Welcome to Badlands National Park

On this page, you will learn more about the Badlands. You will learn things such as why it's famous, what to do if you visit, and more!

Badlands History

In South Dakota sits the Badlands National Park, with stunning geological formations. The name "Badlands" originated from the Lakota people, who are a part of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Badlands was given its name due to how rocky it is, water scarcity, and the extreme temperatures the region faces. Since 1929, this National Park has allowed people from all over to witness geological formations from millions of years ago, learn about Native American history, and see one of the largest grassland prairies.

Yang, A., & Waterman, J. (2022, August 8). Uncovering Native history in Badlands National Park. Trav

Badlands NP: History (Early Indians and Explorers). (n.d.). https://www.nps.gov/parkhistory/online_b

Yang, A., & Waterman, J. (2022, August 8). Uncovering Native history in Badlands National Park. Trav

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Things to do

Ben Reifel Visitor Center (Duration: 15 - 60 minutes)

If this is your first time visiting the Badlands then visiting the Ben Reifel Visitor Center is the place to go. Here you can stop by the information desk and ask for suggestions, then you can pop by the fossil preparation lab, walk by the museums available, and then end your visit by stopping by the bookstore.

H, J. (n.d.). Ben Reifel Visitor Center - Badlands National Park. https://americantraveljo

White River Visitor Center (Duration 15 - 60 minutes)

When you go on vacation your top priority is probably safety, especially with hiking. At the White River Visitor Center, park rangers are there to help you select the best and safest hiking route for you and your friends or family.

Visit the White River Visitor Center (U.S. National Park Service). (n.d.). https://www.nps

Drive Sage Creek Rim Road (Duration 1-2 hours)

At Badlands National Park, there are opportunities to see wildlife up close. With no reservations needed, Drive Sage Creek Rim Road allows visitors to see wildlife and nature from the comfort of their cars.

Drive Sage Creek Rim Road (U.S. National Park Service). (n.d.). https://www.nps.gov/things

Night Sky Viewings (Duration 30 - 90 minutes)

Enjoy the night sky of the Badlands by going to the Night Sky Viewings. Don't know much about astronomy? No worries, there are park rangers and astronomy volunteers there to help.

https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/night-sky-badl.htm

Need more recommendations and information?

The National Park Service provides a ton of recommendations of things to do, places to stay, and important information you need to know before you plan your trip to the Badlands. For more recommendations and information select the National Park Service badge below.