Theodore Roosevelt in May: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
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May is one of the best months of the year to visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park: crowds run 45% of the July peak (73,030 average visits), days average 67°F with 15 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in May
Theodore Roosevelt averages 73,030 recreation visits in May — 45% of what July, the peak month, draws. Plan lodging and entries with that in mind.
Weather & daylight
Daytime temperatures are comfortable (highs average 67°F), and mornings are chilly (lows average 41°F). Average precipitation is 2.6″ for the month. Mid-month daylight runs 15 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station MEDORA, ND US (5 mi from park coordinates, 2,268 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of May.
What to pack for Theodore Roosevelt in May
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Warm mid-layer (fleece or light puffy) — mornings average 41°F
- Packable rain jacket — 2.6″ of precipitation is normal this month
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
Common questions
Is Theodore Roosevelt crowded in May?
Moderately: May runs 45% of the July peak, averaging 73,030 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Theodore Roosevelt in May?
Average highs of 67°F, lows of 41°F, 2.6″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, MEDORA, ND US station).
What should I pack for Theodore Roosevelt in May?
Warm mid-layer (fleece or light puffy); Packable rain jacket; Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in May · Last verified 2026-07-16