Header showing the electronic signature of Acting Superintendent Milton Haar on May 1, 2025.
Wind Cave National Park rules and regulations are all listed in the Superintendent's Compendium which can be found on this page below.
The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the Wind Cave National Park.
For further questions please contact the park, 605-745-4600.
Approved by: Milton Haar, Acting Superintendent
Recommended by: Jennifer Jackson, Chief Ranger
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Superintendent’s Compendium Of Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements and Other Restrictions Imposed Under Discretionary Authority.
Wind Cave National Park
26611 US Hwy 385
Hot Springs, SD 57747
605-745-1151 phone
605-745-4207 fax
Superintendent's Compendium
Introduction
1. Superintendent's Compendium Described
The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park. The Superintendent’s Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles, which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.
The regulations contained in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, are the basic mechanism used by the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park and to protect visitors and property within the park. Parts 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all areas of the National Park System, and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each of these Parts has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Within some of these Part 1-7 sections and subsections, the Superintendent is granted discretionary authority to develop local rules to be responsive to the needs of a specific park resource or activity, park plan, program, and/or special needs of the general public.
As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a) Closures and Public Use Limits provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or disallowing certain activities. The authority granted by the Section, however, requires the Superintendent to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act (6 USC Section 551), which requires public notice on actions with major impact on visitor use patterns, park resources or those that are highly controversial in nature.
Another example is 36 CFR 1.6 Permits, which allows the Superintendent to require a permit for certain uses and activities in the park. This Section, however, requires that a list of activities needing a permit (and a fee schedule for the various types of permits) be maintained by the park.
A final example is 36 CFR 2.1(c) (1) Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources, which provides the Superintendent the authority to designate certain fruits, nuts, berries, or unoccupied seashells which may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption. This activity can occur, however, only if a written determination shows that the allowed activity does not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.
This Compendium should be used in conjunction with Title 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, to more fully understand the regulations governing the use and enjoyment of all the areas of the National Park System.
A copy of Title 36, CFR, can be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office at: www.gpo.gov
or
Superintendent of Documents
P.O. Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
The CFR is also available on the Internet at: www.ecfr.gov.
2. Laws and Policies Allowing the Superintendent to Develop This Compendium
The National Park Service (NPS) is granted broad statutory authority under Title 54 United States Code (U.S.C.) §100101(a) (formerly 16 U.S.C. 1a-1, “Organic Act”) to “….regulate the use of the National Park System by means and measures that conform to the fundamental purpose of the System units, which purpose is to conserve the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wild life in the System units and to provide for the enjoyment of the scenery, natural and historic objects, and wildlife in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” In addition, Title 54 U.S.C. §100751(a) allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to “prescribe such regulations as the Secretary considers necessary or proper for the use and management of System units.”
In 1970, Congress amended the NPS Organic Act to clarify its intentions as to the overall mission of the NPS. Through the General Authorities Act of 1970, Congress brought all areas administered by the NPS into one National Park System and directed the NPS to manage all areas under its administration consistent with the Organic Act of 1916.
In 1978, Congress amended the General Authorities Act of 1970 and reasserted System-wide the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating “Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various areas of the National Park System, as defined by Section 1 of this Title, shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by Section 1 of this Title, to the common benefit of all people of the United States.”
In addition to the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is guided by established NPS policy as found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). The Superintendent is also guided by more specific policies promulgated by the Director, National Park Service, in the form of Director’s Orders. As stated in the Management Policies, the primary responsibility of the NPS is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the enjoyment of these resources by visitor and other users, as long as use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource-based and will vary from park to park; therefore, a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may not be appropriate in another. The Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, where the Superintendent has a reasonable basis to believe a resource is or would become impaired, then that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.
3. Consistency of This Compendium with Applicable Federal Law and Requirements
The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor impose a significant cost on any local, state, or tribal government or private organization, and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.
The actions and requirements described in this Compendium are found to be categorically excluded from further compliance with the procedural requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in Department of the Interior (DOI) Guidelines 516 DM 6 and as such, an Environmental Assessment will not be prepared.
4. Development of the Requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium
As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority and responsibility to determine what types of uses and activities are appropriate in any particular National Park System area. The requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium are developed through an analysis and determination process. The decision criteria used during this process are:
Is the use or activity consistent with the NPS Organic Act and NPS policy?
Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
Will the use or activity damage the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection actions and values?
Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?
5. Applicability of the Compendium
The rules contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on Federally owned lands, including submerged lands, and waters administered by the NPS within the legislative boundaries of the park. This includes all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters.
6. Enforcement of Compendium Requirements
NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of the United State Code, 36 CFR, and this Superintendent’s Compendium.
7. Penalties for Not Adhering to the Compendium Requirements
A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of this Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings. You may receive a list of fines associated with any particular provision by contacting the Chief Ranger at the park address found below.
8. Comments on the Compendium
The Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The park welcomes comments about its program and activities at any time. Written comments on the Compendium may be submitted to:
Superintendent
Wind Cave National Park
26611 US Hwy 385
Hot Springs, SD 57747
9. Effective Date of the Superintendent's Compendium
The Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the first page of this document and remains in effect until revised for a period up to one year.
10. Additional Information
Some of the terms used in this Compendium may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.
In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 54 U.S.C. §100751, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Wind Cave National Park. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.
Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.
Section I. - 36 CFR §1.5 -Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, Closures, and Area Designations for Specific Use or Activities
(a)(1) Visiting hours and public use limits for portions of the park
The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:
Visiting Hours:
Visitor Center Summer: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm (subject to change due to staffing)
Visitor Center Winter: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (subject to change due to staffing)
Visitor Center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Picnic area: open ½ hour before sunrise, closed ½ hour after sunset
Public Use Limits:
Minimum Age Limitations
All Cave Areas: Persons under the age of 12 are prohibited from entering any cave except when accompanied by, and under the direct supervision of, a responsible adult 18 years of age or older.
Wild Cave Tour: Minimum age – 16 years
Candlelight Tour: Minimum age – 8 years
Determination: Due to their complexity, the Wild Cave and Candlelight Tours require a higher level of skill and attention to direction. The routes are slippery with uneven surfaces and the Candlelight Tour is navigated by candlelight
Closures:
All service and administrative roads are closed to non-authorized vehicle and bicycle use except when authorized by the superintendent. Service and administrative roads shall be designated with signs or gates.
These roads include the Mixing Circle Road, Upper Housing Loop, Reservoir Access Road, Wind Cave Canyon Road, Chlorinator Road, Bison Corral Road, Area 51 access road and Song Dog Road.
Lower Housing Loop is closed from Labor Day to Memorial Day or when overflow parking procedures are not in place.
All caves within Wind Cave National Park are closed to public use, except by authorized permit.
Sanson Ranch is closed to foot traffic unless accessing it from 26846 US Highway 385, Hot Springs, SD.
The following areas are closed to the public:
The Wind Cave National Park firearms range. The Superintendent may grant permission for use of the range to other authorized agents/agencies in accordance with the park’s Firearms Range Standard Operating Procedure.
The Wind Cave National Park sewage lagoons and treatment areas
The Wind Cave National Park bison corrals and buildings
The Rankin Ridge Fire Tower
All water treatment areas
Determination: Limited public vehicle access on park service and administrative roads provide for public safety, protect natural and cultural resources, protect park equipment, and provide privacy for park residents. Cave closures protect sensitive cave resources and provide for public safety.
On September 22, 2011, Wind Cave National Park received an addition of land of 5556 acres bordering the southern boundary of the park. This land is known as the Casey addition. This land is open to foot traffic only and access is limited to the pedestrian gate located at 26846 US Highway 385, Hot Springs, SD.
Determination: The land is closed to uses other than foot traffic due to the need for further archeological and cultural surveys and determination of resource sensitivities. The park must complete ongoing tribal consultation and additional public scoping before opening occurs for other uses.
Unmanned Aircraft:
Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Wind Cave National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
Definition: Unmanned Aircraft (UA) - The term "unmanned aircraft" means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Determination: Following National Park Service Policy Memorandum 14-05, the Superintendent has determined that unmanaged or unrestricted recreational use of UAs within Wind Cave National Park will conflict with, or impact, a variety of park uses including visitor experience and wildlife.
Strollers: Strollers, baby carriages, and similar devices are prohibited in all caves except as necessary for children with mobility issues, they are allowed on an accessibility tour.
Segway: Segway and similar large mobility devices are prohibited in Wind Cave.
Wheelchairs / Rollator Walkers (Four-wheeled walkers with resting seat): Wheelchairs and similar devices are prohibited in Wind Cave except for accessibility tours.
Walking Sticks: The possession and/or use of a walking stick within the cave is prohibited, except for those individuals with limited mobility. Visitors with walking sticks must only use them on the paved trail and are required to have a rubber or soft tip.
Food Consumption
The possession or consumption of food (including gum, candy, tobacco products) or drink is prohibited in any cave unless authorized in cave special use or research permits.
Persons with medical conditions requiring them to consume food and drink while they’re in the cave are permitted.
Infants under 12 months may nurse or consume formula.
Cave survey and restoration projects may involve extensive travel and/or multiple day expeditions and food use will be permitted for the health and safety of cave workers in specific permitted instances.
Backpacks, bags, and purses
Backpacks, backpack child carriers, bags and purses are prohibited within all caves in Wind Cave National Park. This excludes cave packs used for surveying and exploration under park permitted research.
Tripods, Bi-pods, Monopods and Selfie-Sticks
Use of these devices is prohibited within all caves in Wind Cave National Park.
Footwear
Hard soled footwear is required while travelling within all caves in Wind Cave National Park.
Disposal of Human Waste
Disposal of human waste (urine/feces/vomit) is prohibited in all caves
Touching of Cave Surfaces
Touching of cave surfaces is prohibited within all caves in Wind Cave National Park.
Determination: The cave environment consists of narrow passages, low and variable ceiling heights, stairs, steep inclines, and wet and uneven surfaces. These conditions for cave tours are necessary to protect visitors from injury and to protect fragile cave resources from inadvertent damage.
Bus idling
Bus idling is prohibited in all areas of the park except during the loading and unloading of passengers.
Determination: The idling of bus engines adds unnecessary exhaust fumes to the air and diminishes the enjoyment by visitors of the peace and tranquility of the park.
Flying Kites and Remote Model Airplanes
Flying kites and remote model airplanes is prohibited in the park
Determination: Based on park management documents and founding legislation, the use of kites and model airplanes would intrude on the visual and soundscapes of the park.
Wildlife-Human Interactions
To protect visitors and park wildlife, the following are prohibited:
Willfully approaching, remaining, viewing, or engaging in any activity:
Within 25 yards of any wildlife unless when completely inside a legally positioned motor vehicle.
Within any distance that displaces or interferes with the free and unimpeded movement of any wildlife.
Within any distance that creates or contributes to a potentially hazardous condition or situation.
Failing to remove oneself to prescribed distances during inadvertent, accidental or surprise encounters with wildlife.
Determination: Animals inside Wind Cave are managed in a wild setting and their behavior is unpredictable. Approaching any wildlife can be stressful to the animals and dangerous to humans. The NPS has documented numerous cases of both bison and elk encounters resulting in serious injuries when visitors approach elk or bison within 25 yards.
Backcountry Trails
Backcountry trails may be temporarily closed when trail conditions are such that use may be hazardous to the visiting public (e.g., rockslides, flooding, fire).
Other portions of Wind Cave National Park are subject to closure or restriction of public activities if the Superintendent or their designated representative determines that such closure or restriction is necessary to avoid risk to public safety or damage to the natural, cultural, scenic, or aesthetic resources of the park.
Visitors shall be advised of closures by the posting of signs at trailheads, trail junctions, or other appropriate locations.
Such closures will be lifted upon mitigation of the safety issues.
Determination: Temporary closures may be needed to protect human life and address safety issues.
