Little Missouri State Park wilderness guide
State Park · ND

Little Missouri State Park

Little Missouri State Park offers a rugged landscape of badlands formations, providing unique opportunities for hiking and horse riding amidst North Dakota's dramatic natural scenery.

State Park6,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

6,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Little Missouri State Park

Little Missouri State Park offers a rugged landscape of badlands formations, providing unique opportunities for hiking and horse riding amidst North Dakota's dramatic natural scenery.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Little Missouri State Park is located in the badlands of North Dakota, characterized by its rugged terrain, buttes, and steep hillsides. The park spans 6,000 acres and is a paradise for those seeking solitude in a primitive environment. Ecologically, the park is home to a variety of grasses, wildflowers, and sparse tree cover, allowing visitors to experience the raw beauty of this unique landscape. Historically, the park's terrain has remained largely untouched and offers a glimpse into the past with native grasslands and prairie habitats. The park is renowned for its extensive trail network, which caters primarily to hikers and horseback riders. Visitors can explore the geological formations and enjoy panoramic views from multiple scenic overlooks. The Little Missouri River meanders through parts of the park, providing serene spots for reflection and photography.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Little Missouri State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The scenic Badlands Overlook provides breathtaking views of the rugged terrain.✦ A chance to observe unique badlands wildlife, including bison and mule deer.✦ Horseback riding trails tailored for exploring the park's extensive landscapes.✦ Primitive, rarely crowded campsites for an embers-in-the-dark wilderness experience.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Little Missouri State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Little Missouri State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee, but fees apply for camping and horse use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Little Missouri State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Little Missouri State Park Campground

Scattered campsites accessible via hiking or horseback, offering isolation and scenic views.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Little Missouri State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Killdeer, North Dakota
⌖ 14.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Killdeer, North Dakota

Killdeer, ND offers adventurous travelers an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Badlands. Enjoy hiking, biking, and scenic drives with rich wildlife and open skies.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
New Town, North Dakota
⌖ 35.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

New Town, North Dakota

New Town offers outdoor enthusiasts unique adventures on the expansive Lake Sakakawea. Enjoy fishing, hiking, and kayaking amidst the beautiful prairie landscape and cultural richness.

Dickinson, North Dakota
⌖ 46.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dickinson, North Dakota

Dickinson, ND offers access to rugged badlands and river adventures with hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking wide-open spaces and distinctive landscapes in all seasons.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Roseglen, North Dakota
⌖ 52.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roseglen, North Dakota

Roseglen is a peaceful North Dakota town offering access to quiet river paddling, fishing, and prairie hiking. Perfect for travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty on open landscapes.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Williston, North Dakota
⌖ 52.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Williston, North Dakota

Williston, ND offers a rugged outdoor retreat with activities ranging from fishing and kayaking on Lake Sakakawea to snowmobiling across vast winter trails. Experience the frontier spirit here.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Medora, North Dakota
⌖ 52.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Medora, North Dakota

Medora, ND, offers thrilling access to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the Maah Daah Hey Trail, and the iconic Medora Musical. Perfect for adventurers seeking unique encounters with nature and history.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Little Missouri State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Four Hours Through the Bakken: Street‑Legal UTVs Ready to Work or Play
ADVEXPEDITION
Williston, North Dakota
RentalsADV Bookable

Four Hours Through the Bakken: Street‑Legal UTVs Ready to Work or Play

A half‑day (4‑hour) rental from Arnie's Rentals in Williston lets you choose a fully equipped 2023 Kawasaki Mule Pro M‑X or 2023 Polaris Ranger 1000—both street‑legal and fitted with full cabs, heat/AC and winches—making this guide useful for planning a short, capable outing in the Bakken.

RentalsPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip