Badlands National Park Transitions Into Winter

Visitation to Badlands National Park for the month of October, 2003 was down approximately 8.5% over 2002 figures. 35,712 visits were counted this year, contrasted to 39,023 last year. Visitation for the year continues to be lower than last year - approximately 4% lower than 2002 year. As the holiday season approaches, the staff of Badlands National Park reminds visitors that the Ben Reifel Visitor Center will be closed on Thanksgiving Day (November 27), Christmas Day (December 25), and New Years Day (January 1). Additionally, the visitor center will close at noon on December 24. Other than these dates, the Ben Reifel Visitor Center will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Badlands Natural History Association, a non-profit partner with Badlands National Park, operates the bookstore in the visitor center. Posters, books, and other items make great holiday gifts. Stop by the Ben Reifel Visitor Center for your Badlands gifts.

The Cedar Pass Lodge is closed for the season. The closest lodging is in the communities of Wall and Kadoka. The closest groceries are available in the town of Interior, 2 miles from park headquarters at Cedar Pass. Fuel is available in Interior and at exit 131 of Interstate 90 (Cactus Flat). The entrance stations are closed for the season. A fee machine is available in front of the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Fees are not collected by the staff inside the Center.