Best Equestrian Camping near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Near Medora, ND, you can find some of the best camping in the area where elk, bison, and prairie dogs are a few of the common Great Plains sites campers can expect to see. Choosing campsites near the Badlands in North Dakota gives visitors easy access to the three sections in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which include destinations like the stunning Painted Canyon and the former home of President Theodore Roosevelt, the Maltese Cross Cabin. RV owners have plenty of campgrounds to choose from, some within walking distance of the park’s attractions. Don’t forget to tour the Scenic Loop Drive for unforgettable views.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park (12)

    1. Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    32 Reviews
    Grassy Butte, ND
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 842-2333

    $30 / night

    "Believe it or not, but I would put the North unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park even ahead of Yosemite.

    The trees and the canopy in the Juniper campground is really cool."

    "While this may be in the middle of nowhere, it is worth the trip off the beaten path. From what I understand, the north unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is even leas visited and less crowded."

    2. Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

    17 Reviews
    Grassy Butte, ND
    11 miles
    +1 (701) 842-8500

    $10 / night

    "Absolutely beautiful campground right across the river from Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s north unit. The scenery is breathtaking."

    "It is a close drive to Theodore Roosevelt National Park which is nice because we could spend all day at the park and then easily make it back in time to cook dinner and enjoy the site as well."

    3. Magpie Campground

    9 Reviews
    Grassy Butte, ND
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 225-5151

    $6 / night

    "Small and private, only one other group there who were visiting with their horses. They said they had good trails, but we didn’t have much time to explore. Beautiful views and very peaceful."

    "The part I like most about this campground is the easy access to the world renowned Maah Daah Hey Trail: >100 miles of trail open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders."

    4. Medora Campground

    44 Reviews
    Medora, ND
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 623-4435

    $30 - $60 / night

    "Close spots just outside of Medora and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Some spots are very close, but have stunning views of the buttes behind and the Little Missouri River."

    "Great location! This campground isright next to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and across the street from The Medora Musical. Restrooms & showers are clean and the have a laundry."

    5. Elkhorn Campground

    2 Reviews
    Theodore Roosevelt National Park, ND
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 225-5151

    "Close to clean pit toilet. Hand pump was hard to pump which produced light brown water which wasn't something we wanted to drink, so bring in your own water."

    6. Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    Medora, ND
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 623-2024

    "Nice little spot only ten minutes from Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Lots of RV traffic which comes with lots of generator noise."

    "A perfect campground for equestrian campers or those visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Just 3-4 miles from Medora ND and park entrance. Open views, good trails, great birding."

    7. Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)

    22 Reviews
    Medora, ND
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 227-7800

    $20 / night

    "General: Small (37-site) forest service campground in two loops near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. No hookups or cell service (despite proximity to the highway)."

    "No AT&T coverage at our campsite, but a short walk up a dirt road got us high enough for a few bars."

    8. Little Missouri State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Killdeer, ND
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 794-3731

    "There are many amenities including electrical hookups, water, horse corrals vault toilets and pay showers. But the amenities aren't why you stay at this park. You stay for the views."

    "We were surrounded by miles of hiking in which we enjoyed about 13 miles of, but so much more we could’ve hiked!"

    9. Wannagan Campground

    2 Reviews
    Medora, ND
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (701) 225-5151

    "Well off the beaten path. The campground was completely empty when my wife and I stayed the night. There’s a nice trail with the trailhead right next door. Also has a water well. Will stay again."

    "There is a short trail right from the site that leads up to great viewing spot complete with a bench. I believe the fee is $6 a night, bring exact cash or a check, no change to be made."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

4 Photos of 12 Theodore Roosevelt National Park Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

169 Reviews of 12 Theodore Roosevelt National Park Campgrounds


  • Nevin C.
    Aug. 24, 2018

    Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area

    Decent views, RV heavy.

    Nice little spot only ten minutes from Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Lots of RV traffic which comes with lots of generator noise.

    Pit toilets, and a shower house that gives you eight minutes for $1. Sites are reservable and cost $12 a night but there is a day use fee of $7 that is not included in the site fee. $19 a night unless you have a ND state parks pass. Tent sites have lots of shade and the RV and equestrian areas are pretty exposed.

  • Stefanie Z.
    Sep. 18, 2020

    Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

    Beautiful, clean, peaceful!

    We stayed here two nights in a tent and loved it! Absolutely beautiful campground right across the river from Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s north unit. The scenery is breathtaking. There are three different loops A-C, and while most sites have no shade there are a couple in loop B (including ours #12) that have trees and provide good shade and wind protection. The pit toilets were some of the cleanest I’ve encountered in my history of camping. We were there in mid-September so the campground wasn’t full but there were a decent number of campers for being off season. Still, it was pretty quiet, save for the coyotes howling in the distance and a stray moo or two from nearby cows. There’s also trail access right to Maah Dah Hey and Long X trails right in the campground which is really nice! All in all this is a wonderful spot and one of my favorite campgrounds I’ve ever stayed at. 1 mi. gravel road to get in.

