Theodore Roosevelt in October: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
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October is one of the best months of the year to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park: crowds run 34% of the July peak (54,275 average visits). Weather: highs average 58°F and lows 30°F, with 1.2″ of precipitation and 11 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
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Crowds in October
Theodore Roosevelt averages 54,275 recreation visits in October — 34% of what July, the peak month, draws. Trailheads and parking fill accordingly.
Weather & daylight
Days are cool (highs average 58°F), and nights drop below freezing (lows average 30°F). It is typically dry (1.2″ of precipitation). Mid-month daylight runs 11 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station MEDORA, ND US (5 mi from park coordinates, 2,268 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of October.
What to pack for Theodore Roosevelt in October
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves — nights average 30°F, below freezing
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
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Also at their best in October
Other parks whose computed October verdict is a best window — same NPS × NOAA formula:
- Badlands in October — 27% of peak crowds, highs 63°F, score 81/100
- Isle Royale in October — 2% of peak crowds, highs 51°F, score 81/100
- Wind Cave in October — 25% of peak crowds, highs 61°F, score 81/100
- Gateway Arch in October — 26% of peak crowds, highs 69°F, score 80/100
Common questions
Is Theodore Roosevelt crowded in October?
No — October is one of the quieter months: 34% of the July peak, averaging 54,275 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Theodore Roosevelt in October?
Average highs of 58°F, lows of 30°F, 1.2″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, MEDORA, ND US station).
What should I pack for Theodore Roosevelt in October?
Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves; Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in October · Last verified 2026-09-24