Theodore Roosevelt · December
Theodore Roosevelt in December
December is one of the best times to visit Theodore Roosevelt — about as busy as November, about as busy as January.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
Well below this park's peak — easy parking, open trails, short lines.
About 1% of this park's busiest month.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Jul 2026 · alerts checked Jul 10, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Visitation
Typical December visits vs. the year
Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Weather
December weather
- Avg high
- 28°F
- Avg low
- 10°F
- Precipitation
- —
- Sunrise
- 7:33 AM
- Sunset
- 4:04 PM
- Daylight
- 8.5h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, FAIRFIELD, ND US
What's open
Theodore Roosevelt in December: access
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. This applies to all units of the park; North Unit, South Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch Unit. Even when entrance stations and visitor centers are closed, the park itself remains open. Remember to check current conditions for any weather related closures.
No seasonal road or area closures reported for this park.
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Information
Petrified Forest Trailhead Access Update: Use Approved Route
Directions to the Petrified Forest trailhead have changed. Please use the approved legal route from I-94, Exit 10 toward Camels Hump Lake and follow the clearly marked posts. This update helps maintain good cooperation with neighbors and respect park boundaries. For precise directions, use the link provided.
Details on nps.gov → - Information
South Unit Address for Mobile Maps – Theodore Roosevelt NP
On all maps used on mobile devices, use the following address to reach the South Unit Visitor Center and Entrance Station 201 East River Road N. Medora, ND 58645
- Information
Theodore Roosevelt National Park moves to cashless fee collection
Starting May 1, Theodore Roosevelt National Park will accept only credit cards, debit cards, or digital payments for entrance fees, campground fees, and Interagency Passes. Cash and check payments will no longer be accepted.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Theodore Roosevelt crowds across the year
FAQ
Theodore Roosevelt in December
How busy is Theodore Roosevelt in December?
December rates 1/10 for crowds (Quiet) at Theodore Roosevelt National Park — about 1% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 2,134.
What is the weather like at Theodore Roosevelt in December?
In December, Theodore Roosevelt averages a high of 28°F and a low of 10°F, with about 0.0 inches of precipitation.