Badlands National Park, located in South Dakota, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone seeking a unique and stunning landscape. With its dramatic rock formations, rich fossil beds, and diverse wildlife, the park offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Lets answer some of these questions: Where to stay near badlands? How long is the badlands loop? What is there to do in the badlands?
Here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most out of your trip to Badlands National Park.
Getting There
Badlands National Park is easily accessible by car. The nearest major airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), approximately 70 miles west of the park. From Rapid City, you can rent a car and take I-90 East to reach the park. The drive itself is scenic, setting the stage for the beauty that awaits.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is about an hour and half or 85 miles from Badlands National Park.
There are two units of the Badlands National Park. The north unit which is more popular and easily accessible by driving and the south unit which is less-accessible and are in the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are mild and the weather is generally pleasant. Summers can be hot with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while winters can be cold and snowy.
I traveled there in September, it was hot during the day but cool in the evenings.
Entrance Fees
- Private Vehicle: $30 (valid for 7 days)
- Motorcycle: $25 (valid for 7 days)
- Individual (on foot or bicycle): $15 (valid for 7 days)
- Annual Park Pass: $55
When visiting any new National Park I always recommend starting at the visitor center for information and education on the park. Note the hours and days the center is open change with the seasons.
- Ben Reifel Visitor Center — Main Visitor Center
- National Grasslands Visitor Center
- White River Visitor Center
Where to Stay
Inside the Park
- Cedar Pass Lodge: The only lodging within the park, offering cabins with stunning views and easy access to hiking trails.
- Cedar Pass Campground: Equipped with basic amenities and located near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
- Sage Creek Campground: A free, primitive campground offering a more rugged experience with no running water.
Nearby Accommodations:
- Wall, SD: A small town just outside the park with several motels, hotels, and restaurants.
- Rapid City, SD: A larger city offering a wide range of accommodations, dining, and entertainment options. About 75 miles and 1 hour west of the park.
Where to Eat
There is one place to get food in the park Cedar Pass Lodge. Located just passed the Ben Reifel Visitor center.
There are restaurants of differing quality in Wall and the Interior. Make sure you pack snacks and water!
We tried a place in the Interior called Wagon Wheel Bar. It was a dive but I loved every second of it.
Things to do in Badlands National Park:
Scenic Drives:
- Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240): A 31-mile drive with numerous overlooks and pullouts offering breathtaking views of the park’s iconic landscapes. Key stops include Big Badlands Overlook, Yellow Mounds Overlook, and Pinnacles Overlook. You can drive this in an hour if you are in a hurry. We spent all day driving the loop, stopping at each trail along the way.
- Sage Creek Rim Road: A gravel road that offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience with chances to see bison and pronghorn. Located west of HWY 240, this is where most backcountry hikers and campers go. Note there is almost no shade and no water in this portion of the park. If you plan to visit I would recommend talking with a park ranger at the visitor center on how best to be prepared.
Hiking Trails:
- Notch Trail: A moderately challenging 1.5-mile round trip hike featuring a ladder climb and rewarding views of the White River Valley.
- Castle Trail: The longest trail in the park at 10 miles round trip, taking you through prairies and past impressive rock formations.
- Window Trail: A short, easy 0.25-mile trail leading to a natural window in the rock formations.
- Door Trail: A 0.75-mile trail that takes you through a break in the Badlands Wall to a surreal landscape beyond.
Click below for a map, but I highly recommend stopping at the visitor center to get a more detailed map.
Wildlife Watching:
What animals can be found in Badlands National Park?
Bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and pronghorn: Commonly spotted throughout the park, especially along Sage Creek Rim Road and at Pinnacles Overlook.
Don’t forget to pack your binoculars!
Fossil Hunting:
Fossil Exhibit Trail: An easy, accessible trail where you can see replicas of fossils and learn about the park’s prehistoric past. Ranger-led fossil talks are also available during the summer.
Ranger Programs:
Guided hikes, talks, and evening programs: Available during peak season and offer educational insights into the park’s geology, wildlife, and history. Check in at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to check the schedule.
Photography Tips:
- Golden Hours: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for capturing the park’s stunning landscapes.
- Wildlife: Bring a camera, if you have one, that can zoom in on distant animals without disturbing them.
- Night Sky: Badlands National Park is a designated dark sky park, making it perfect for astrophotography. Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph the Milky Way.
Tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
- Dress in Layers: Weather can change quickly; layers will help you stay comfortable.
- Wear Sturdy Footwear: Trails can be rocky and uneven, so good hiking boots are recommended.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Get a Map: The park is huge and the landscape can seem the same. Stop by the ranger station and get a map
- Pets are permitted in Badlands National Park but they are restricted on some trails in some areas.
Badlands National Park is a land of contrasts and surprises, offering a unique glimpse into both the past and the present. Whether you’re hiking through its rugged terrain, marveling at its geological formations, or simply soaking in a sunset, the Badlands promise an unforgettable adventure. Happy travels!
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