Theodore Roosevelt first came to the badlands in September 1883 on a hunting trip. While here he became interested in the cattle business and invested in the Maltese Cross Ranch. He returned the next year and established the Elkhorn Ranch. Years later he stated several times, "I never would have been President if it had not been for my experiences in North Dakota."

The park is open all year and 24 hours a day.
Portions of the South Unit Scenic Loop Drive and North Unit Scenic Road may be closed in winter due to snow and ice.

VISITOR CENTERS:
South Unit Visitor Center
Open all year
8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MT      
Plus mid June to Labor Day
8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. MT  Monday-Thursday
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. MT  Friday-Sunday

Closures - Thanksgiving Day(4th Thursday in November), Christmas Day (December 25), and New Year's Day (January 1)

Painted Canyon Visitor Center
Open from April 1 to mid-June
8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m MT
Open from mid-June to Labor Day
8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. MT
Open from Labor Day to mid-November
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 MT