  • Mac M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 2, 2021

    Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area

    Mesa views on Little Mo at Medora

    A perfect campground for equestrian campers or those visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Just 3-4 miles from Medora ND and park entrance. Open views, good trails, great birding. The sites have electric, accessible water and dump site. Showers snd vault toilets kept very clean.

  • Matt S.
    Sep. 4, 2016

    Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Now I know why Teddy Roosevelt loved North Dakota! Check out Juniper to camp!

    I have already posted my review for the Theodore Roosevelt South campground - Cottonwood. I won't repeat myself too much. Believe it or not, but I would put the North unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park even ahead of Yosemite.

    The trees and the canopy in the Juniper campground is really cool. Especially against the terrain that surrounds it. The campground is low on amenities but high on scenery, and it is very clean.

    The hiking in the North unit is amazing. There is so much wildlife. Never have I been so close to so many animals in the wild. I saw a lot of wildlife in Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, but not as much as I did here.

    I never thought I would ever want to visit North Dakota. Honestly, I cant wait to go back. This place will blow your expectations, especially if you take an adventure on a hike or two. In the North unit, I highly suggest stopping at the River Bend Overlook and hiking down to the CCC shelter for some amazing views. Then drive to the end of the road and take a quick hike to Sperati Point.

  • P
    May. 1, 2021

    Medora Campground

    Tight fit but close to the National Park and downtown Medora

    Tight fit but close to the National Park and downtown Medora. 

    The town of Medora truly supports the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

  • Hannah S.
    Aug. 14, 2021

    Medora Campground

    Great location and cozy spots

    Close spots just outside of Medora and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Some spots are very close, but have stunning views of the buttes behind and the Little Missouri River. Individual showers and a real desert feel.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)

    Convenient to the highway

    General: Small (37-site) forest service campground in two loops near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. No hookups or cell service (despite proximity to the highway). We arrived on a Thursday afternoon in late August with no reservation and had no problem securing a site, although it filled almost to capacity by evening. 

    Site Quality: Many are in direct sun, but we found one that had some afternoon shade. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. All camper pads are paved. 

    Bath/Shower house: There were six vault toilets (two by the entrance and two in each loop) that had sinks but no soap; they were reasonably clean. Two showers were in the other loop from where we stayed, and we did not use them. 

    Activities: There is access to the Buffalo Gap Trail, but we did not hike it as this was an overnight stop for us and quite hot. It is not far from the south unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

    It was hot when we were there (high 80s) so we just kind of collapsed upon arrival and took off the next day. The good news is you are close to the highway, but you will hear some road noise. $20 or$10 with the senior pass makes it a good deal. Cash or check if you cannot register online (no service with Verizon).

  • C
    Jul. 23, 2021

    Medora Campground

    Love Medora

    Great location! This campground isright next to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and across the street from The Medora Musical. Restrooms & showers are clean and the have a laundry. Sites are a little tight but there are many trees. There's a camp store and community pool available to campers.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 6, 2024

    Medora Campground

    Gateway to Teddy Roosevelt NP

    Medora Campground boasts a prime location near Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the charming town of Medora. With spacious sites along the Little Missouri River, it’s a tranquil spot with easy access to hiking, wildlife viewing, and the Medora Musical. Amenities are basic but sufficient, and the views of the surrounding badlands make it a picturesque choice for nature enthusiasts.

    A little pricey for our taste, but the hook ups in the August heat were worth it.


Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Horse camping near Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With several well-reviewed campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and hit the trails.

Tips for equestrian camping near Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota

  • Sully Creek State Park provides spacious sites with electric hookups and is close to the Little Missouri River, making it a great base for horseback riding adventures.
  • Roundup Group Horse Camp is specifically designed for equestrian campers, offering reservable sites and easy access to trails within Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
  • Little Missouri State Park Campground features ample space for horse camping and is surrounded by miles of hiking trails, perfect for both riders and hikers.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

  • Sully Creek State Park has designated horse camping areas with electric hookups and nearby corrals, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your horses.
  • Elkhorn Campground offers a peaceful setting with nearby trails leading to the Theodore Roosevelt Ranch site, ideal for exploring the area on horseback.
  • Magpie Campground allows pets and has easy access to the Maah Daah Hey Trail, which is popular among equestrians for its scenic routes.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • Wannagan Campground is well off the beaten path and features a trailhead right next door, providing direct access to beautiful hiking and riding trails.
  • Buffalo Gap Campground is conveniently located near Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offering access to the Buffalo Gap Trail for a day of exploration on horseback.
  • Medora Campground is close to town and the national park, making it easy to enjoy local attractions while having the option to ride in the stunning surrounding landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Theodore Roosevelt National Park is Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 32 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Theodore Roosevelt National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.