Badlands National Park

About Badlands

The rugged beauty of the Badlands draws visitors from around the world. These striking geologic deposits contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. Ancient horses and rhinos once roamed here. The park’s 244,000 acres protect an expanse of mixed-grass prairie where bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets live today.

From the National Park Service.

Entrance fees

Park annual pass

This pass admits a single, private, non commercial vehicle and its occupants into the park. This pass does not include camping or give any type of discount at stores inside the park. Valid for one year from month of purchase.

Reservations

NPS lists no entry reservation for this park as of October 26, 2026. Campgrounds and tours may still need booking.

Weather and seasons

The Badlands weather is variable and unpredictable with temperature extremes ranging from 116° F to -40° F. Summers are hot and dry with occasional violent thunderstorms. Hailstorms and occasional tornadoes can descend on the Badlands with sudden fury. Winters are typically cold with 12 to 24 inches of total snowfall.

Hours

The park is open to visitors all year with the exception of weather closures.

Getting there

Badlands National Park is located 75 miles east of Rapid City, South Dakota. Physical Addresses for GPS* Park Headquarters: 25216 Ben Reifel Road, Interior, SD 57750. Northeast Entrance (I-90, Exit 131): 21020 SD Hwy 240, Interior, SD 57750. Pinnacles Entrance (I-90, Exit 110): 24240 Hwy 240, Wall, SD 57790. Interior Entrance: 20640 SD Hwy 377, Interior, SD 57750.

Campgrounds

• Cedar Pass CampgroundBook on Recreation.gov
• Sage Creek Campground

Visitor centers

• Ben Reifel Visitor Center
• White River Visitor Center

Alerts

• Caution: Navigation

As of October 26, 2026. Current alerts on nps.gov

Sources

Badlands National Park fees on nps.gov. Prices, park information and photos from the NPS Data API, checked October 26, 2026. Photos credited to the National Park Service.