This North Dakota Game Preserve Is The Coolest Thing You’ll Ever See For Free

Sullys Hill National Game Preserve in North Dakota offers free access to diverse wildlife and scenic views, established by Theodore Roosevelt.

North Dakota is full of places to experience the great outdoors and enjoy an abundance of wildlife in their natural habitats. But did you know that you can visit a game preserve in North Dakota that was established by former president Theodore Roosevelt himself? Over one hundred years later it is still open for visitors - and not only that, but it is entirely free to visit! Take a look for yourself and discover just why a visit to Sullys Hill is one of the most interesting things to do in North Dakota:

Sullys Hill National Game Preserve was established by Theodore Roosevelt in 1904 as a national park, not a game preserve. Later, during the Great Depression, the park was transferred to the USFWS and became a game preserve instead.

Today the preserve encompasses almost 1,700 acres that include wooded areas, marshes, and shoreline along North Dakota's largest natural lake, Devils Lake. Tons of animals call this place home, including bison.

Elk, deer, prairie dogs, birds of all kinds, and many other creatures can also be found in Sullys Hill. You're likely to see some while you visit.

The park is great for an outing on a nice day as it has no entrance fees and plenty of recreational opportunities. You can climb the many steps up to the top of the hill itself...

... and be treated with a stunning view. The deck at the top will give you a great vantage point showing the blue waters of the lake and the miles of trees surrounding it.

Sullys Hill National Game Preserve has multiple trails for hiking and a visitors center that has more information about the wildlife here.

A 4-mile auto tour route is also available so you can cruise through the area and enjoy the natural views.

Throughout the year the park offers opportunities for kids to learn about the great outdoors and native North Dakotan animals, and sometimes include fun activities like kayaking or canoeing.

No matter what you do at Sullys Hill National Game Preserve, whether it be just strolling along a trail, enjoying the observation deck, or watching the animals, you're in for a memorable experience - and a free one at that!

For more information on visiting Sullys Hill National Game Preserve, including hours and special events, visit the official website.

Did you know that this isn't the only place in North Dakota that once was a national park but isn't anymore? There is another lost national park elsewhere in the state, and it's definitely worth a visit!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories