Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Badlands National Park.
Q: Where is Badlands National Park located?
A:Badlands National Park is located in southwest South Dakota.
Q:Is rock collecting allowed in Badlands National Park?
A:All collecting of rocks, minerals, plants, fossils or cultural objects (i.e. arrowheads) is illegal and punishable by a fine. This means that picking up any of the mentioned items is forbidden.
Q:Why is this area called “Badlands”?
A:To the Lakota, this harsh and desolate landscape was known as "mako sica," meaning “land bad." Early French trappers similarly described the area as “bad lands to travel across." Today, geologists consider all the places in the world with similar topography and formation badlands.
Q:How far is Badlands National Park from Mount Rushmore?
A:Cedar Pass Lodge in Badlands National Park is located 114 miles or 1.5 - 2 hours from Mount Rushmore National Memorial and only an hour from Rapid City.
Q:Are there hiking trails in Badlands National Park?
A:Badlands National Park has five trails, varying from one-fourth mile to eight miles in length for exploring park features. The two recommended trails are the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail (.5 mile) or Fossil Exhibit Trail (.25 mile). The remainder of the park is open to exploration using a topographic map and a compass.
Q:What is the recommended stay duration at Badlands National Park?
A:Minimalist (2 Days)
Drives/Sightseeing: ½ day
Hiking/Exploring: ½ day
Activities / Special Programs: 1 day
Adventurist (3 days)
Drives/Sightseeing: ½ day
Hiking/Exploring: 1 Day
Activities / Special Programs: 1 Day
Notes: The Badlands provide ample opportunities for discovery, exploration and education. Driving around the park to get a general overview of what is there will take about half your day if you keep a pretty steady pace, but don't stop with just a drive-by viewing of the park, there is so much more in store for you here! The Badlands are a wealth of historical and geological education and information. There are many ranger programs to take part in throughout the summer months where you can learn fascinating facts about the land, ancient fossils, native American culture and other interesting facts about America's history. Badlands National Park offers a variety of designated hiking and biking trails that allow you to experience the beauty of the park up close and personal. The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is right next door to Badlands and provides an exciting an educational glimpse into America's past! A visit to the Minuteman Missile Site should definitely be worked into your Badlands vacation itinerary if possible. Last but not least, the Badlands has a wonderful night-sky/stargazing program! Night sky viewing is offered at the Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater on Friday through Monday nights throughout the summer months. Look at the spectacular night sky through telescopes provided by the park. Your ranger guide will point out constellations, stars, and planets.
Q:What is the entrance fee for Badlands National Park?
A:
Vehicle: $30.00 for 7 Days
Motorcycles: $25.00 for 7 Days
Individuals: $15.00 for 7 Days
Q:What is the weather like at Badlands National Park?
A:
Month
High (F°)
Low (F°)
January
34
11
February
40
16
March
48
24
April
62
36
May
72
46
June
83
56
July
92
62
August
91
61
September
81
51
October
68
39
November
50
26
December
39
17
Q:Is there cellular and WiFi service at Badlands National Park?
A:
Cellular service is very limited in Badlands National Park, with many parts having no service. WiFi is available at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
Q:Are pets allowed inside of Badlands National Park?
A:
In Badlands National Park pets are not allowed on any off-trail area, hiking areas, overlooks, visitor centers, backcountry areas, Badlands Wilderness Area, any area with prairie dog colonies, or buildings. Pets are allowed on Old Northeast Road just north of Cedar Pass. You can not leave your pet unattended or tied up to an object. Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet (1.8 meters) at all times. Owners must clean up after their pets.
