• Wind Cave National Park - Two Worlds

    Wind Cave

    National Park South Dakota

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  • Elk Mountain Campground Closed

    The Elk Mountain Campground is closed and will remain closed through the summer of 2013 due to across the board budget cuts.

Fire Restrictions Put in Place at Wind Cave National Park

Fire buring up a slope next to Highway 385.
To prevent the spread of wildfires, Wind Cave National Park has put in place fire restrictions.
NPS Photo

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Date: June 29, 2012
Contact: Tom Farrell, 605-745-1130

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. - For the second time this year, Wind Cave National Park has implemented fire restrictions due to extreme fire conditions in the park. To ensure public safety and to provide the highest degree of protection to park resources, the National Park Service is implementing the following restrictions:

  • Developed areas including the Elk Mountain Campground, Visitor Center, park residences, offices, picnic grounds, and paved highways: Open fires on the ground, in fire grates, or charcoal grills are prohibited. Gas stoves in or on fire resistant containers are permitted in designated campsites and designated picnic sites.No smoking is allowed except in vehicles or on paved/concrete parking areas next to the visitor center or maintenance garages.
  • Backcountry areas: All backcountry areas within the park are closed to camping.

These restrictions will be effective until the threat of wildland fire decreases significantly.

There are no fire-related roads or trail closures in effect at this time, and Wind Cave National Park remains open.

For more information, please call the park at 605/745-4600.

Did You Know?

Stemless Hymenoxys

The scientific name for the Stemless Hymenoxys is Hymemoxys acaulis.  Acaulis means "stemless" and referes to the leafless stalks which bear the flower heads. More...