state instilled a deep love of the wilderness in this young man.
As a result, Roosevelt used his authority as president to set up five national parks and hundreds of other conservation areas around the country.
That’s why North Dakota’s national park bears the name of this insightful leader. Would you like to retrace the footsteps of one of the world’s first conservationists?
A national park RV camping trip to North Dakota is a great way to celebrate his legacy.
National Park RV Camping Destinations
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the state’s main National conservation area, but there are several other sites of national significance dotted around the state.
These include:
- Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
- Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
- Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail
- North Country National Scenic Trail
You’ll find a wealth of campgrounds in these areas where you can enjoy an RV camping experience with your family and friends.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park straddles Interstate 94, close to the town of Medora and five hours north of South Dakota’s Badlands.
The park boasts stunning scenery dotted with small grassy mounds, and it’s easy to imagine early explorers galloping across the countryside in search of the resident bison.
Other wild creatures you may encounter during your RV trip include deer, elk, pronghorns, feral horses, beavers, coyotes, and prairie dogs.
Hiking’s one of the most popular activities during a stay at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, but you can also enjoy kayaking along the Little Missouri River.
There are two campgrounds within the boundaries of the park, namely Cottonwood and Buffalo Gap campgrounds.
Camping at Cottonwood Campground
Fees vary from $7 to $14 depending on which time of year you book. You can also arrange a group booking for up to 20 people for $30 per day.
The campground fills up every summer and there are only 50 first-come-first-served RV campsites available. In total, Cottonwood has 76 primitive sites with water, but no hookups.
There is a dump station at the campsite.
Camping at Buffalo Gap Campground
The U.S. Forest Service manages this campsite, which nestles among the Little Missouri National Grasslands. Buffalo Gap has 36 primitive sites suitable for RVs under 20-feet.
They’re all available on a first-come-first-served basis at a rate of $20 per night. There is potable water and a dump station on-site.
This campground offers easy access to the Buffalo Gap Loop.
If you’re looking for free RV camping in North Dakota, check out more info here.
Both these campsites are distant from Medora, so be sure to stock up on RV camping supplies before you head into the park.
Maximizing Your RV Park Camping
Most national parks welcome RVs, but some have size restrictions. So, if you’re traveling in a large RV, it’s best to check before you arrive.
You should also check if any of the roads along the way have restrictions or require a permit for traveling in an RV. Be sure to plan for potential delays and inclement weather before you leave, too.
Getting Around
You can travel to many major sites within National Parks in your RV, but it isn’t always the best way to go. Disrupting your camp life to drive around is time-consuming and unnecessary if you can find an alternative.
Some parks offer a shuttle service, guided walks, or bicycle hire to these iconic sites. You can also tow a second vehicle if you want to get around more easily during your stay, but it pays to research your options before you leave.
Planning an Effortless Stay
If you’re traveling to one of TRNP’s campsites, you should conduct a trial run somewhere else to determine how many days you can stay comfortably without hookups.
Nowadays, most National Parks offer the option to reserve your space in advance. It’s always best to book ahead.
If you rely on hookups for your survival, you can stay at a campsite outside the boundaries of the National Park instead and travel to enjoy the sights.
You can buy an annual pass to TRNP for $55 or pay $30 per vehicle per day.
Pack the Essentials
If you’re an inexperienced RV Camper, it’s easy to overpack for your trips. Plan your meals so that you only pack the kitchenware you need.
You only need one set of utensils and one plate per person. As you become more experienced, you’ll soon realize what you really need.
Pack your clothes according to the season, but you should always take a warm jacket along for cool evenings. You’ll only need one outfit per day, and most campers keep to a casual dress code, so don’t pack for every eventuality.
Paper maps and guides take up space, and it’s easy to lose them. Rather, download maps and guides onto your phone for easy access. Remember, without access to electricity, you’ll need to find a way to charge your tech using solar power.
You’ll need a few tools to cope with RV camping, too. Experienced travelers recommend the following:
- A small level and a tire pressure gauge
- Duct tape
- A multi-tool and a multi-bit ratcheting screwdriver set
- A socket set with adapters and extensions
- Bungee cords and hooks
- A headlamp and rubber gloves
- Tire pressure gauge
- A hammer and hatchet combo
- Batteries
A first aid kit containing basic wound care items, antihistamines, and medication for upset tummies is essential.
Ready, Steady, Go RVing!
Visiting America’s sixty national parks is one of the best ways to make the most of your RV travels. These natural showcases offer a host of family-friendly activities, scenic attractions, and incredible discoveries.
Whether you’re new to RVing, or an experienced camper, there’s always something new to discover in nature.
Are you looking for more of the best travel ideas? Explore our blog for some great suggestions.