Climbing, Slacklining, Rappelling, Bungee Jumping, Hang-gliding, Para-gliding and Other Similar Activities
Climbing, slacklinining, rapelling, bungee jumping, hang gliding, para-gliding and other similar activities are prohibited from all park bridges and structures. The Superintendent may waive restrictions for maintenance or construction needs.
No permanent climbing hardware may be installed in any location. Temporary climbing hardware is prohibited from being installed in any living or dead trees.
Trees used as anchors must be padded to minimize damage to the trees.
Fixed ropes and software (webbing, accessory cord, etc.) may not be left in place. Fixed ropes and/or software left in place shall be considered “abandoned property” and removed.
The physical altering of rock faces, such as chiseling new holds, is prohibited.
The intentional removal of lichen or plants from rock is prohibited.
Chalk used for climbing must be of a color that blends in with the native rock.
Glue, epoxy, cement, or any other adhesive may not be used to attach or reinforce hand/or footholds for climbing or scrambling.
Slacklines are permitted under the following conditions:
It meets the above conditions found under climbing, slacklining, rappelling, bungee jumping, hand-gliding, para-gliding and other similar activities.
It does not create a hazardous condition or interfere with the orderly management of the park
It does not cross a road or trail
Determination: The structures listed above are critical to park functions and several are historic in nature or are important to the cultural landscape themes of the park and therefore have been deemed inappropriate for the recreational uses listed above. Climbing regulations ensure protection of resources, provides for quiet and tranquil visits for all visitors and enhances aesthetic appearance of all resources. The intent of these prohibitions is to discourage the permanent placement of pre-manufactured holds or the creation of fresh rock scars whose presence would degrade the natural scene, and to prevent the destruction of micro-environment that may harbor or support sensitive and unique life forms or communities. Fixed or tension lines can present a significant hazard to other visitors and negatively impact the scenic value of the park.
Quiet Hours
Quiet hours for the administrative areas of the park (Visitor Center, Maintenance, Upper and Lower Housing) is 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. The Superintendent may lift the restrictions during times of emergency operations or required maintenance.
Determination: Quiet hours have been established in these areas to help preserve peace/ tranquility for the park residents that reside or are required to reside in or near the park administrative areas.
Wildlife Protection
Lawfully taken wildlife from outside the park may not be possessed while visiting or camping in the park.
Lawfully taken wildlife may be transported, on roadways, through the park without stopping.
Lawfully taken wildlife will be transported in accordance with all South Dakota fish and game regulations.
Determination: Wildlife carcasses while camping and/or stopping and visiting the park detract from the aesthetic appearance of all resources.
36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) - Designate Areas for a specific use or activity or impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.
Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions.
§1.5(d) The following activities related to Public Use Limits:
Recreational Cave Permits may be requested through the Cave Management Specialist.
Section II. - 36 CFR §1.6 Activities That Require a Permit
36 CFR 1.6(f) – Activities that require a permit.
The following activities are prohibited without a permit. Criteria for approving or denying permits are established by applicable law (statutes and regulations) and policy. Permitted activities are subject to applicable terms and conditions.
Launching or landing uncrewed aircraft. 36 CFR 1.5.
Specimen collection for research purposes. 36 CFR 2.5
Gathering of plants or plant parts by Federally recognized Indian tribes. 36 CFR 2.6
Camping in day use areas. 36 CFR 2.6
Operating a power saw in developed areas and a motor or engine in undeveloped areas. 36 CFR 2.12.
Operating a public address system 36 CFR 2.12.
Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means. 36 CFR 2.17.
Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services. 36 CFR 2.37.
Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives; using or possessing fireworks or firecrackers. 36 CFR 2.38.
Conducting a special event. 36 CFR 2.50.
Conducting a demonstration by groups of more than 25 people. 36 CFR 2.51.
Selling or distributing printed matter and other message-bearing items by groups of more than 25 people. 36 CFR 2.52.
Running-at-large, herding, driving across, allowing on, pasturing, or grazing of livestock or using the park for agriculture. 36 CFR 2.60.
Residing on federal lands. 36 CFR 2.61.
