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Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness facts for kids

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Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness
IUCN Category Ib (Wilderness Area)
Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness is located in the United States
Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness
Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness
Location in the United States
Location McKenzie County / Billings County, North Dakota, USA
Nearest city [[Watford City, North Dakota and Medora, North Dakota|Watford City, ND and Medora, ND]]
Area 29,920 acres (121.1 km2)
Established 1978
Governing body National Park Service

The Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness is a special protected area in North Dakota, USA. It was created in 1978 by the United States Congress. This wilderness covers a huge area of 29,920 acres (about 121 square kilometers). That's more than a third of the entire Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Both the wilderness and the park are managed by the National Park Service.

The wilderness is split into two parts, just like the National Park. One part is in the northern section of the park, located in McKenzie County, North Dakota. The other, smaller part is in the western area of the park's southern section, in Billings County, North Dakota. These two sections are about 70 miles (113 km) apart.

Exploring Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness

Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness
Badlands in Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness

This wilderness protects the wildest parts of the National Park. It's known for its unique "badlands" landscape. Imagine steep cliffs and deep valleys carved out of what used to be flat land. This amazing shape was mostly created by the Little Missouri River. The river flows along the south side of both wilderness sections.

Wildlife in the Wilderness

Many different animals call this wilderness home. You might spot large animals like bison, pronghorn, elk, and mule deer. Smaller animals like coyote also live here. The area is also a haven for hundreds of types of birds. Look up to see bald eagles, falcons, and hawks soaring through the sky.

Trails and Camping

There are about 85 miles (137 km) of trails in the wilderness. These trails let you explore the most remote and untouched areas. If you want to camp overnight, you'll need a special permit. It's important to know that you can't gather wood for campfires. Instead, campers are encouraged to bring a portable stove for cooking.

What is a Wilderness Area?

U.S. Wilderness Areas are very special places. They are set aside to remain wild and untouched by human development. This means you won't find any roads or buildings here.

  • No Motorized Vehicles: You cannot use cars, motorcycles, or even bicycles in these areas.
  • No Logging or Mining: Activities like cutting down trees or digging for minerals are not allowed. This rule follows the 1964 Wilderness Act.
  • Camping and Fishing: Usually, you can go camping and fishing if you have the right permit.
  • Hunting: In some wilderness areas, like those within National Forests, hunting is allowed during certain seasons.

The goal of a wilderness area is to preserve nature as it is, letting wild plants and animals thrive without human interference.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Parque nacional Theodore Roosevelt para niños

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