National Parks in South Dakota
If you’re thinking about visiting South Dakota, you can’t miss the incredible national parks in South Dakota. Whether you’re hiking through the out-of-this-world landscapes of Badlands National Park or exploring the underground wonders of Wind Cave National Park, these parks offer a mix of adventure, history, and jaw-dropping scenery.
From wide-open prairies to dramatic rock formations, South Dakota’s national parks are packed with natural beauty and plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore. While South Dakota has just 2 National Parks we can also find a National Memorial and National Monument in South Dakota.
Planning a South Dakota Trip? Grab Your FREE Bucket List and Check Off Every Must-See Destination!
* This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on the link, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. *
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is about an hour east of Rapid City and offers a stunning look at how nature has shaped the landscape over millions of years. It’s also home to an incredible collection of fossils from creatures that lived more than 23 million years ago!
Covering an area of 244,000 acres, the park has several scenic drives with breathtaking viewpoints. Sage Creek Road, a gravel road in the northern section, is a great option if you’re looking for a quieter route with fewer cars than the more popular Badlands Loop Road. Even if you don’t drive the entire stretch, it’s worth exploring a few miles for a more peaceful experience, though it is slow to drive it as it is gravel and not paved.
The Badlands Loop Road is the park’s main scenic drive, stretching 39 miles from Interstate 90. Along the route, you’ll find plenty of pull-offs to admire the rugged rock formations and sprawling prairie. Near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, there are several short hikes that offer a chance to explore the landscape on foot. Whether you prefer a quick walk or a longer trek, getting out of the car is the best way to fully appreciate the park’s unique terrain.
The dramatic peaks and valleys of the Badlands have been sculpted by water over time, eventually transitioning into the wide-open prairie we see in the park. Entry to Badlands costs $30 per vehicle, but if you’re planning to visit multiple national parks, the $80 annual pass is a worthwhile investment!
Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park is located just south of Custer State Park, Crazy Horse, and Mount Rushmore near Hot Springs, it became the sixth national park in the U.S. in April 1903. It is open year-round and offers visitors a mix of underground wonders and breathtaking prairie landscapes.
While the cave system is the park’s main attraction, the vast land above ground features scenic hiking trails and excellent wildlife viewing. Bison and elk are commonly seen roaming the open grasslands, making this park a fantastic spot for nature lovers.
There’s no fee to enter the park or explore the trails, but guided cave tours cost between $14 and $16 per adult. It’s a good idea to book a cave tour ahead of time, as during busy months they can be sold out or you may need to wait hours for tickets.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
As South Dakota’s most visited attraction, Mount Rushmore draws over two million visitors each year. Interestingly, you will find out when visiting Mount Rushmore that the monument was originally designed as a tourist attraction to bring more visitors to the state when it was completed in 1941.
For a closer look at the presidential faces, you can take the Presidential Trail, a short hike that leads you nearer to the mountain before looping back to the main complex. After exploring, you can grab a meal or treat yourself to ice cream at the on-site café.
One of the most memorable experiences is the Mount Rushmore lighting ceremony, held in the evening as the sun sets. A park ranger shares the history of the monument and South Dakota before a short film is shown. The ceremony ends with the mountain dramatically illuminated and a special moment where past and active military members are invited to help lower and fold the U.S. flag for the night. It’s a moving experience and well worth attending if you’re in the area.
Mount Rushmore is the top tourist attraction in South Dakota, and if you’re exploring the Black Hills, it’s an absolute must-see.
Jewel Cave National Monument
Jewel Cave National Monument is located just west of Custer and is home to the third-longest cave in the world, with over 215 miles of mapped passageways, and even now new areas are still being discovered. It is known for its sparkling calcite crystals, delicate formations, and vast underground chambers.
Visitors can explore the cave through a variety of guided tours, ranging from short, family-friendly walks to more adventurous experiences. The Scenic Tour is the most popular option, featuring paved pathways and handrails that make it accessible while still showcasing the breathtaking formations. For those looking for a challenge, the Historic Lantern Tour offers a glimpse into what early explorers experienced, as visitors navigate the cave using only lantern light.
Above ground, Jewel Cave National Monument also offers hiking trails through ponderosa pine forests and rugged terrain, where wildlife like deer, wild turkeys, and even the occasional mountain lion can be spotted. The Canyons Trail provides a great way to enjoy the fresh air while learning about the region’s diverse ecosystems.
Entrance to the monument is free, but cave tours require tickets with varying prices from $6 to $16, which can sell out quickly, especially in the summer months. If you’re planning to visit, it’s best to book in advance to secure your spot. Whether you’re an avid caver or just curious to see what lies beneath the Black Hills, Jewel Cave is a must-visit destination in South Dakota.
Save for later
