This was our second visit to the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. We first stopped here back in 2019 on route to Glacier National Park, and we were excited to return. This time, we stayed at the Medora Campground, arriving in time for dinner before heading into the park for what we like to call “animal hour”—that magical time in the evening when wildlife becomes most active. Our first stop was Prairie Dog Town, always a lively and entertaining place. From there, we drove to the Beef Corral Bottom area, where we witnessed hundreds of bison migrating from east to west, making their way toward the Little Missouri River.
Next, we walked the Wind Canyon Trail, which led us to a breathtaking overlook of the river. From that vantage point, we could see the entire bison herd crossing the water below. As the sun went down, we took a slow drive along the Scenic Loop in search of wild horses. Sure enough, we spotted several grazing in the open landscape. Just before returning to camp, a gray coyote darted across the road, capping off an incredible first evening.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park continues to impress us. It’s a hidden gem that deserves far more attention than it gets.
Bison in the Beef Corral Bottom area
Wind Canyon Trail
Bison crossing the Little Missouri River
Wild Horses
