Medora

Medora is a town in North Dakota's Badlands, located at about 2,260 feet (690 meters) elevation near Theodore Roosevelt National Park's south entrance and Painted Canyon. The town sits amid rolling terrain with canyons, buttes, and expansive views across the landscape.

The town was founded in 1883 by French nobleman Marquis de Mores, who named it after his wife Medora von Hoffman. He established a meat packing plant there, one of the region's first major industrial ventures.

The Medora Musical performs nightly at Burning Hills Amphitheatre, showcasing North Dakota traditions through music and live entertainment since 1965. The shows tell stories of ranching, pioneer life, and Native American heritage that shaped the region.

The town works well as a base for exploring the surrounding Badlands and nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park on foot or by car. Hiking trails are accessible, and visitors can spot bison and wild horses throughout the landscape, with golf also available at Bully Pulpit Golf Course.

The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame preserves regional history through exhibits on Native American heritage, ranching practices, and rodeo traditions. This collection captures lesser-known stories of settlers and local cultures that visitors often miss.

Location: Billings County

Inception: 1883

Elevation above the sea: 691 m

Website: http://medorand.com

GPS coordinates: 46.91417,-103.52500

Latest update: December 17, 2025 10:40