Theodore Roosevelt Weather: Forecasts, Climate & Best Time to Visit

By David Sanchez · Data: National Park Service · ← Complete guide Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt National Park stretches across the Badlands of North Dakota, a continental, semiarid region where summer temperatures reach 91°F and winter temperatures drop below 5°F. Here's the first thing to know: May and June, along with September, bring the mildest temperatures, little precipitation, and beautiful light on the ocher formations. The park stays open 24 hours a day in winter, but snow can close roads without warning.

Theodore Roosevelt's Climate Month by Month

The table below shows climate averages for the Medora area, the gateway to the park's South Unit.

The park gets less than 15.7 inches of precipitation a year, so this is a dry region. June is the wettest month, but showers are usually brief and intense rather than spread throughout the day.

Theodore Roosevelt's Climate by Season

Winter (December to February)

Winter in the Badlands of North Dakota is no joke. Temperatures regularly fall below 5°F at night and can drop to -13°F during Arctic cold snaps. The wind, almost constant on the plateaus, makes the cold feel considerably worse.

Snow builds up in episodes, and some roads in the South Unit or North Unit may close from one day to the next. The scenery doesn't close. Bison keep grazing in the snow, and you'll practically have the park to yourself.

Spring (March to May)

March remains unsettled. Snow in April doesn't surprise anyone here. From mid-May on, temperatures become genuinely pleasant, reaching 59 to 72°F, and the Badlands prairie comes alive. It's also the best time to see bison calves and highly active prairie dog colonies. Our Theodore Roosevelt wildlife guide covers the best times for wildlife viewing.

One thing to watch for is spring thunderstorms, which often break out in the late afternoon and may include hail. Start your hikes in the morning.

Summer (June to August)

July and August are hot. Highs reach 90 to 95°F in full sun, and the dark rock formations absorb heat and keep radiating it well after sunset. Hiking an exposed trail at midday without water or a hat is a mistake you don't want to make.

Convective thunderstorms are a constant of summer in the Great Plains. They form quickly in midafternoon, usually between 2 and 5 p.m., and can be severe. In this open landscape, you'll see them coming from far away. If you hear thunder, get off the high ground.

Fall (September to November)

September is our favorite month at Theodore Roosevelt. Crowds thin out, temperatures stay mild, reaching 68 to 77°F during the day, and the late-afternoon light on the Badlands' ocher and golden colors is truly beautiful. October turns chilly quickly, and November becomes harsh again.

Another fall advantage is bison rutting season, which runs from August through October. The herds are especially active then. Stay at least 82 feet away and never position yourself between two animals.

Is Theodore Roosevelt Really That Cold? Records and Extremes

Yes. North Dakota is one of the coldest states in the continental United States. In winter, wind chill can fall below -31°F in sustained winds. At the other extreme, summer heat waves can push temperatures above 104°F on the plateaus.

What often surprises visitors is the daily temperature swing during the shoulder seasons, with differences of up to 45°F between morning and afternoon. A cool 41°F morning can turn into an 82°F afternoon in May. Bring layers you can take off or put back on along the way.

What to Wear at Theodore Roosevelt by Season

Winter. Layering is essential: thermal underwear, a midweight fleece, a waterproof windproof coat, a hat, warm gloves, and wool socks. Exposure to wind on the plateaus can cause frostbite in less than an hour.

Spring. Wear layers with a compact waterproof jacket. Weather changes quickly, so always bring a windbreaker, even under clear skies.

Summer. A wide-brimmed hat, SPF 50 sunscreen, and at least 2 liters of water per person per outing. Closed-toe trail shoes are essential. The Badlands' volcanic and sedimentary rocks are unforgiving on sandals.

Fall. Start with the same basics as in spring, but add a warm jacket by mid-October. Overnight freezes return in late September. Our Theodore Roosevelt hiking guide identifies the best hikes for each season and set of conditions.

Alerts and Conditions to Watch

The park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including all three units: the South Unit in Medora, the North Unit along Highway 85, and Elkhorn Ranch Unit. Conditions can still deteriorate quickly.

In winter, heavy snow can close roads without warning. The South Unit's Scenic Loop Drive, a 28-mile scenic loop, is usually affected first. Check road closure alerts on the NPS website before every outing.

Summer thunderstorms sometimes cause flash floods in Badlands drainages. When a thunderstorm warning is active, avoid low-lying areas, narrow canyons, and exposed high points.

Frequently Asked Questions