A Storied Frontier History
Though named after President Theodore Roosevelt, the lodge was actually completed in 1920, seventeen years after his famous 1903 camping trip to the area. The site originally served as a tent camp known as “Camp Roosevelt,” catering to early automobile tourists who wanted a more rugged, affordable alternative to the park’s luxury hotels.
The dining room itself was built to capture the spirit of the rugged outdoorsmen and explorers like “Uncle” John Yancey, who operated a nearby mail station and saloon in the late 1800s. Today, the Roosevelt Lodge Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving the rustic “Parkitecture” that defines the North Country.
The Cowboy Menu: Signature Fare
The dining room is famous for its “stick-to-your-ribs” American comfort food. The menu leans heavily into Western flavors, featuring items that would satisfy a hungry ranch hand after a day on the trail.
- Roosevelt Baked Beans: Perhaps the most famous side dish in the park, these signature beans are a must-order.
- Applewood Smoked BBQ Ribs: Slow-cooked and glazed in house sauce, these are the centerpiece of the dinner menu.
- Wild Game Specialties: Depending on the season, the menu often features bison tamales, wild game Bolognese, or bison burgers.
- Roosevelt Saloon: Just steps away, the saloon serves local spirits and signature whiskey cocktails, perfect for a pre-dinner drink on the porch.
The Old West Dinner Cookout
For those seeking the ultimate Roosevelt experience, the lodge serves as the staging area for the Old West Dinner Cookout. Guests travel by horse or covered wagon to a scenic site in Pleasant Valley, where they enjoy a steak dinner cooked over an open fire, complete with cowboy coffee and live western music.
Planning Your Visit
Because of its popularity and relatively small size, dining at Roosevelt requires a bit of strategy.
| Feature | Details |
| Operating Season | Typically early June through early September. |
| Reservations | First-come, first-served for the dining room. (Reservations are required for the Cookout). |
| Atmosphere | Casual, family-friendly, and rustic. |
| Best Time to Go | Arrive early (before 5:00 PM) to avoid long waits during peak summer months. |
The “Porch Experience”
One of the most cherished traditions at Roosevelt is the wait for a table. Rather than pacing a lobby, guests typically grab a drink from the saloon and claim a hickory rocking chair on the wide front porch. It is considered one of the best spots in the park for people-watching and soaking in the quiet beauty of the northern range.