Carbon County Museum | Rawlins

Bully Pulpit Golf Course is a public golf facility located in Medora, North Dakota.

Visual Characteristics

The course features 18 holes designed to integrate with the Badlands topography. Greens are bentgrass, while fairways and rough are primarily native grasses and prairie wildflowers. Sand bunkers are strategically placed throughout the layout. The elevation changes are significant, with holes playing from elevated tees to valley fairways.

Location & Access Logistics

The course is situated approximately 3 miles north of Medora, North Dakota, off State Highway 16. From Medora, take Highway 16 North. The entrance is clearly marked on the west side of the road. Ample parking is available at the clubhouse. No public transport services the course directly.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Designed by Dave Pelz, the course opened in 2004. It was conceived to utilize the natural contours of the North Dakota badlands, preserving the existing landscape as much as possible. The ecological origin is rooted in the Theodore Roosevelt National Park's badlands geology, characterized by eroded sedimentary rock formations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Playing the 18-hole golf course is the primary activity. Specific holes offer challenging elevation changes and strategic bunker placements. The course is known for its scenic views of the surrounding badlands. Practice facilities, including a driving range and putting green, are available.

Infrastructure & Amenities

A clubhouse with a pro shop and restaurant is present. Restrooms are available in the clubhouse and at select points on the course. Shade is limited on the course itself, primarily found near the clubhouse and cart paths. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available, though it can be intermittent in certain low-lying areas of the course.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time for playing golf is from late spring (May) through early fall (October), avoiding the extreme winter conditions. Mid-morning offers good lighting for photography without harsh midday shadows. The course is typically open from sunrise to sunset, weather permitting.

Facts & Legends

The course's name, "Bully Pulpit," is a reference to Theodore Roosevelt's description of the presidency as a "bully pulpit." A unique aspect of the course design is the integration of native prairie grasses, which require less water and maintenance, reflecting a commitment to the local environment.

Nearby Landmarks

• Theodore Roosevelt National Park - South Unit (0.5km South)
• Maltese Cross Cabin (1km South)
• Chateau de Mores State Historic Site (3km South)
• Medora Musical Amphitheater (3km South)
• Painted Canyon Visitor Center (10km West)