Things to Do in Badlands National Park: Best One Day Guide

Craving a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet? Look no further than all the things to do in Badlands National Park! Here, sculpted canyons and technicolor rock formations rise from the prairie, promising an adventure unlike any other.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual sightseer, this South Dakota gem offers a smorgasbord of things to do. From tracing the footsteps of ancient creatures through fossil beds to spotting playful prairie dogs, get ready to be wowed by the Badlands’ otherworldly beauty. We’ve separated all the incredible things to do in Badlands National Park by which entrance it’s closest to to help you plan!

Best Things to Do in Badlands National Park by Entrance  

There are four separate entrances to Badlands National Park. The Northeast Entrance, Interior Entrance, Pinnacle Entrance, and the White River Entrance. Use the information provided to choose which entrance is best for your adventure based on which attractions are closest to it.

It would also be helpful to familiarize yourself with the Badlands National Park Map while planning your trip. 

Badlands National Park Northeast Entrance 

The Northeast Entrance is easily accessed from I-90 and close to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. The Northeast Entrance is closest to a variety of very popular hikes and viewpoints. 

Big Badlands Overlook

Shortly after entering the park you’ll come across Big Badlands Overlook. Big Badlands Overlook provides the opportunity to view the eastern portion of the Badlands wall.

Badlands Wall is an erosional feature that expands from near the town Kadoka (east) to the town of Wall (west). If you’re driving in from the Northeast Entrance, this should be your first stop!

Castle Trail

The Castle Trail is the longest maintained trail in Badlands National Park. It stretches 5.4 miles one way along the north edge of the Badland Wall. If you would enjoy weaving through a maze of spires, buttes, sod tables, and fins along an open prairie, this is the trail for you!

Venture into the backcountry of the Badlands where you might also run into some big horned sheep. Please keep your distance from all wildlife you may find on the trail.

Door Trail

The Door Trail is an accessible .25 mile boardwalk that leads through a break in the Badlands Wall to a view of the Badlands. This break in the wall, known as “the Door”, allows visitors to walk through the natural passageway via a viewing platform.

This easy hike introduced visitors to the rugged world that is the Badlands. Past the viewing area there are yellow posts marking the primitive area of the trail. Continue on at your own risk!

Notch Trail

The Notch Trail is one of the park’s most popular hikes for good reason! It’s short and manageable but full of excitement.

An easy-to-follow trail will bring you to a long rope and wood ladder. Climb the ladder and continue along the trail until you reach the notch overlook. When you reach the north you’ll find yourself looking out over the badlands regions, the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, and the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. 

Window Trail

Take a short .3 mile walk to a break in the Badlands Wall. This trail is short and provides excellent views of layered badlands geology.

The view at the end provides a premier vantage point of the Badlands wall. It extends far beyond the park’s eastern boundary. This is an easy hike that takes place on an accessible wooden boardwalk. 

Badlands National Park Interior Entrance

Known as the main entrance to the park, the Interior Entrance is closest to the Cedar Pass Lodge and Ben Reifel Visitor Center. This entrance station is accessible from US-44 via the small town of Interior, SD.

Ben Reifel Visitor Center

The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is the Badlands’ main facility in the North section of the park. You can spend 15 -60 minutes talking with rangers, exploring the museum exhibits and Fossil Preparation Lab, or shopping in the gift shop.

From learning to purchasing, there’s truly something for everyone at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

Cliff Shelf Nature Trail

A quick .5 mile loop with views across the great plains. Travel through a juniper forest along the Badlands Wall to the stairs that will lead you to the cliff shelf viewing area.

Check out the Notch from a new angle and enjoy far reaching views over prairie grasses in the White River Valley to the South. 

Cedar Pass Campground

Cedar Pass Campground is one of two developed campgrounds in Badlands National Park. Enjoy stunning sunsets, dark night skies, and beautiful sunrises from one of 96 scenic campsites.  

Campsites are walking distance from bathrooms and pay showers. Additionally, the campground is conveniently located near the amphitheater for night programs and the Cedar Pass Restaurant. Single campsites are available for reservation April through October, with the four group sites staying available all year round. 

Cedar Pass Lodge

Air-conditioned pine cabins with breathtaking views of the Badlands await at Cedar Pass Lodge. Cedar Pass Lodge provides eco-friendly cabins built to Gold Level LEED standards.

All cabins are equipped with all the creature-comforts; heat and air conditioning, television, Mini Fridge and Microwave, and Coffee Makers are available for all guests. 

Fossil Exhibit Trail

The Fossil Exhibit Trail is a .4 mile accessible loop that focuses on education. Learn about the geology of the Badlands on a self-guided walk. The self-guided tour features fossil replicas and exhibits or extinct creatures that one lived when you stand! The exhibits are interesting and tactile, so please feel free to touch as you go.

