Last updated: May 26, 2026
Place
Old East Entrance
NPS Photo/L. Honeyman
Quick Facts
Location:
Theodore Roosevelt National Park - South Unit
Significance:
The original entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Amenities
2 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Scenic View/Photo Spot
The original gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the Old East Entrance Station was built by the CCC as part of a 1938 relief project during the Great Depression. The Civilian Conservation Corps had 3 companies work inside the park from the years of 1934 to 1931. Much of the work accomplished inside the park utilized the local sandstone that they quarried themselves. When Interstate 94 was built in 1968 and replaced US Highway 10, the park entrance was moved to Medora. The orginal stone sign from this entrance can still be seen today at the Painted Canyon Visitor Center.
The Old East Entrance, situated in one of the park's many active prairie dog towns, is a beautiful example of hand-hewn stone masonry accomplished by the CCC. It harkens back to an earlier time in national parks, and is worth the 0.4 mile hike.
The Old East Entrance, situated in one of the park's many active prairie dog towns, is a beautiful example of hand-hewn stone masonry accomplished by the CCC. It harkens back to an earlier time in national parks, and is worth the 0.4 mile hike.