• Badlands formations against the blue sky; photo by Rikk Flohr

    Badlands

    National Park South Dakota

Good Times at the Badlands

The rugged beauty of the Badlands draws visitors from around the world. These striking geologic deposits contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. Ancient mammals such as the rhino, horse, and saber-toothed cat once roamed here. The park’s 244,000 acres protect an expanse of mixed-grass prairie where bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets live today.

Features

  • Badlands Loop Road with formations in the background

    Planning A Trip?

    Find out what you need to know. Information for camping, hiking, and much more. Download the Badlands Visitors Guide to take with you.

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  • using a GPS unit to explore the Badlands

    GPS Adventure

    Coming to Badlands with a GPS? Take a look at the new GPS Adventure booklet. Complete at least four activities and earn a patch!

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  • Female visitor enjoys solitude in the badlands photo by Larry McAfee

    Take Us With You

    Badlands videos and photos are available to download onto your mobile devices or computers. Check us out at YouTube, iTunes, Twitter, and Flickr.

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  • junior rangers

    Become a Junior Ranger

    Explore! Learn! Protect! That’s the Jr Ranger motto. Complete a booklet or attend a program to earn a badge.

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  • Five people hike through grassland with badlands formations in the background

    Take a Hike

    A variety of hiking trails offer something for everyone. Select the trail that’s right for you.

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Did You Know?

Ben Reifel speaking at the Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater - 1971

The Ben Reifel Visitor Center was named after Ben Reifel, the first congressman from the Sioux Nation, who served 5 terms. Afterwards, he served as consultant and Special Assistant for Indian Programs to the Director of the National Park Service. Badlands was his favorite national park.