Badlands National Park Weather by Month: What to Expect All Year Long
Badlands National Park in South Dakota is known for its dramatic layered rock formations, sweeping prairies, diverse wildlife, and some of the most unpredictable weather in the U.S. Planning a visit at the right time of year can make your experience far more enjoyable. This month-by-month weather guide breaks down temperature patterns, precipitation, and what each season brings—so you know exactly what to expect.
Badlands National Park Weather by Month
January: Cold, Stark, and Snow-Dusted
- Average High: 34°F (1°C)
- Average Low: 11°F (-12°C)
- Weather Notes: January is the height of winter, bringing frigid temperatures and occasional snowstorms. Winds can be strong, and the landscape often looks beautifully dusted in white.
- Best For: Solitude, photography, and winter wildlife spotting.
- Prepare For: Icy roads, bitter cold, and limited facility access.
February: Still Cold With Slight Warming
- Average High: 38°F (3°C)
- Average Low: 15°F (-9°C)
- Weather Notes: Temperatures remain low but begin to inch upward. Fresh snow is still common, and nights are very cold.
- Best For: Quiet hikes on clear days.
- Prepare For: Variable weather—sun one day, snow the next.
March: Transition Into Spring
- Average High: 47°F (8°C)
- Average Low: 24°F (-4°C)
- Weather Notes: Days warm up, but snow and freezing temperatures can still occur. Trails start to thaw and can become muddy.
- Best For: Early-season explorers who don’t mind a little unpredictability.
- Prepare For: Layers—temperatures swing dramatically.
April: Warming Up With More Rain
- Average High: 59°F (15°C)
- Average Low: 34°F (1°C)
- Weather Notes: Spring emerges, bringing more sunshine and rainfall. Prairie flowers begin to bloom.
- Best For: Comfortable hiking before summer crowds.
- Prepare For: Rain gear and wind protection.
May: Peak Spring Beauty
- Average High: 70°F (21°C)
- Average Low: 44°F (7°C)
- Weather Notes: Mild temperatures make May one of the best months to visit. Rain showers are common, and wildlife is active.
- Best For: Photographers, hikers, and wildlife watchers.
- Prepare For: Changing weather and muddy conditions after rain.
June: Warm Days, Occasional Storms
- Average High: 81°F (27°C)
- Average Low: 54°F (12°C)
- Weather Notes: Summer begins with warm, pleasant days and cool nights. June is also one of the months with the most thunderstorms.
- Best For: Full-day hikes and sunrise/sunset viewing.
- Prepare For: Lightning awareness during afternoon storms.
July: Hot and Sunny
- Average High: 92°F (33°C)
- Average Low: 63°F (17°C)
- Weather Notes: July is the hottest month. Dry heat is typical, but thunderstorms can roll through quickly.
- Best For: Early morning and evening exploring.
- Prepare For: Heat protection—water, sunblock, and hats.
August: Peak Heat With Dramatic Skies
- Average High: 91°F (33°C)
- Average Low: 61°F (16°C)
- Weather Notes: High temperatures continue, and storms remain possible, especially early in the month.
- Best For: Sunrise photography and evening hikes.
- Prepare For: High UV index and limited shade.
September: Cooler and Comfortable
- Average High: 81°F (27°C)
- Average Low: 50°F (10°C)
- Weather Notes: One of the best months to visit—warm days, cool nights, fewer storms, and smaller crowds.
- Best For: All outdoor activities, backpacking, and wildlife viewing.
- Prepare For: Light layers for nighttime.
October: Crisp and Colorful
- Average High: 67°F (19°C)
- Average Low: 38°F (3°C)
- Weather Notes: Fall arrives with golden grasses and mild temperatures. Frost becomes possible at night.
- Best For: Hiking, photography, and peaceful visits.
- Prepare For: Cold mornings and possible early snow.
November: Quiet and Cold Again
- Average High: 49°F (9°C)
- Average Low: 25°F (-4°C)
- Weather Notes: Temperatures drop quickly. Snow may return late in the month, and park facilities move to winter schedules.
- Best For: Visitors seeking solitude.
- Prepare For: Cold winds and unpredictable weather.
