When Theodore Roosevelt first came to the North Dakota Badlands in 1883 to hunt bison, he discovered more than wildlife—he found “perfect freedom” and a rugged lifestyle that would shape his future. What began as a hunting trip turned into a lifelong bond with the Badlands, where he invested in the Maltese Cross Ranch. After losing his wife and mother in 1884, Roosevelt returned to the Dakota Territory to heal and built his beloved Elkhorn Ranch.

For years, he ranched, served as a deputy sheriff, and lived adventures that became frontier legends—like chasing boat thieves across 300 miles of icy terrain. Though his ranching days ended, Roosevelt’s time in North Dakota fueled his passion for conservation and the American West.

At the time he became the 26th President, Roosevelt credited the Badlands as “where the romance of my life began.” His experiences here inspired landmark conservation efforts, including the creation of national forests and wildlife sanctuaries. By the time of his death, Roosevelt had become a legend that lives on in North Dakota.

Although Theodore Roosevelt National Park was designated in 1947, its protection is rooted in Roosevelt’s 1880s ranching years and his lifelong conservation philosophy.

Today, Theodore Roosevelt National Park stands as a tribute to the man whose love for these rugged lands helped shape America’s environmental legacy.

"I never would have been President if it had not been for my experience in North Dakota." - Theodore Roosevelt

Teddy Trail

You can also follow in Theodore Roosevelt's footsteps on the Teddy Trail and visit the legendary destinations he visited, helped establish, create, or preserve during his time in North Dakota

Explore the Teddy Trail!

Roosevelt’s Triangle: Roosevelt’s Legacy in the Great American West

Explore the lasting legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, his time spent in the Badlands of North and South Dakota and Wyoming left an indelible mark on the natural landscape, cementing his role as the nation’s first “conservationist president."

Discover Roosevelt's Triangle

More Theodore Roosevelt Experiences