South Dakota · National Park

Badlands

Dramatic layered rock formations and fossil beds across the South Dakota prairie.

🥾 11+ trails 🎟️ $30 / vehicle ⛺ 198 campsites ☀️ June – August 📅 Open year-round

Popular trails

Curated routes with approximate round-trip distance. In the app, tap one to log it.

  • Notch Trail1.5 mi
  • Door Trail0.8 mi
  • Window Trail0.3 mi
  • Saddle Pass Trail0.3 mi
  • Castle Trail5.2 mi

Camping

Approximately 198 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (June – August).

Find places to stay near Badlands →

Best time to visit

Peak season: June – August. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.

Getting there

Nearest city: Rapid City, SD. Park center: 43.850°, -102.340°.

Open in Google Maps →  ·  Official NPS page →