December: Winter Returns Fully
- Average High: 37°F (3°C)
- Average Low: 15°F (-9°C)
- Weather Notes: Light snow, cold air, and stark scenery define December. The park is quiet and dramatic.
- Best For: Winter photography and scenic drives.
- Prepare For: Snowy conditions and limited services.
Badlands National Park Weather by Month (Summary Table)
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Typical Weather | Travel Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 34 | 11 | Very cold, snow, strong winds | Quiet, icy conditions |
| February | 38 | 15 | Cold, occasional snow | Good solitude |
| March | 47 | 24 | Mixed winter–spring, muddy | Highly variable |
| April | 59 | 34 | Warming, more rain | Spring blooms start |
| May | 70 | 44 | Mild, rainy, green scenery | One of the best months |
| June | 81 | 54 | Warm, thunderstorms | Great for hiking |
| July | 92 | 63 | Hot, sunny | Explore mornings/evenings |
| August | 91 | 61 | Hot, stormy early | High UV, dry heat |
| September | 81 | 50 | Warm, stable weather | Ideal conditions |
| October | 67 | 38 | Cool, crisp, early frost | Beautiful landscapes |
| November | 49 | 25 | Cold, early snow | Very quiet |
| December | 37 | 15 | Cold, snowy | Stark winter scenery |
Best Time to Visit Badlands National Park
- Best Overall: May, June, September, October
- Best for Mild Weather: May & September
- Best for Photography: April–June and September–October
- Best for Fewer Crowds: November–March
20 FAQs & Answers About Badlands National Park Weather
1. What is the best month to visit Badlands National Park?
May, June, September, and October offer the most pleasant temperatures and stable weather.
2. How hot does it get in the Badlands during summer?
July and August often reach 90–100°F (32–38°C) with intense sun and dry heat.
3. Does Badlands National Park get snow in winter?
Yes. Snow is common from November through March, ranging from light snow to occasional storms.
4. What is the coldest month of the year?
January is the coldest, with nighttime lows around 11°F (-12°C) or even lower.
5. What is the hottest month in the Badlands?
July is usually the hottest, averaging around 92°F (33°C).
6. Is spring a good time to visit the Badlands?
Yes—April and May are beautiful with mild temperatures, but rain showers and muddy trails are possible.
7. Are thunderstorms common in the Badlands?
Yes. Thunderstorms frequently occur in June, July, and early August, often in the afternoon.
8. Is the weather unpredictable?
Very. Conditions can change quickly—sunny in the morning, stormy by afternoon.
9. What should I pack for a summer visit?
Light clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), 2–3 liters of water per person, sturdy shoes, and a rain jacket for storms.
10. What should I pack for a winter visit?
Thermal layers, insulated jackets, gloves, waterproof boots, and caution for icy roads.
11. Does the Badlands get tornadoes?
Tornadoes are rare but possible since the park lies in the Great Plains region.
12. Is fall weather mild in the Badlands?
Yes. September and October have comfortable days, cool nights, and very little rain.
13. How cold do nights get?
Even in summer, nights can fall to the 50s°F (10–15°C). Winter nights can drop below 0°F (-18°C).
14. Is it safe to hike in July or August?
Yes, but only with precautions. Hike early morning or evening, avoid ridges during storms, and bring plenty of water.
15. Does the park have much shade?
No. The Badlands are mostly exposed terrain with very limited natural shade.
16. Is wind a problem in the Badlands?
Yes. Strong winds are common year-round, especially in winter and spring.
17. Does the park close during winter storms?
Roads may temporarily close due to snow or ice, but the park itself rarely shuts down entirely.
18. How dry is the climate?
Badlands National Park has a semi-arid climate, meaning low humidity and minimal annual rainfall.
19. What is the rainiest month?
June is typically the rainiest, mostly due to thunderstorms.
20. Which month has the most stable weather for hiking?
September generally offers the most consistent and comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Final Tips for Weather in the Badlands
- Weather changes fast—always check the forecast before heading out.
- The park has very little shade, so sun protection is essential year-round.
- Summer storms can produce lightning—avoid ridgelines during storms.
- Winters can be beautiful, but icy—drive cautiously.
