Gateway Town

Belfield

Gateway Town

Quick supply stop 15 min from the park. Gas, motels, casual food. Check restaurant hours—most close by 10 PM.

Quick facts

Town Type
Supply Depot
Population
810
Best Known For
Gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park; affordable lodging and fuel services
About This Town
Belfield is a small oil-industry town serving as the primary supply stop for Theodore Roosevelt National Park, 15 minutes from the South Unit entrance. It's not a vacation destination—it's where you gas up, grab food, and sleep before entering the park. Budget motels and casual restaurants handle the steady flow of park visitors.

Town overview

Town Type
Supply Depot
Population
810
Best Known For
Gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park; affordable lodging and fuel services
About This Town
Belfield is a small oil-industry town serving as the primary supply stop for Theodore Roosevelt National Park, 15 minutes from the South Unit entrance. It's not a vacation destination—it's where you gas up, grab food, and sleep before entering the park. Budget motels and casual restaurants handle the steady flow of park visitors.
What Makes It Special
Oil-industry heritage defining the town's economy. Gateway location to Theodore Roosevelt's historic Badlands ranch and the Initial Rock expedition site.

Park access

Distance From Park
36.9 km (approximately 23 miles) southeast of park center. South Unit entrance at Medora is about 18 miles west via I-94, roughly 15 minutes by car.

Where to stay & eat

Hotel Count
3
Bnb Count
0
Lodging Variety
Budget motels
Restaurant Count
5
Restaurant Types
Casual steakhouse, diner
Dining Price Ranges
Casual dining ($$)

Things to do

Main Attractions
Initial Rock Historic Site (12 miles southwest)—site of a cavalry camp from Custer's 1876 expedition. Nearby Badlands scenery. Local city parks.

Planning advice

Peak Season
June-August (park peak season)
Shoulder Season
May, September-October (quieter park access)
Booking Advance
Book lodging 2-3 months in advance for June-August peak season. Shoulder season (May, September-October) walk-ins generally available. Winter and spring often have walk-in availability.
Late Night Intel
Most kitchens close by 9-10 PM. Burly's Roughrider Bar and Steakhouse may serve food into late evening (call ahead to confirm). Stock snacks from gas stations for in-park evenings when fewer options are available.
The Vibe
Belfield is a working supply hub, not a tourist destination. No-frills, practical, car-required. Stay here to save money and fill up; the Badlands are the attraction, not the town itself.
Tips Advice
  • Fill your tank before entering the park (fuel options inside are limited)\n
  • Most restaurants close by 9-10 PM—plan meals ahead\n
  • Book summer lodging (June-August) 2-3 months in advance\n
  • Dickinson, 20 miles east, has additional shopping and services if needed

More details

Winter Scene
Quiet small town; Theodore Roosevelt remains open 24/7 year-round
Insider Tips
  • Trapper's Kettle (803 Highway 85 N) is the most reliable all-day option (summer: 6AM-10PM; winter: 6AM-9PM)\n
  • Arrive early during peak season for better lodging and dining availability\n
  • Dickinson (20 miles east on I-94) has bigger box stores and shopping if you need supplies
Family Friendly Notes
Small town, generally safe. Car required for all activities. Highway 85/I-94 proximity means some traffic noise in certain areas.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How far is Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

36.9 kilometers (approximately 23 miles) southeast of the park center. The South Unit entrance at Medora is about 18 miles west via I-94, roughly 15 minutes by car.

What time do restaurants close?

Most close between 9-10 PM. Summer hours may extend; call ahead. Trapper's Kettle is open 6AM-10PM in summer, 6AM-9PM in winter (as of 2021).

Do I need a car?

Yes. Private car is essential in Belfield and required for park access.

What historical sites are nearby?

Initial Rock Historic Site is 12 miles southwest—marks the campsite of Custer's cavalry expedition on May 28, 1876, en route to the Battle of Little Bighorn.

When should I book lodging?

Book 2-3 months ahead for June-August peak season. Other seasons usually available on short notice or walk-in.

Where should I fill up for gas?

Belfield has gas available; specific 24/7 pumps not confirmed. Fill up before heading into the park where fuel options are limited.

Alexander

Tiny gateway 76 km north of the park. One motel, sparse services. Plan fuel and supplies ahead.

Watford City

Your last shot at supplies before the North Unit. 44 miles north.

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.