An illustrated regional mural of Rough Riders Hotel and Chateau de Mores in Medora, the North Dakota badlands, and the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.
PARKS · MEDORA, NORTH DAKOTA

Rough Rider State Park & Little Missouri River

A riverside base camp for paddlers, riders and Maah Daah Hey bikers.

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What to expect

This park on North Dakota’s only state scenic river (called Sully Creek State Park until 2024) has campsites, horse corrals and a canoe launch. Float a stretch of the Little Missouri past buttes and cottonwoods, or ride straight out of camp onto the Maah Daah Hey.

  • Canoe and kayak access to the Little Missouri
  • Modern and primitive campsites, showers
  • Horse corrals and trails
  • Direct access to the Maah Daah Hey and the Deuce

Getting to Rough Rider State Park & Little Missouri River

2.25 miles south of Medora via East River Road, then 0.5 mile west on gravel.

Before you go

Vehicles are $7 a day. Camping can be reserved at reservendparks.com; the campground was partly open during 2026 renovations, so call 701-623-2024. The river is best for paddling in May and June; check the USGS Medora gauge before you go.

Fees, seasons and conditions can change. Confirm with the linked website before you head out.

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