Scattering of human ashes from cremation. 36 CFR 2.62.
Towing a person using a parasail, hang-glider, or other airborne device 36 CFR 3.12.
Operating a submersible. 36 CFR 5.3.
Displaying, posting, or distributing commercial notices or advertisements. 36 CFR 5.1.
Engaging in or soliciting any business. 36 CFR 5.5.
Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depends upon the facts and circumstances; contact the park for more information). 54 U.S.C. 100905.
Using commercial vehicles on NPS-administered roads. 36 CFR 5.6.
Constructing or attempting to construct any building, structure, road, trail, path, or utility. 36 CFR 5.7.
Rights-of-way. 36 CFR part 14.
Examining ruins, excavating archeological sites, and gathering of objects of antiquity. 43 CFR part 3.
Excavating or removing archeological resources. 43 CFR part 7.
Collecting paleontological resources. 43 CFR part 49.
Part 10 Disposal of Certain Wild Animals (Wind Cave) §10.1 - Animals Available
From time to time there are surplus live elk, buffaloes and bears in Yellowstone National Park, and live buffaloes in Wind Cave National Park which the Secretary may, in their discretion, dispose of to Federal, State, county and municipal authorities for preserves, zoos, zoological gardens, and parks. When surplus live elk and buffaloes are available from these national parks, the Secretary may, in their discretion, dispose of these to individuals and private institutions.
Determination: Allows the park to effectively manage bison and elk populations and protect natural resources.
Section III: General CFR Regulations
36 CFR §2.1 - Preservation of Natural, Cultural, and Archeological Resources
(a)(4) All areas in the park are closed to wood gathering.
Determination: Prohibiting the gathering of wood prevents damage to natural resources and aides in the prevention of spreading bug contaminated wood (mountain pine beetle) into the park.
(b) All persons on guided cave tours must stay on established trails or designated routes.
Determination: Cave tour routes are complex and to protect visitors from injury and/or getting lost, off trail travel while on a public tour is prohibited. Limiting cave travel to established tour routes protects sensitive cave resources.
(c)(1), (c)(2) Gathering of fruits, berries, nuts, in small quantities (1 quart per person/per day) for non-commercial use is permitted. The collection of mushrooms and pinecones is prohibited. The following products may be collected:
Chokecherry - Prunus virginiana
Wild/American plum - Prunus americana
Determination: The above allowable quantities will not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of the plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.
(d) Lawfully taken wildlife from outside the park may not be possessed while visiting or camping in the park but may be transported by motor vehicle on established public highways through the park. The Superintendent has set the following conditions for transportation:
Lawfully taken wildlife may be transported, on roadways, through the park without stopping
Lawfully taken wildlife will be transported in accordance with all South Dakota fish and game regulations
(d) The retrieval/transportation of wounded or dead wildlife from the park is prohibited.
Determination: Wind Cave National Park is completely enclosed by a large elk and bison fence system. Wounded wildlife that can navigate back over the fence into the park is deemed to be a viable animal. In addition, the continued tracking, shooting, game processing and transportation of wildlife is prohibited by the CFR and would cause conflicts with visitors, damage fences and natural resources, and is not in keeping with park values. The State of South Dakota regulations also recognize the right of land managers to deny access for the retrieval of dead or wounded wildlife.
(e) The following areas are closed to the viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light:
All areas within Wind Cave National Park are closed to the viewing of wildlife with artificial light, which includes the purposeful direction of headlights, infrared lighting/beams, thermal imaging, and flash photography. The use of artificial light for special events, research, interpretive programs, and maintenance functions may be permitted by the Superintendent.
(a) Except in designated areas or as provided in this section, fishing shall be in accordance with the laws and regulations of the State within whose exterior boundaries a park area or portion thereof is located. Nonconflicting State laws are adopted as a part of these regulations.
Fishing is permitted in accordance with non-conflicting state law and 36 CFR in all areas otherwise open to public use.