This short trail will take you less than 10 minutes to complete. It’s perfect for both adults and children looking to learn more about the area they are exploring. 

Saddle Pass Trail

At a short and sweet .7 miles out and back, this trail is deceivingly tough. It may be less than a mile round trip, but it’s one of the steepest climbs in the park at about 300 feet of elevation gain in .35 miles. 

On this trail, you’ll climb from the road up the Badlands wall to a stunning birds-eye-view of the White River Valley. 

This is my personal favorite and hands down, the coolest, trail in Badlands National Park. This trail will lead you over a bridge and up the crumbling rock formations from Badlands Loop Road to one of the highest points in the park! This trail also connects with the Castle Trail and the Medicine Roots Trail; we took the Medicine Root to Castle Trail loop from the Saddle Pass Trail. 

White River Overlook

The White River Overlook provides an expansive view of the White River Badlands. This area gets its name due to the white sediment carried and deposited by erosion. You’ll notice rock formations known as the Castle to the West and views of the White River Valley to the South.  

Badlands National Park Pinnacle Entrance

Accessed from the town of Wall, the Pinnacles Entrance provides access to the Sage Creek Area of the park.

Driving the dirt/gravel Sage Creek Rim Road allows you to visit unique overlooks, including Hay Butte and Sage Creek Basin. It will also bring you right through Roberts Prairie Dog Town! 

Ancient Hunters Overlook

Ancient Hunters Overlook lies just east of where Sage Creek Rim Road intersects with 240.

This geological slump provides a wet area in the otherwise dry landscape. The Ancient Hunters Overlook provides visitors with the opportunity to observe an archaeological site at Badlands National Park. Evidence, such as bison bones and arrowheads, suggest this space may have been an ancient butchering location. 

Badlands Wilderness Overlook

A beautiful pull off on Rim Road just past Hay Butte Overlook if you’re heading toward Sage Creek Campground.

Badlands Wilderness Overlook shows where the eroded rock formations transition into prairie lands. This is an area where Bison can often be found. It’s important to remember that these animals are not afraid of the road, vehicles, or people and they are dangerous. 

Burns Basin Overlook

A short trail located in a parking area just off 240 leads to a sweeping views of the Badlands.

A welcoming overlook complete with boardwalk and bench! Named after the homestead of Wilson Burn, this basin was used to raise sheep in the early 20th century.

Hay Butte Overlook

Located on Sage Creek Rim Road, Hay Butte offers expansive views of the Badlands.

The Hay Butte Overlook displays a massive, grass-capped butte called – can you guess it? – Hay Butte. This is one of the major landmarks of the Sage Creek Wilderness Area. Bison and Bighorn Sheep are known to frequent this area! 

Homestead Overlook

Located on 240, a bit between the Pinnacle Entrance and Big Foot Pass Road, Homestead Overlook provides beautiful vies of the “free lane” that was once offered to settlers.

This overlook displays an area where homesteading in the Badlands took place. When the Homesteading Act Laws were issued in the 1860s, many U.S. citizens took this opportunity to head West and do their best. In the harsh conditions of the Badlands, homesteading was not an easy task. 

Pinnacles Overlook

A number of short trails with beautiful views are located on route 240 just after Sagecreek rim Road.

Pinnacles Overlooks shows off the vastness of the Sage Creek Wilderness. On a clear day, visitors can see the Black Hills in the Distance. This overlook is a popular spot for Big Horn Sheep and is used as a lambing area. Visit this spot in Late April and Early May for a chance to see lambs traversing the steep, rocky slopes of the Badlands. 

Roberts Prairie Dog Town

Have you ever seen a prairie dog? If the answer is no, you must stop here. Roberts Prairie Dog Town is the largest accessible viewing area in the park. Listen to the high-pitched squeaks and watch their puppy-like behavior from afar. 

The prairie dogs here are affected by Sylvatic plague. You should always keep your distance from wildlife but even more so knowing this plague can be passed to humans. Please do not feed the prairie dogs.

Yellow Mounds Overlook

Yellow Mounds Overlook has some of the most beautiful colors and textures in Badlands National Park. The mounds were formed when the sea drained, leaving the mud exposed to air to solidify into fossil rock. This is a beautiful spot to catch a sunset in the park; golden hour really makes these colors light up! 

Badlands National Park White River Entrance 

The White River entrance is the only entrance to the South Unit and the White River Visitor Center. It is the least visited area of Badlands National Park, however, that doesn’t mean there isn’t amazing things to do here. 

White River Visitor Center

Located at the junction of 27 and 2, the White River Visitor Center should be your first stop when entering the White River area of the park.

The White River Visitor Center is located on the Pine Ridge Reservation and offers visitors exhibits, restrooms, water, and an information desk with informative park rangers! Stop by to grab a map and learn about the Badlands and treaties in Lakota heritage. 

