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).

PICK YOUR ADVENTURE

The Badlands National Park has a wonderful guide that you can use with your girls on planning your adventure! It will guide you through the park offerings. Once their adventure is complete, your girls can earn a Junior Park Ranger patch (all ages).

Pick Your Adventure Here!

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.

Hike

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.

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.

Ranger Programs

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.

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.

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.

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.