BEST AREAS FOR WILDERNESS CAMPING
THEODORE ROOSEVELT NATIONAL PARK 70,000 acres. Comprised of two widely separate units in vest-central North Dakota, Theodore Roosevelt National Park encompasses some rugged and beautiful badlands scenery, with buttes and table-ands, steep slopes and deep canyons.
Included are a petrified forest and a painted canyon. The Little Missouri River flows through both tracts, along with a number of creeks. Over
8,000 acres have designated wilderness status. The area includes prairie grasslands and some
Xoodlands, with juniper, yucca, and cactus, mong the wildlife are white-tailed and mule aeer, bison, elk, and prairie dog, and there are some wild horses. Extremes of temperature are not unusual in the region, with severe storms sometimes occurring.
Activities: There are about 85 miles of trails for backpacking and hiking. Horseback riding is per-njiitted on the trails, and horses may be rented in the park during the summer.
Canoeing is available on the Little Missouri River during May and June of each year. Bicycles ale allowed on park roads only, not on trails or in the backcountry. Hunting is forbidden.
Camping Regulations: A free permit is required in order to camp in the backcountry. Permits must be obtained in person at the visitor center or ranger station. Campers should also check in at tlie end of a visit.
There are no designated campsites, and camping is allowed almost anywhere in the park. Sites should be at least 100 feet from water sources.
Fires are not permitted, so cooking must be done on stoves. Maximum group size is 10. Pets are prohibited.
For Further Information: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, P.O. Box 7, Medora, ND 58645; (701)623-4466.
