North Dakota has many gorgeous, year-round state parks that are always full of fun activities, no matter the season. There is one state park, however, that is only open seasonally – and you’ll want to check it out before it’s closed. Located in the beautiful badlands and full of natural splendor, get in a camping or hiking trip to this seasonal state park in North Dakota before it’s too late.
Sully Creek State Park is located in the heart of the badlands and is a well-loved camping destination for people visiting the Medora area.
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When summer dies down, all the businesses and activities in this area close up for the year and don’t reopen until the following spring. Sully Creek’s season runs from April 1st to November 30th each year.
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Even if you don’t get to this park during peak visiting times in the summer, a fall trip to Sully Creek is absolutely worthwhile. Just look at how beautiful it becomes:
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The park is nestled in an open valley between the badlands with the Little Missouri River running through it. People love spending weekends here sleeping out under the stars, especially with how great the stargazing is in this area.
Sully Creek State Park/Facebook
Along with camping, visitors to Sully Creek State Park enjoy canoeing or kayaking down the river, hiking the trails, and horseback riding. It’s very popular for horse owners to camp overnight in, as there are many campsites with corrals available.
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Speaking of horses, you might be able to see wild animals like horse herds, bison, elk, and on rare occasion bighorn sheep. It’s a true slice of prairie life.
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Whether you visit at the end of the season when the trees are vividly colorful, in the summer when the park is teeming with activity, or are there right on opening day in the spring and the river flows high, this seasonal state park in North Dakota is a must-visit before it’s closed for winter.
NDPRD/Flickr
The Sully Creek State Park is open from April 1st to November 30th each year. To learn more about the park and all its amenities, you can visit its official webpage or Facebook page.
NDPRD/Flickr
Sully Creek State Park/Facebook
Be sure to check out Medora, North Dakota while you’re in the area – it’s just minutes away – and if you need your outdoor fix in the badlands even when it’s the middle of winter, the Theodore Roosevelt National Park nearby is open year-round.
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Address: Sully Creek State Park, 1465 36th St, Medora, ND 58645, USA