The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department is thrilled to announce a bold transformation for Sully Creek State Park. In a proud tribute to the indomitable spirit of Theodore Roosevelt and the legendary Rough Riders, the park will officially become Rough Rider State Park. This renaming celebrates Roosevelt and his Rough Riders’ enduring legacy and our dedication to honoring the rugged beauty and cultural heritage of the West.
This announcement is especially meaningful as it coincides with the 166th birthday of President Theodore Roosevelt, a towering figure in American history who inspired generations to embrace the wild, conserve our landscapes, and embody the pioneering spirit. Roosevelt's commitment to the land and the Rough Riders' legacy inspires us to embrace this proud heritage in a park that invites everyone to explore, connect, and create their own outdoor stories.
Among the First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry “Rough Riders” organized by Roosevelt and Leonard Wood to fight in the Spanish-American War were several North Dakotans, including Jesse Langdon, who was the oldest surviving Rough Rider when he died at age 94 in 1975. “The Rough Rider State” also has been one of North Dakota’s unofficial nicknames for more than 50 years.
Nestled along the scenic banks of the Little Missouri River, just two miles south of Medora, Rough Rider State Park is a premier destination for horse enthusiasts, offering a unique and immersive experience that highlights North Dakota’s stunning vistas. With a trailhead connection to the Maah Daah Hey Trail and facilities designed for horseback riding, it’s the perfect spot to connect with nature in true Western style.
With an ambitious $4 million investment, Rough Rider State Park is set to nearly double its camping capacity, bringing the total to 70 campsites, along with additional amenities. Visitors can look forward to more modern facilities that will enhance the experience of camping under the wide-open North Dakota skies, with improved access to the park’s beautiful surroundings. The investment is part of a larger funding package for statewide park improvements proposed by Governor Doug Burgum and approved by the legislature.
“This transformation is a tribute to Theodore Roosevelt's spirit of adventure and love for the American wilderness. We’re beyond excited to bring these changes to life as part of our commitment to enriching recreational opportunities for everyone,” said Cody Schulz, Director of the North Dakota Parks & Recreation Department. “We are so incredibly grateful to the legislature for making this investment possible, as it will be the most significant infrastructure upgrade in the over 50-year history of the park. And we are proud to work with great partners like the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation, Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Billings County, Medora, and many others – who all embody a great love of the outdoors and western culture.”
Rough Rider State Park will continue to be a cherished destination for families, outdoor adventurers, history enthusiasts, and horse lovers from across the world. Physical, printed, and electronic signage updates will be completed throughout the winter and spring and the campground expansion is slated to begin in the late summer of 2025. We can’t wait to welcome you to Rough Rider State Park, where adventure, history, and nature await.
The mission of the North Dakota Parks & Recreation Department is to enrich generations through experiences that connect people and places.