Visit the White River Visitor Center

The White River Visitor Center is the main facility in the South Unit of the park. Be sure to stop by to pick up maps, enjoy museum exhibits, and chat with rangers about the significance of the Badlands and treaties in Lakota heritage. 

Details

Duration

15-60 Minutes

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are prohibited in the White River Visitor Center unless they are a certified service animal. Emotional support animals are not service animals and are not allowed in the visitor center.

Pets are permitted in Badlands National Park with some restrictions. Pets must be kept on a leash no more than six feet in length at all times. Pets are only permitted in developed areas, such as campgrounds and picnic areas, and other areas open to motor vehicles, such as gravel and paved roadways, roadway corridors, and parking lots. Pets are prohibited from hiking trails, public buildings (i.e. visitor centers), and backcountry areas, including the Badlands Wilderness Area, and areas with prairie dog colonies. Pet etiquette dictates always cleaning up animal waste and disposing of it in trash receptacles.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

The White River Visitor Center is open seasonally, typically May through October.

Time of Day

Day

The White River Visitor Center is typically open from 8am-5pm.

Accessibility Information

The White River Visitor Center includes ramp entrances and spacious museum exhibits for those who use wheelchairs.

Ask rangers at the front desk about audio-described and text-only brochures.

Certified service animals are the only animals allowed in the visitor center. Emotional support animals are not service animals and are not allowed in the building.

Stop by the White River Visitor Center to learn more about the South Unit of Badlands National Park.

NPS Photo

Addresses

Directions

Hours & Seasons

Description

Closures & Seasonal Exceptions

Amenities

Contact Information

Image Gallery

The National Park Service comanages the South Unit of the Badlands with the Oglala Lakota Tribe to properly protect and interpret Lakota heritage.

NPS Photo

The White River Visitor Center in the South Unit is a great place to visit if you want to explore the cultural significance of Badlands National Park. You can speak with rangers about the Badlands in Lakota heritage, learn about the history of the area through museum exhibits, pick up maps, and get your passport stamped.

Rangers at the White River Visitor Center offer impromptu historical and cultural talks and programs. Ask a ranger if there is a program being offered when you stop by!