Buffalo Gap Guest Ranch

Saw Buffalo Gap on this app, it looked like the perfect place to make a quick stop to take in the scenery and purchase gifs and souvenirs, but it appeared to be shut down. Aside from one vehicle leaving as we approached, we were the only souls there. The two buildings on each side, one seemed to be a motel and the other maybe restaurant and gift shop, all closed— no one present at all.

This place is off the beaten path, quite literally. Only 15 minutes west of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, you take an exit off the highway then drive over a mile down a dirt road to reach the ranch. Careful at night though, as the cows are free range in this area. We almost hit one coming back late from the park.
A really unique location. The hotel portion is styled like an old west town. Behind the restaurant is a gorgeous view of the Badlands with a communal fire pit. Wishing we could have used it when we stayed. You have to go into the restaurant to check in, which wasn’t clearly marked. All the staff sounded like they were from another country. In fact, all over Medora, the town outside Theodore Roosevelt NP, you saw that. No information was given as to what service were offered, where they were located, or when they even happened. We had to figure it out on our own over the trip or ask around.

The campground portions left much to be desired with spots lined tightly together. They were relatively level and had full hookups.
The view on the other hand was incredible. This is really why you come here, for the remoteness and the scenery.
The showers were hot with good pressure, but none had curtains right at the shower, only further out to keep people out, and they lacked any kind of bench, hook, or the likes. Overall, and despite any of these nuisances, we really enjoyed our 4 night stay. The place was quite, remote, and gorgeous, just like all of North Dakota.

There was nothing available in Medora and we intended to boondock around the TRNP but with temps reaching closer to 100, we needed electric for air. Had tickets for the 5:30 Medora Musicsl and thought we would park, then drive back into town for the show but after 1 mile on severe washboard gravel road, we gave up on going back on that road 3 more times! There is no shade here and yes, the scenery is wild and remote with accompanying flies. But we have electric! Bar was open but restaurant is not. Sites are close together but no one is here, yet burly man came around in a pick up and informed us we parked the wrong way!

perfect for an overnight between two days visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Lots of shrubs between sites for complete privacy. Quite large which was perfect to walk the dog.

About the park itself, we were pleasantly surprised what a great park this is. Both short and longer hikes. Lots of wildlife! Bison, big horn sheep, pronghorn and beautiful scenery particularly in the fall. Recommend a visit.

Unable to find camping available everywhere else we tried. It was end of July and you need reservations for the campgrounds. Anything close to town was booked long before. This place was basically empty with only a couple of other campers at any time. Not sure why. Kind of off the beaten path. 1 mile of dirt road that was not bad. We only wanted electric so sites with electric and water were $25 and full hookup was $40. No shade available. Just down the road with highway noise is Buffalo Gap Campground for $20 for disperse camping. The Guest Ranch also has rooms and small cabins to rent, which looked busier but don’t know the price. The Ranch looks like a small western town. Will also board horses if you are traveling with them. There is a western bar and restaurant on the grounds. Enjoyed a drink and appetizer. It is peaceful and the views are beautiful. Close to Medora and Theodore Roosevelt Park.

We stayed 3 nights and it was safe and quiet. The outlying landscaped is nice and peaceful, but the ranch itself has machinery and workshops around. People were friendly, the food was good, but there isn’t anything fancy. We had an electric site only, but there are full-hookup and pull-through sites too. I can say that it is well located for going to Modera and the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. It served it’s purpose well, and the price was right.

Not the best campground I’ve stayed in. It’s extremely run down and in need of some TLC or new owners. Landscape is mostly rough gravel and weeds. No shade. Funky water hookup, you need to adjust your male and female end of hose to hook properly. Shower house is over run with all sorts of bugs, there’s not even a walk way up to the door. Ladies side of showers aren’t even labeled. Positives are good cell signal, close to TR national park and the restaurant looks very cute and homey. Casino and pool table in the restaurant. There’s a lot of potential, hopefully someone who actually cares about running a business will take over and make this place awesome! For $40/night I wouldn’t stay again.

Basically a flat gravel spot with full hook-up, great views of the Badlands, good spacing between sites. Very peaceful.