Gateway Town
Watford City
Gateway Town
Your last shot at supplies before the North Unit. 44 miles north.
Quick facts
- Town Type
- Supply Depot
- Population
- 6207
- Best Known For
- Last supplies before Theodore Roosevelt NP; practical hub for park visitors
- About This Town
- Watford City is the county seat and the last reliable supply stop before entering Theodore Roosevelt NP's North Unit. The Bakken oil boom transformed it into a bustling worker town with modern services—hotels, gas, food, and groceries all within reach. Positioned between the North Unit and Lake Sakakawea, it's a natural staging area for park exploration.
Town overview
- Town Type
- Supply Depot
- Population
- 6207
- Best Known For
- Last supplies before Theodore Roosevelt NP; practical hub for park visitors
- About This Town
- Watford City is the county seat and the last reliable supply stop before entering Theodore Roosevelt NP's North Unit. The Bakken oil boom transformed it into a bustling worker town with modern services—hotels, gas, food, and groceries all within reach. Positioned between the North Unit and Lake Sakakawea, it's a natural staging area for park exploration.
- What Makes It Special
- County seat shaped by the Bakken oil boom; blends local heritage with modern worker practicality.
Park access
- Distance From Park
- 70.3 km (44 miles) north
- Nearest Airport
- Watford City Municipal Airport serves general aviation. Williston International Airport (26 miles south) offers broader flight options.
Where to stay & eat
- Hotel Count
- 2
- Bnb Count
- 0
- Lodging Variety
- Four hotels operate year-round: Comfort Inn & Suites, Little Missouri Inn & Suites, Roosevelt Inn & Suites, and Watford Hotel.
- Restaurant Count
- 2
- Restaurant Types
- Mexican grill, Japanese steakhouse, and casual burgers. Mostly open 11 AM–9 PM; few venues stay open past 10 PM.
Things to do
- Main Attractions
- McKenzie County Heritage Park preserves local history in period buildings. Pioneer Museum of McKenzie County features the state's largest petrified tree stump. Wild West Water Park is the main summer family draw.
- Summer Activities
- Fishing at Arnegard Dam northeast of town. Water park for families. Easy access to Theodore Roosevelt NP's North Unit scenic drive and wildlife viewing.
- Breweries Bars
- Stonehome Brewing Co., JL Beers, and Outlaws Bar & Grill serve as evening hangouts. Most close by 9–11 PM.
Planning advice
- Booking Advance
- Book rooms 2–3 months ahead for June–August. Off-season usually has availability.
- Late Night Intel
- Kitchens mostly close by 9–10 PM. Stonehome Brewing Co., JL Beers, and Outlaws Bar & Grill serve food until 9–11 PM. Don't count on late-night options; eat early.
- The Vibe
- Working hub, not a cute resort town. Practical and affordable, car-dependent. Stop here to resupply; head elsewhere if you want scenery and charm.
- Best Time To Visit
- June through September offers the clearest roads and most reliable services for park season.
- Tips Advice
- Most food venues close by 9–10 PM—eat early
- Summer rooms fill quickly; book 2–3 months ahead
- This is your last reliable supply point before the park
- Downtown core is walkable; most travel is by car
More details
- Family Friendly Notes
- Safe walkable downtown. Wild West Water Park provides summer entertainment. Most services accessible by car.
Location
Frequently asked questions
Is anything open late?
Kitchens close by 9–10 PM. Stonehome Brewing, JL Beers, and Outlaws serve until 10–11 PM.
How far to the park?
About 45 minutes to Theodore Roosevelt NP's North Unit entrance.
Last place for gas and supplies?
Yes. Stock up here before heading into the park.
Should we book a hotel now?
For summer (June–August), yes—2–3 months ahead. Off-season is more flexible.
Is this a town to spend days in?
No. Stop for the night, resupply, and head to the park. The draw is the North Unit, not the town.
What's safe to do with kids?
Wild West Water Park in summer. Museums. Downtown is safe for walking.
Recommended gear for Theodore Roosevelt National Park
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.