(a) The sites and areas listed below have been designated for camping activities as noted. A permit system has been established for certain campgrounds or camping activities, and conditions for camping and camping activities are in effect as noted:
Elk Mountain Campground Permit Regulations:
A camping permit is required to camp at Elk Mountain Campground. (Recreation fees apply)
An individual may stay a maximum 14 consecutive nights, no more than 30 total nights during the calendar year.
Open fires and charcoal fires are prohibited unless they are in a designated fire grate.
A maximum of two tents, 8 people and 1 vehicle is permitted on each site.
The group camping sites are limited to 30 people.
Campground quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
The campground is closed to persons other than registered campers from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Generators may only be used from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Checkout time is 12:00 p.m.
Campground Fees: See below – Section 36 CFR §2.23 for a list of park recreation fees.
Determination: The above regulations protect park resources, reduce human impacts, provide for visitor safety, provide wildland fire protection, and provide for a quality camping experience. Permits provide critical data for park managers and track visitor use.
Backcountry Camping Permit Regulations:
Wind Cave National Park Backcountry Camping Permits are required for all overnight trips into the Wind Cave National Park backcountry. Backcountry camping is managed by designated zones. See Map A.
Backcountry permits are free of charge and are issued at the Visitor Center. Permits are only issued to applicants in person at: 26611 US Highway 385, Hot Springs, SD. 57747.
Backcountry permits shall be surrendered for inspection upon request to any identified employee, official volunteer, or NPS Intern, such as a member of the Student Conservation Association of the National Park Service.
Only one backcountry permit may be issued to a "permit holder" representing themselves, a party, or group. The permit must be in the possession of the permit holder at all times while in the backcountry. Multiple permits for one permit holder for the same time period are not allowed.
Minimum age for obtaining a permit is 18 years of age, ages 16 to 18 may acquire a permit with a parent/guardian signature.
Backcountry permits must be placed prominently on the dashboard of vehicles parked at trailheads.
Groups camping in the park backcountry are limited to a maximum of 12 persons per group. Affiliated groups whose combined total number of people is greater than 12 must camp and travel at least one mile apart.
A backcountry campsite may only be occupied for 2 consecutive nights and an individual is limited to 7 nights per trip and no more than 30 total nights per year.
Backcountry campsites must be a ¼ mile from, and out of sight of, any paved or improved dirt road and all campsites must be 100 feet away from the trail, any water source or other camp.
Open fires are prohibited throughout the Wind Cave National Park backcountry.
Human waste must be buried in a shallow hole 100 feet or more from camps, trails, and water sources. Food waste and trash must be packed out of the backcountry, burial of these items is prohibited.
The superintendent may authorize camping in areas other than those designated as appropriate.
(d) Conditions for the storage of food are in effect for the following areas:
Elk Mountain Campground
All Backcountry camping zones (See Map A)
Roadsides and Pullouts:
Overnight parking/sleeping in vehicles/camping alongside roadways, in parking lots, picnic areas, trailheads and wayside exhibit areas is prohibited.
Determination: Overnight camping or overnight parking/sleeping in vehicles along the Park’s roads creates unsafe conditions for visitors and detracts from the view shed, blocks access to park interpretive sites, creates issues with trash and human waste disposal and generally detracts from the visitor experience.
Unless closed, picnicking is permitted throughout the surface areas of Wind Cave National Park and in Elk Mountain Campground if there are open campsites.
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
Designated Areas:
Elk Mountain Campground
Visitor Center Picnic Area
Receptacles Allowed:
Designated fire grates
Established Conditions for Fires:
During South Dakota state-imposed burn bans and/or periods of high fire danger, the superintendent may temporarily ban fires, and/or stove use in the park to protect park resources and reduce the risk of wildfires.
Only wood or charcoal may be used
Fires must be at least 10 feet away from buildings, vehicles, and camping equipment
(b) Fires must be extinguished upon termination of use and according to the following conditions: If a fire creates an air pollution problem, nuisance, or fire hazard it shall be extinguished
(a)(2) The use of government refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household, commercial or industrial refuse, brought as such from private or municipal property is allowed under the following conditions:
Park residents may utilize government receptacles while occupying park quarters.
