Through law enforcement, search and rescue, wildland firefighting, and emergency medical services, we protect the visitors and resources of Wind Cave National Park. Search and RescueFrom time to time a visitor may get lost in the cave or in the backcountry. When this occurs it is our duty to find them. Wind Cave is the only cave in the park open to the public and is a complex system of passageways. The cave is closed to visitors without a guide. Backcountry travel on the prairie may be confusing at times. Be sure to take a map and compass/GPS with you. Be aware that you GPS does not locate the park's visitor center in the correct spot. The visitor center is located about 1 mile off US Hwy 385. Wildland FirefightingPrescribed burns are an integral part of the park's management plan.Sometimes, however, a wildfire starts from a lightning strike or other means, and park staff may have to intervene. Check with a ranger to learn about local fire restrictions during your visit. Emergency Medical ServicesEvery member of park staff is trained in CPR and first aid, including the use of AEDs.Many of our Visitor and Resource Protection staff also are certified as EMTs. To ensure the safety of all our visitors and staff, we invite folks with special needs to arrange special cave tours either ahead of time or at the front desk. Law EnforcementVisitor and resource protection staff enforce all federal rules and regulations from United States Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 36, Parks, Forests, and Public Property, United States Code Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure, and all applicable South Dakota state laws. You are responsible for knowing the rules and regulations of each national park you visit. Failure to comply with such rules and regulations may result in a citation and applicable fine and/or time served. Click following links for 36CFR regulations, USC 18, Superintendent's Compendium, and South Dakota State Codified Laws. Traffic LawsAll state traffic laws are strictly enforced. In addition, federal law mandates that you are required to wear a seat belt at all times while in a moving vehicle within a national park. Stopping or standing in the roadway and obstructing traffic can be a dangerous practice. If you decide to take a photo of the beautiful scenery and wildlife at Wind Cave, please pull off the road before you do so. Be sure to look for traffic before you exit your vehicle for any reason. There have been many close calls for people who just had to have that great shot. Slow down and enjoy the scenery! HuntingHunting is not allowed within Wind Cave National Park. Transporting lawfully taken wildlife directly through the park (without stopping) on paved highways is permitted. CollectingTaking rocks, fossils, antler sheds and other park resources is prohibited and strictly enforced. These resources are protected for the enjoyment of current and future generations. The antlers and rocks in this photo were collected illegally by visitors over the course of two days. |
Last updated: August 29, 2023