Thing to Do

Visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center

Badlands National Park

a sign reading ben reifel visitor center sits in front of jagged badlands formations.

Badlands National Park

a sign reading ben reifel visitor center sits in front of a road and badlands formations, all bathed in a warm sunset glow.
While visiting the North Unit, be sure to stop by the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

NPS Photo

a bearded park ranger smiles from behind a tall desk with a map of the park on the wall behind him.
Park rangers at the front desk are ready to assist visitors with any question.

NPS Photo

Information Desk

At the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, visitors to Badlands National Park can get answers to their questions from rangers at the information desk. There, park staff can distribute maps and other park materials, provide directions and local area orientation, hand out Junior Ranger booklets, and answer any questions you might have about earth science, wildlife, history, and more. There is also a self-serve passport stamping station at the information desk.

If you're not stopping by the Ben Reifel Visitor Center during your trip to the Badlands, you can also access rangers at the White River Center, via email, or by calling (605) 433-5361.

Museum Exhibits & Park Film

Whether you're curious about what you've already seen in the park or you're just arriving and want to get a preview, you're sure to learn something new in the Ben Reifel Visitor Center's museum exhibits. From the mosasaurs which swam through the Badlands area 75 million years ago to more recent history with the Lakota who live south of the park today, these exhibits cover a vast time period and all of the different stories which come together to make the Badlands special. These exhibits include audio-visual elements and tactile displays.

At the visitor center, you can also catch the park film, The Land of Stone and Light. In the spring, summer, and fall, the park film runs on a 25-minute loop. In the winter, the park film is shown as requested -- just ask the ranger at the front desk to play it for you. Captions and audio-descriptions are available on the park's multimedia webpage. Ask the rangers at the desk about these options when you visit.

a paleontologist uses delicate tools to work on a fossil skull under a spotlight.
Paleontologists at the Fossil Prep Lab work on fossils right before your eyes.

NPS Photo

Fossil Preparation Lab

If you're interested in the paleontology of Badlands National Park, don't miss the Fossil Preparation Lab. There, you can chat with park paleontologists as they gradually remove rock from specimens to reveal fossils. Park rangers are also available in the lab to answer any questions you may have about the incredible fossil animals of the Badlands. With millions of years of fossil history recorded in the park's rock formations, there are plenty of fossils to learn about!
a store filled with stocked bookshelves, souvenirs, and t shirts.
The BNHA bookstore features books on the park, apparel, and all sorts of souvenirs.

NPS Photo / Alex Ennes

Park Bookstore

At the Badlands Natural History Association Bookstore, you can purchase books to learn more about the park as well as souveniers to remind you of your time at the Badlands. Badlands Natural History Association uses all profits to support park programs like internships, volunteering, and more.

Who was Ben Reifel?

Benjamin Reifel, also known as Lone Feather, was the first Congressman elected with Lakota heritage, representing South Dakota’s 1st congressional district. Mr. Reifel belonged to the Brule (or Burnt Thigh) tribe. He was also the only Native American Congressman during the 1960’s. He served 5 terms from 1961-1971.

Reifel decided not to seek reelection in 1971, but still remained in government service during the administrations of President Richard Nixon and President Gerald Ford. During this interval, he spent time serving as Special Assistant for Indian programs to the Director of the National Park Service.

Last updated: June 29, 2022