Park employees may bring recyclable items from home if their local community does not have a recycling program.
(b) Conditions for the disposal, containerization, or carryout of human body waste have been established as follows:
Human waste must be containerized and removed from all caves within Wind Cave National Park.
In backcountry areas, human waste must be buried in a shallow hole, 100 feet or more from camps or water sources and immediately covered. All food waste, food containers, and disposable items packed into the backcountry must be packed out. Burial of these items is prohibited.
(a)(1) The following structures and/or areas are closed to the possession of pets:
All caves, hiking trails, and backcountry areas are closed to pets.
Service dogs are allowed on paved cave trails if medically necessary.
All public use buildings are closed to pets except for service dogs.
Properly leashed dogs are allowed in the Elk Mountain Campground, on established roadways that are open to public motor vehicle traffic, parking lots, pet walking area near the visitor center, and on the two front country nature trails: Elk Mountain and Prairie Vista.
(e) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
Park residents may keep pets in accordance with the park pet and housing management policies.
(c)(1) The removal of a downed aircraft, components, or parts thereof is subject to procedures established by the Superintendent through written authorization.
(a) The following portions of the park, or all or portions of buildings, structures or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:
All Government-owned buildings and structures, including restrooms.
All government owned or leased vehicles.
Smoking within 25 feet of all entrances and exits to government buildings or caves.
Within 50 feet of fuel pumps and flammable substance storage areas.
Other areas as posted and as designated during high fire danger.
Smoking is prohibited within all caves.
All Electronic cigarettes are prohibited as if they are tobacco products.
36 CFR §2.23 – Recreation Fees
(b) Recreation fees, and/or a permit, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following entrance fee areas, and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses:
Daily Site Use Fee Areas:
Elk Mountain Campground:
$24 Tent and RV sites per night, water available from late May to the end of September. Certain campsites are available on a first come first served basis, remaining campsites are available by reservation - see Recreation.gov - Camping, Cabins, RVs, Permits, Passes & More for more information.
$12 Tent and RV sites per night, no water available from early October to mid-May. Campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Minimum age for the Candlelight Tour is 8 years old.
Ages 8 and up
$16
Minimum age for the Wild Cave Tour is 16 years old with a signed parent permission slip.
Ages 16 and up
$45
Adults (ages 16 to 61)
$6
Youth (ages 6 to 15)
$3
Children (5 and under)
Free
Seniors (62 and over)
$3
36 CFR §2.35 – Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances
(a)(3)(i) The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed.
Alcoholic beverages and controlled substances are prohibited within all government buildings, to exclude government residences within in accordance with Federal and State Law and the Park Housing Management Plan.
(a) Erection of monuments (Requires approval from Director)(b) Scattering ashes from human cremation. A permit is not required under the following conditions:
The remains to be scattered have been cremated and pulverized.
The scattering of remains is performed at least 100 yards from any trail, road, developed facility, or body of water.
The scattering of remains from the air is performed at a minimum altitude of 2000 feet above the ground and are not released over developed areas, facilities, or bodies of water.
(*) In accordance with the authority granted in 36 CFR §4.21(b) the superintendent has designated different speed limits in areas with deceleration zones, congested motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic, in areas where children may be present, and where road surface, character, or design do not allow for a faster, safer speed. The current speed limits do not represent a change from past posted limits and are consistent with the State of South Dakota.
(a) The use of a bicycle is permitted on park roads and in parking areas that are otherwise open for motor vehicle use by the general public.Park roads and parking areas that are closed to bicycle use are: Mixing Circle Road, Lower Housing Loop, Upper Housing Loop, Reservoir Access Road, Wind Cave Canyon Road, and Bison Corral Road.
(i) Electric Bicycles
E-bikes are allowed in Wind Cave National Park where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor exclusively to move an e-bike for an extended period of time without pedaling is prohibited.
The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 horsepower).
A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).
Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Wind Cave National Park is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.
Map A - Backcountry Camping Zones
Map A – Backcountry Camping Zones All other areas are closed to backcountry camping – contact the park for details.