Sheep Mountain Table

Sheep Mountain Table is a gorgeous lookout in South Unit of Badlands National Park. A dirt, 4-wheel drive road travels 5 miles into the Badlands wilderness to scenic overlook. Continue further to the summit of Sheep Mountain if that interests you!

For individuals who do not have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, hiking or mountain biking the road is an option. Traveling Sheep Mountain road in or just after a storm is not recommended. 

Badlands National Park FAQs: Let’s Dig Up the Answers to your Questions

1. Where Should I Stay When I Visit the Badlands?

Free Camping: Buffalo Gap National Grassland or Sage Creek Campground in the Park

Camping: Cedar Pass Campground 

Hotel: Badlands Frontier Cabins and Best Western Plains Motel  in Wall and Badlands Motel and Campground in Interior & Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast in Interior. 

2. How Many Days Do I Need in Badlands National Park?

If you’re efficient, one full day in Badlands National Park should allow you to hit all the popular trails and overlooks. If you like to take your time or you’re traveling with young children I would suggest two days in the park. 

3. Can I Find A Fossil in Badlands National Park?

Finding a fossil while you’re exploring the Badlands is actually quite likely! You’re most likely to find a fossil in the Badlands after heavy rain. If you do find a fossil, you should report it to the Visitor Center.

The Visitor Center has all the information you need on what to do if you think you’ve found a fossil! The best time to find fossils in the Badlands is right after it rains. 

4. Where is the Closest Airport to the Badlands?

There are several airports within 2 hours of Yellowstone National Park. The closest airport is Yellowstone Airport, however, the closest international airport is Bozeman Yellowstone International in Montana. 

• Rapid City Regional (RAP) – 1 hour to Pinnacles Entrance
• Pierre Regional Airport (PIR) – 2 hours to North East Entrance
• Sioux Falls Regional (FSD) – 4 hours to North East Entrance
• Denver International (DEN) – 6 hours to White River Entrance

5. What Native Land is Badlands National Park on?

The South Unit of Badlands National Park includes land on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. This land is owned by the Oglala Sioux Tribe and managed by the National Park Service under an agreement with the Tribe.

The Lakota people gave the Badlands its name. They dubbed the region the ‘mako sica’ or ‘bad lands’ because of its unforgiving terrain and lack of water. The Lakota consider the whole Black Hills region a sacred place, this includes the lands of Badlands National Park.

6. What Should I Wear When Hiking in the Badlands?

The Badlands are notoriously dry and hot in the summer. Covering up in clothing with SPF is a great way to stay safe from the sun and cooler in the long run.

We recommend light hiking pants or shorts with a long-sleeve sun shirt and bucket hat. Hiking boots or hiking sneakers with long socks to keep the pebbles out should also do the trick.

7. What Food and Drink Can I Find in Badlands National Park?

There is food and drink for purchase at the Cedar Pass Lodge. The restaurant here offers full sit down means and carry out snacks.

8. How Close is Badlands National Park to Wall Drug?

The famous Wall Drug is a mere 10 minute drive from the Pinnacles Entrance. Wall Drug Store is a thriving oasis of food, souvenirs, activities, and visitor information. Famous for its free ice water, Wall Drug has expanded into a must-see locations when visiting Badlands National Park.

9. When Should I Book Accommodations in Badlands?

Unless you’re staying in free and dispersed camping, you need to book your Badlands accommodations in advance. Many accommodations open 13 months in advance – I would book as soon as you know when you need to go.

10. How Would I Spend One Day in the Badlands?

Sunrise Hike: Wake Up Early to hike the Window or Door Trail for sunrise. Not only is the overlook east facing, but you’ll avoid the crowds at this popular hike by arriving in the early AM.

Hike: Head over from your sunrise hike to the Notch Trail (same parking lot) to experience this cool trail before the crowds make it less enjoyable. 

Ben Reifel Visitor Center: Check out the visitor center! Watch the film, learn what to do if you find a fossil, and purchase your Badlands National Park Gear. 

Lunch Break: Eat lunch at the Conata Picnic Area and check out the Pig Dig Site. 

Saddle Pass Trail: Hike this gorgeous trail with some serious elevation gain right off the bat for amazing views of the Badlands!

Roberts Prairie Dog Town: If you’ve never seen prairie dogs before, take a trip to Roberts Prairie Dog Town! It’s likely for you to see bison and bighorn sheep during your time in the park. We drove by around sunset and the pups were out and about in full force! 

Overlooks: There are so many overlooks in the Badlands and honestly, they all have very similar views. That’s not to say you shouldn’t check them out and explore the surrounding area though. Bring a few camp chairs and beverages to enjoy the sunset at an overlook of choice!

Conclusion

There are so many things to do in Badlands National Park on your trip! From hiking and fossil hunting to simple overlooks at sunset, you’ll love the views of this park.

Plan your route based on what entrance you’ll be entering. A well planned out adventure allows you to make the most out of your trip to the Badlands.