Exploring the Scenic Beauty of North Dakota

We recently stopped on our journey in the state of North Dakota, filled with excitement not only to visit the renowned Theodore "Teddy"Roosevelt National Park but also to mark the completion of my quest to explore all 50 states in the U.S. The charming town of Medora served as our home base for this adventure, and it did not disappoint.

The Medora Campground: An Oasis in the Wild

Nestled alongside the tranquil Missouri River, the Medora Campground proved to be a haven for nature enthusiasts. With over 200 spacious campsites accommodating tents, RVs, and even cozy cabins, it offered a diverse range of options for all types of travelers. What's more, the campground provided essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a playground, a well-stocked general store, and convenient laundry and bathroom facilities. The cleanliness and ease of navigation made it an ideal base for our North Dakota exploration.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: A Glimpse into Nature's Beauty

Our primary destination, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, had three distinct units: the north, the south, and the Elkhorn Ranch unit. We opted to explore the south unit via a 48-mile scenic drive, albeit interrupted by road construction. While not a continuous loop, the drive gave us stunning views of diverse wildlife, from playful prairie dogs to HUGE bison. The sunsets over the rugged terrain were truly mesmerizing, and it was easy to see why Theodore Roosevelt was so taken with this remarkable landscape.

The Enchanted Highway: A Roadside Art Adventure

While camping, we had the pleasure of meeting some kindred spirit travelers at the Medora Campground, who introduced us to the Enchanted Highway. Spanning 32 miles from Interstate 94 near Gladstone to the charming town of Regent, this stretch of highway boasts seven awe-inspiring statues crafted with scrap metal sourced from the oil industry in the area. These remarkable works of roadside art tell the tale of North Dakota, with names like Geese in Flight, Deer Crossing, Grasshoppers (which there were a MILLION of and embedded in front of the rig from our drive), Fisherman's Dream, Pheasants on the Prairie, Teddy Roosevelt Rides Again, and Tin Family. What made the experience even better was the accompanying audio tour, allowing us to dial a phone number and a three-digit code to hear the inspiration and stories behind these masterpieces. This cost-free adventure was well worth our time, leaving us with a deeper appreciation for North Dakota's history, artistry, and wide open spaces.

Boots Bar and Grill: A Culinary Delight

When it came to dining options, Boots Bar and Grill in Medora beckoned us with its flavorful offerings. We began our meal with the delectable Black and Blue Brussels Sprouts, setting the stage for a yummy dinner. The Boots Burgers, featuring 1/3-pound patties bursting with flavor, were quite enjoyable. It was the perfect stop for a satisfying meal. We enjoyed it so much, but no pictures here as we forgot to take them!

Prairie Knights Casino: An Evening of Entertainment

For an evening filled with entertainment, we took a drive to Fort Yates, North Dakota, to experience Prairie Knights Casino Resort. Located in the middle of nowhere, this entertainment destination had multiple restaurants, a spacious pavilion area, and over 700 games. We joined the Knight Club Rewards Program, which allowed us to grab a free gift from a kiosk. I received $10 of free slot play, while Shelly got a discount for food - too bad we had just eaten! Although the slot machines offered entertainment, we found disappointing payouts.

Overall, our journey to North Dakota was a memorable adventure filled with natural beauty, artistry, and some notable food. Medora, with its inviting campground, served as the perfect home base for exploring the wonders of Teddy Roosevelt National Park and the enchanting Enchanted Highway. And after a day of exploration, Boots Bar and Grill and Prairie Knights Casino were a good blend of sustenance and entertainment. North Dakota's hidden treasures are a testament to the diverse and captivating beauty that can be found in every corner of our vast country.

Until next time, keep spinning the wheel of adventure!

Happy RVing!

2KidsatHeart 🚐💨