Badlands National Park
Eroded spires and one of the richest fossil beds on Earth.
About this area
Badlands National Park protects over 244,000 acres of dramatically eroded buttes, spires, and canyons rising above the South Dakota prairie, alongside one of the richest fossil beds in the world. Cedar Pass Campground operates roughly April through October, while Sage Creek's primitive sites stay open year-round.
Park Size
244,300 acres
Elevation
2,365 ft to 3,340 ft
Best Time to Visit
Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct
Places to stay
Find your perfect campsite near Badlands National Park
Things to do
Badlands Loop Road
Drive 31 miles through the park's most dramatic formations, with overlooks at nearly every turn.
Door and Window Trails
Walk short boardwalk-to-dirt trails into the heart of the eroded formations without a long hike.
Fossil Exhibit Trail
See replicas of ancient rhinos, saber-toothed cats, and other fossils found throughout the park.
Night Sky Viewing
Badlands is an International Dark Sky Park, with ranger-led stargazing programs on clear summer nights.
Good to know (FAQ)
Cedar Pass Campground takes reservations in peak season; Sage Creek's primitive campground is first-come, first-served.
Yes, Cedar Pass Campground has full hookup sites; Sage Creek is better suited to tents and smaller rigs.
Yes, a park pass is required and can be purchased online or at entrance stations; America the Beautiful annual passes are accepted.
Leashed pets are allowed on roads, at overlooks, and in campgrounds, but not on maintained hiking trails.
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