Busy Holiday Weekend Reminds us to Visit National Parks Safely

As Fourth of July weekend approaches, many of us are making plans to visit some of the public lands of western South Dakota such as Badlands National Park. The National Park Service reminds potential visitors to plan ahead and prepare for your visit. Those planning on coming to the Badlands should keep in mind:

• Like the rest of the region, the park is experiencing severe drought conditions. Fireworks or open campfires are never permitted in the park but this year, due to the extreme dry prairie conditions, it is of particular importance that visitors maintain vigilance by insuring smoking materials are fully extinguished and placed in receptacles.

• Those planning on hiking, cycling, or other outdoor activities should bring one gallon of water per person per day. Additionally, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for protection from the intense sun.

• Bicyclists should wear helmets at all times while riding in the park and remember that wheeled vehicles are permitted only on designated roads. There is no off-road or trail riding allowed.

• People on vacation are usually tightly budgeted - both by expenditure of money and time. Slow down. Observe the speed limits. Remember that many vehicles will be driving well below the speed limit.

• The greatest danger to park wildlife is your vehicle. Keep an eye out for all types and sizes of wildlife – from birds to bison. Protect the resources that make these places special.

• The Cedar Pass Campground, a first come, first served facility, typically fills up on the holiday weekends by 4 p.m. Arrive in plenty of time if you plan on camping. Three private camping facilities are located within 10 miles of park headquarters.

To plan your visit to Badlands National Park, visit the park virtually at http://www.nps.gov/badl Additionally, planning materials can be purchased in advance from Badlands Natural History Association, the park’s non-profit partner, by contacting (605) 433 - 5489. A partial listing of sales items is also available at the park’s website.