The Underrated Park That Just Might Be The Most Beautiful Place In North Dakota

When people come to visit North Dakota to see its unique landscapes and natural areas, they usually go to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. While that park is a stunning place on its own, there is another park just below it on the map that may just rival it in beauty. It isn't as big or well known as most of the other parks in the state, and that might just make it the must underrated place in the state.

This state park, named Sully Creek State Park, is located just a few minutes south of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Sully Creek is still located right in the heart of the badlands. It has the multi-colored canyons and lush valleys they are known for in a more quaint, gorgeous place.

The Little Missouri River that created this valley flows through the park and is a big reason people like to visit.

In the early spring when the waters of the river are high, canoeing down this river is something that people love to do. It offers a unique perspective of this area that is breathtaking to say the least. It is North Dakota's only official State Scenic River.

This place is truly a sight to behold any time of the year, especially closer to fall.

Sully Creek State Park is a seasonal state park and isn't open year round. It is opening soon, though, so start making your plans! The season starts on April 1 and it will remain open until November 30.

Camping is a huge draw to Sully Creek.

With three separate campgrounds, corrals for people bringing in horses, and more, this is a prime camping spot in North Dakota. You're able to pitch your tent right at the base of the canyons for a truly unique experience.

Sully Creek has many wild animals that roam through it that make visits here exciting.

Animals include herds of wild horses, bison, deer, birds, prairie dogs, and tons more.

Even bighorn sheep roam these hills!

The best way to experience Sully Creek is on the trails, whether on horseback or foot.

The campgrounds at this park have accommodations for those of you who want to bring horses for trail rides to the park. This is one of the best places for horseback riding in the entire state, with plenty of trails to take and amazing sights to see. Foot and mountain bike trails are also available, including a portion of the Maah Daah Hey Trail.

Both the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the Sully Creek State Park are amazing in their own way, but Sully Creek definitely deserves some more recognition! Fortunately, they're close enough you can visit both in one day. For more information on the SCSP, click here.

Need more ideas on what parks to visit in North Dakota? Here's a list of 10 state parks in the Peace Garden State you'll love.