Badlands National Park Tours and Activities

Photo provided by National Parks Service/Lee McDowell
Photo provided by National Parks Service
Photo provided by National Parks Service/Shaina Niehans
Photo provided by National Parks Service/Sara Feldt
Photo provided by National Parks Service/Shaina Niehans


Despite the forbidding name, this park has great beauty in its cliffs, prairies and ancient fossil beds.

Early pioneers were awestruck moving from the prairies to variegated cliffs of what is now known as Badlands National Park. At first glance, these treeless, seemingly endless spires, pinnacles and ravines appear hostile, earning their name of “bad lands.” However, today’s safe access lets you explore the beauty of this geologic wonder.

Hiking paths range from short, easy Window Trail and boardwalk Door Trail at canyon level to moderate and strenuous trails up the Badlands Wall. Hike both areas for varied perspectives of looking up to and down from fascinating rock formations.

Camp in the backcountry and enjoy clear, dark skies under the Milky Way Galaxy. Visit Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater to hear a ranger program and use telescopes to explore some of the 7,500 visible stars and a few planets.

Follow the short boardwalk along Fossil Exhibit Trail, with replicas of ancient creatures once inhabiting the area. In this park, one of the world’s richest fossil fields, you may discover unmarked fossil remains. If so, don’t do any digging, but flag the spot, fill out a visitor site report and notify a ranger.

Ancient rhinoceroses and saber-toothed cats once lived in these lands. In modern times, look for bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, bison and ferrets in the vast mixed-grass prairie area.

If you’ve visited before, return to enjoy the park again and look for changes in the striking landscape. Fragile parts of the terrain erode at a rate of 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) per year, exposing new fossils on a regular basis.

Drive or join a tour to appreciate the sights along the Badlands Loop Road. Each turn brings a new view of stratified rock and narrow gullies. The park is about an hour’s drive east of Rapid City. Combine your visit to see the natural beauty of Badlands National Park with a trip to Mount Rushmore National Monument where images of four great U.S. presidents are carved into a massive cliff.

Purchase a day pass to Badlands National Park or an interagency pass providing full-year access to all U.S. national parks with affordable adventures for every traveler.

Popular places to visit


Top Badlands National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Best Western Plains Motel

Best Western Plains Motel

2.5 out of 5
712 Glenn St, Wall, SD
Best Western Plains Motel
Super 8 by Wyndham Wall

Super 8 by Wyndham Wall

2.5 out of 5
711 Glenn St, Wall, SD
Super 8 by Wyndham Wall
Badlands Frontier Cabins

Badlands Frontier Cabins

3 out of 5
1101 Glenn St, Wall, SD
Badlands Frontier Cabins
Days Inn by Wyndham Wall

Days Inn by Wyndham Wall

2 out of 5
212 10th Ave And Norris, Wall, SD
Days Inn by Wyndham Wall
Americas Best Value Inn Wall

Americas Best Value Inn Wall

2 out of 5
201 South Boulevard, Wall, SD
Americas Best Value Inn Wall
Hansen Inn and Cabins

Hansen Inn and Cabins

2 out of 5
114 4th Ave, Wall, SD
Hansen Inn and Cabins
Travelodge by Wyndham Wall

Travelodge by Wyndham Wall

2 out of 5
211 10th Avenue, Wall, SD
Travelodge by Wyndham Wall
Charming 2-bedroom house in lovely Wall with WiFi & AC

Charming 2-bedroom house in lovely Wall with WiFi & AC

Wall
Charming 2-bedroom house in lovely Wall with WiFi & AC
19-Hansen Inn & Cabins, Cabin Suite, 1 King, 1 Queen, Sleeper Sofa, Dog Friendly

19-Hansen Inn & Cabins, Cabin Suite, 1 King, 1 Queen, Sleeper Sofa, Dog Friendly

2 out of 5
Wall
19-Hansen Inn & Cabins, Cabin Suite, 1 King, 1 Queen, Sleeper Sofa, Dog Friendly
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Badlands National Park

At Badlands National Park, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including breathtaking sightseeing, guided tours, and unique shopping experiences. Adventure seekers can indulge in horseback riding and explore the stunning badlands terrain. Don't miss the scenic lookouts that offer spectacular views of the park's dramatic landscapes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is Wall Drug, located 17.7km away from Badlands National Park. If you're up for a drive, you'll find a unique mix of shops, entertainment, and family-friendly activities that capture the spirit of the American West.

Recreation

At Wall Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes only 14.5km from Badlands National Park, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For a serene escape, head to Sage Creek Wilderness Area, 32.2km away, where you can immerse yourself in nature's tranquility and relaxation.

Adventure

Embark on an adventure at Cliff Shelf Nature Trailhead, located 35.4km from Badlands National Park, offering breathtaking scenery. The Notch Trail, 19.3km away, promises thrilling views and a sense of exploration. Discover ancient history on the Fossil Exhibit Trail, 29.0km from the park, surrounded by remarkable landscapes.

Nightlife

In Badlands National Park, the nightlife is serene and magical, with stargazing opportunities that reveal a canvas of stars. Nearby, local pubs in Wall offer a warm atmosphere where you can enjoy regional brews and hearty meals after a day of exploring the stunning landscapes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Badlands National Park

Explore the captivating Badlands National Park in South Dakota, where you can enjoy a mix of adventure and culture. Discover visitor centres, historic sites, and museums that showcase the area's rich heritage. Don’t miss the stunning Badlands Loop Road, which offers breathtaking views and outdoor experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

  • Pinnacles Entrance Badlands: Located 8.0km from Badlands National Park, this visitor centre offers a thrilling outdoor adventure for families. Experience the rugged beauty of the Badlands while engaging in various activities designed to immerse you in the stunning landscape.
  • Wounded Knee Museum: Situated 16.1km away, this museum provides a deep cultural insight into the history of the Lakota people and the significant events surrounding Wounded Knee. It's a poignant experience that highlights the resilience and rich heritage of Native American culture.
  • Roberts Prairie Dog Town: Just 6.4km from the park, this attraction is a delightful family-friendly spot where you can observe the playful prairie dogs in their natural habitat. It's a great place for excursions and enjoying friendly interactions with these charming creatures.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Badlands National Park

To save money on your trip to Badlands National Park, consider visiting between December and February for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance, preferably on a Tuesday for the best deals. Use Expedia to find last-minute discounts and sort accommodation options by price. Look for eco-certified hotels to support sustainable travel. Additionally, combining your hotel stay with flights and activities through an Expedia package can lead to significant savings. Avoid peak season (June to August) to enjoy more affordable prices.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Badlands National Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Badlands National Park about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Badlands National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Badlands National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options according to your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable rates and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at Badlands National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.