Pros & cons
PROS
- Maltese Cross Cabin next door (self‑guided; ranger tours in summer)
- Rangers for trip planning and backcountry permits plus film and exhibits
CONS
- Can be crowded midday, especially on summer weekends
- Limited daytime hours (typically around 9–5)
Overview
Right at the entrance in Medora, this is the best first stop to get your bearings. You’ll find helpful rangers, current conditions, and the quick essentials before heading out on the South Unit’s scenic drive.
What You’ll Find
- Trip-planning help and free backcountry permits at the ranger desk.
- A short park film (about 17 minutes) that sets the stage for the badlands you’re about to explore.
- A small but well-done museum with artifacts from Theodore Roosevelt’s time here, plus a bookstore for maps and field guides.
- Clean restrooms and an easy place to regroup before the drive.
Maltese Cross Cabin
Just outside the building sits Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin—open year‑round for self‑guided visits, with ranger‑led talks in summer. It’s a quick, worthwhile peek into Roosevelt’s ranching life and how this landscape shaped his conservation ethic.
Why Start Here
Road and trail statuses change, and closures can turn the loop into an out‑and‑back. A 5‑minute chat with a ranger often saves an hour later. If you’re considering a day hike or an overnight in the backcountry, this is where you’ll confirm details and grab your permit.
Best Time to Visit
Arrive near opening for easy parking and quieter exhibits; weekends see the biggest midday crowds, especially early afternoon. Late afternoon is another calmer window if you want a quick museum/film stop before heading to sunset viewpoints like Wind Canyon.
Quick Game Plan
Plan 30–45 minutes: talk to a ranger, watch the film, step through the museum, then walk over to the Maltese Cross Cabin. From here, continue to the overlooks and prairie dog towns where you’re likely to spot bison, wild horses, and mule deer along the South Unit’s scenic drive.
Where it is
46.9165, -103.5262Tips for South Unit Visitor Center
- 01Watch the film first—it frames the rest of your visit in 17 minutes.
- 02Ask rangers about road/trail closures before committing to the scenic drive.
- 03Walk to the Maltese Cross Cabin right after the museum to beat tour crowds.
- 04If you need a backcountry permit, budget a few extra minutes for the process.
- 05Arrive near opening on weekends to avoid the busiest midday window.
Amenities
Near South Unit Visitor Center
All places →All trails →
0 mi awaySouth Unit Entrance SignClassic park sign with a badlands backdrop for a quick photoPullout · Scenic Viewpoint
0 mi awayMaltese Cross CabinRoosevelt’s ranch cabin steps from the South Unit visitor centerExhibit · Parking
0.2 mi awayMedora OverlookQuick pullout with town views near the South Unit entrancePullout · Parking
1.3 mi awaySkyline VistaTiny paved walk to big Little Missouri badlands viewsTrailhead · Parking
1.3 mi awaySkyline VistaQuick paved stroll to sweeping Little Missouri badlands viewsEasy · 0.2 mi · 10 min
3.1 mi awayLone Tree LoopBadlands loop with big views, wildlife, and a Little Missouri fordChallenging · 9.6 mi · 5.5 hr
3.1 mi awayBig Plateau LoopBadlands views with a spicy river ford and bison on the plateauModerate · 5.2 mi · 2.5 hr
4.6 mi awayPaddock Creek TrailWildlife-rich badlands walk with frequent creek crossingsModerate · 10.6 mi · 4.5 hr
