National Parks in North Dakota
5 NPS units in North Dakota — complete visitor guides with fees, hours, hiking, camping, and seasonal tips.
Visiting National Parks in North Dakota
North Dakota is home to 5 units managed by the National Park Service, ranging from 1 full national parks to historic sites, monuments, and recreation areas. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a multi-week adventure, North Dakota's national parks offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States.
Before your visit, make sure to check current entrance fees, operating hours, and any active alerts — all updated daily on each park's page. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all NPS units and is highly recommended if you plan to visit multiple parks in North Dakota.
National Parks in North Dakota
Other NPS Units in North Dakota
Fort Union Trading Post
National Historic Site
Between 1828 and 1867, Fort Union was the most important fur trade…
Knife River Indian Villages
National Historic Site
Earthlodge people hunted bison and other game, but were in essence farmers…
Lewis & Clark
National Historic Trail
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through…
North Country
National Scenic Trail
Come to the North Country. Trek the hills and valleys. Stand on…
Planning Your North Dakota National Park Trip
- →Best time to visit: Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer the best combination of good weather, open facilities, and manageable crowds across North Dakota's parks.
- →America the Beautiful Pass: At $80/year, this annual pass covers entrance to all 5+ NPS units in North Dakota and all other NPS units nationwide.
- →Book early: Lodging and campsite reservations at popular parks fill up months in advance. Plan and book as early as possible, especially for summer visits.
- →Check alerts: Road closures, fire restrictions, and seasonal closures can affect your plans. Check each park's page for current alerts before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many national parks are in North Dakota?
North Dakota has 1 designated national parks and 5 total NPS-managed units, including monuments, recreation areas, and historic sites.
What is the best national park to visit in North Dakota?
The best park depends on your interests. Theodore Roosevelt is one of the most popular options. Browse the parks above to find the one that matches your travel style.
Do I need a pass to visit national parks in North Dakota?
Most NPS units in North Dakota charge an entrance fee. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all of them and is great value if you plan to visit more than 2-3 parks.
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.