Buffalo, Badlands, and a Visit from Officer Paul
Exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park – July 7–8, 2025
Since July 7th, we’ve been exploring the sweeping landscapes and hidden treasures of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, nestled just outside the historic town of Medora, North Dakota.
Our journey from Jamestown to Medora was smooth—good highways, light traffic, and sunshine all the way. Susan took the first shift behind the wheel, and we changed up our usual towing routine by switching who handles the tow vehicle hookup. It’s a small adjustment, but a smart one—you never know when an emergency might happen, and it’s good for both of us to be ready.
We began our first day by exploring Medora itself—a charming Western town with boardwalks, gift shops, and just enough kitsch to keep it interesting. We spent time visiting the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, where we soaked in the legacy of rodeo men and women, along with a moving tribute to the Native Americans who once lived and hunted across these vast plains. It was a glimpse into the soul of the West—gritty, proud, and resilient.
From there, we headed east along I-94 to the Painted Canyon Visitor Center. It was a quick stop to soak in the views and get oriented before our deeper dive into the park. What came next was something we hadn’t planned—but it gave us a good laugh.
The Curious Case of Officer Paul
When we got back to town later that afternoon, we stopped at a little park to give Dakota and Tilly a chance to stretch their legs. That’s when a Medora police truck pulled up, and Officer Paul rolled down his window.
“Mind if I take a look at your dogs?” he asked politely.
“Sure,” we said, a little puzzled.
Turns out, while we were at the visitor center earlier, some kind-hearted passersby had noticed Dakota and Tilly in the truck and, with the best intentions, called the police.
We explained everything: how we’d left the windows rolled down, sun screens on both ends, and parked fully in the shade. The truck was cool, and the dogs were fine—just waiting for their turn to explore. Officer Paul checked them over, confirmed they were perfectly happy, and let us know he still had to file a report “just to be official.”
Needless to say, we all had a good laugh. It's nice to know people are looking out for pets, even if it brings a uniformed visitor to your door.
Office Paul checking on Dakota and Tilly
You will notice how Dakota is paying special attention to Office Paul while he is discussing the serious nature of events that transpired to her.
Into the North Unit: A Land That Changes You
On July 8th, we hit the road early and made the 60-mile drive to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. It’s a long haul—especially in RV terms—so we left Dakota and Tilly back at the rig for the day.
The road out is something else. One thing about North Dakota: it is lonely out there. Just miles and miles of rolling grasslands stretching to the horizon. It’s the kind of empty that makes you quiet inside.
Along the way, we learned that farming in this part of the state is centered around hay and alfalfa—much of it grown for the ranches that dot the land. There’s something almost sacred about the simplicity of life out here. The rhythms are slower. The work is harder. But there’s beauty in the steadiness of it all.
When we finally arrived at the park’s North Unit, the landscape transformed before our eyes. The flat plains gave way to colorful badlands, deep ravines, and towering buttes—each shaped by centuries of wind and water. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small, but in the best possible way.
The park wasn’t crowded, which added to the sense of peace. We stopped at several overlooks, each one more breathtaking than the last. At one point, we saw our first buffalo—massive, shaggy, and completely indifferent to our presence. It felt like a sacred moment, seeing something so ancient and enduring just a few yards away.
Prairie dogs popped in and out of their mounds like little sentries, and we even spotted a pair of longhorn cattle lounging in the shade of a cottonwood tree. The drive through the park was slow and winding—exactly how we like it. No rush, just the rhythm of the road and the whisper of the wind.
Theodore Roosevelt once said, “I never would have been President if it had not been for my experience in North Dakota.” After spending time here, we’re beginning to understand what he meant. This land doesn’t just change your view—it changes you.
Evening Reflections
When we got back to the RV, Dakota and Tilly greeted us like we’d been gone for a week. Well, not exactly—they were mostly just eager to go outside and get a drink of the “good water.”
And honestly? After a full day of park roads, distant horizons, and wandering bison, it did feel like we’d been to another world.
Wed we’ll explore the South Unit, which lies just outside Medora and promises its own kind of beauty. But tonight, we’re grateful for a warm meal, a quiet place to park, and that good kind of tired that only comes from a day fully lived.
More to come on the South side of the TRNP.
Safe Travels and journeys
DaGirls Rv, Gus da Bus
Susan, Tilly, Dakota and me.
