Things to Do
If you've never been to the Badlands National Park area, there is so much to see and do! Here are some ideas and tips for planning your adventure! Look through some of the options below and then, if you want more help, check out some possible itineraries (coming soon).
The Badlands
August is a hot and dry month at the Badlands. On average, the high is 91 and the low is 61 with rain on only 4 days. Because of the heat, it's best to plan outdoor activities in the morning or in the late afternoon. There is no shade or water sources on the hiking trails so be prepared.
Badlands North Unit
The North Unit is the most popular unit and the closest to where we'll be camping. Ranger programs in this area focus on geology.
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Click the image above to see a nice summary of trails by Earth Trekkers. You can also see a list of trails on the official park site. Get your maps at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
Stop by the Ben Reifel Visitor Center for maps, patches, to watch a movie, see the museum and visit the book store! It's got air conditioning and restrooms and is a nice break from the sun.
The Rangers are awesome! This program offers guided walks, a Junior Ranger Program, talks, and even night programs. Their offerings are on the website and daily lists at the Visitor Center.
Drive the Scenic Loops
Tired of walking? The Badlands North Unit offers multiple scenic driving routes. You can drive Sage Creek Rim Road and the Badlands Loop Road. Watch for wildife!
Badlands South Unit
The South Unit is about 50 miles from our campsite. Head out for a drive around the south unit and stop at the White River Visitor Center. This visitor center focuses on the cultural significance of the Badlands in the Lakota heritage and is a nice tie-in if you're planning to visit the Wind Cave National Park on this trip (be sure to listen to the Lakota emergence story).
Don't miss these nearby attractions!
There are many other things to do close by. Check out some of these fun adventures!
Minuteman Missile
A National Historic Site hidden in plain sight. You can earn a "missileer patch" and also tour the launch facilities. You will need a reservation for a tour.
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There is no entrance fee; There are fees ($12 adult / $6 youth) for guided tours.
Prairie Dogs
There are two places to see prairie dogs: Roberts Prairie Dog Town inside the park and The Ranch Store where you can buy peanuts and feed them.
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No entrance fee at either. A few dollars for peanuts at The Ranch Store.
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Wall Drug
A must on any visit! It's got a huge store, restaurant, ice cream. Bring your spending money and plan to spend some time exploring the store.
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Bring money!
The Black Hills
So much more adventure to be had within 1 - 2 hours drive of our campsite!
Wind Cave
National Park
Visit one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. If you went to the White River Visitor Center to learn about the Badlands and the history of the Lakota, be sure to ask more questions here!
No entrance fee; additional fees for guided tours.
Mount Rushmore
National Memorial
Visit an iconic site. The site offers multiple programs.
There is no entrance fee. There is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle.
Crazy Horse
Memorial
Explore the history of the North American Indians at the largest mountain carving in the world.
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Entrance Fee: $35.00 for 3 or more people in a vehicle with optional $5pp for trip to base of mountain.
Bear Country USA
Drive Through Park
See black bears, elk, reindeer, and more!​
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Entrance Fee:
$22.00 pp ages 13&up
$17pp for ages 5 - 12
$80 max fee per car
Horse Back Riding
Trail Rides in the Black Hills
Two of the most popular from Trip Advisor are The Stables at Palmer Gulch (with a dinner show option) and Rockin R Trail Rides.
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Fees: $55 & up depending on length of trail ride
Rush Mountain
Adventure Park
Go spelunking, ride a coaster, try a zipride and more at the adventure park in Keystone, SD.
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Fees:
Caves: $21.50 (13+)/$16.50 (5-12)
All The Things: $125 / $120 pp
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Rushmore Tramway Adventures
Adventure Park
Go ziplining, alpine sliding, conquer high ropes, and more at this adventure park in Keystone, SD.
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Fees:
Most Things: $95(10+) / $90 (5-9)