Best Things to Do in Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park, located in southwestern South Dakota, is one of the most striking and underrated national parks in the United States. With its dramatic landscapes, fossil beds, rugged canyons, and layered rock formations, the park offers a unique blend of natural history and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or road tripper, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Badlands National Park.

1. Take a Scenic Drive on Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240)

One of the best ways to explore the park is by driving the Badlands Loop Road. This 39-mile scenic byway winds through some of the most picturesque parts of the park, offering access to popular overlooks like:

Big Badlands Overlook
Panorama Point
Yellow Mounds Overlook
Conata Basin Overlook

You’ll encounter breathtaking views of colorful rock formations, deep canyons, and wide-open prairie.

Best Things to Do in Badlands National Park

Big Badlands Overlook (image: Jeremy Jensen)

2. Go Hiking on Scenic Trails

Badlands National Park offers a variety of hikes, ranging from short, easy boardwalks to more strenuous backcountry trails:

Notch Trail (1.5 miles round-trip): A fun and adventurous trail featuring a log ladder and a dramatic cliffside view at the end.
Door Trail (0.75 miles): A short hike that leads to a natural “door” in the Badlands Wall.
Window Trail (0.25 miles): Quick and easy, offering views through a natural rock window.
Castle Trail (10 miles round-trip): The longest maintained trail in the park, showcasing wide-open prairies and scenic rock formations.

3. Watch Wildlife

Badlands is home to an impressive array of wildlife. While exploring the park, keep an eye out for:

Bison
Bighorn sheep
Prairie dogs
Coyotes
Black-footed ferrets (rare and endangered)

For the best wildlife viewing, visit the Sage Creek Rim Road and Roberts Prairie Dog Town.

4. Visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center

The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is the main hub of the park. Here you can:

Learn about the park’s geology and fossils
See exhibits on Native American history and the Oglala Lakota Nation
Talk to park rangers for tips and maps
Visit the Fossil Preparation Lab to watch paleontologists at work

5. Catch a Sunrise or Sunset

The colors of the Badlands become even more vibrant during sunrise and sunset. Some of the best spots to experience these golden-hour moments include:

Big Badlands Overlook (for sunrise)
Pinnacles Overlook (for sunset)
Conata Basin Overlook (great for both)

Bring your camera—you’ll want to capture the surreal colors.

6. Camp Under the Stars

Badlands is designated as a Dark Sky Park, making it a prime destination for stargazing. Campgrounds include:

Cedar Pass Campground: Near the visitor center, with amenities.
Sage Creek Campground: More primitive, but free and located near bison herds.

Bring a telescope or just lay back and enjoy the Milky Way overhead.

7. Explore the Fossil Exhibit Trail

This short, easy boardwalk trail offers insight into the park’s rich fossil history. Along the way, you’ll see exhibits about prehistoric creatures that once roamed the area—including ancient camels, rhinos, and saber-toothed cats.

8. Take a Side Trip to the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Just outside the park’s eastern entrance, this historic site preserves Cold War-era missile silos and offers guided tours. It’s a fascinating—and sobering—look at a different kind of American history.

Final Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days).
Be Prepared: Weather can be extreme, so bring water, sun protection, and proper footwear.
Respect Wildlife: Stay at least 100 feet from large animals.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, Badlands National Park offers a mix of scenic wonder, natural history, and solitude that makes it a must-visit destination in the American Midwest.