Badlands National Park

Things to do near Badlands National Park

While exploring Badlands National Park, visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including shopping, sightseeing, and guided tours. A highlight of the experience is the opportunity to camp amidst the stunning landscapes, allowing for an immersive connection with nature. Be sure to take advantage of the park’s breathtaking vistas and unique geological formations during your visit.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, Wall Drug is a great shopping destination located 17.7km away from Badlands National Park. This shopping mall offers a unique blend of entertainment and a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for finding gifts and souvenirs during your visit.

Recreation

The Wall Golf Course, located 14.5km from Badlands National Park, offers a scenic golfing experience amidst the stunning landscapes. Meanwhile, the Sage Creek Wilderness Area, 32.2km away, provides serene trails and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation in nature.

Adventure

The Notch Trail, located 19.3km from Badlands National Park, offers a thrilling hike with breathtaking views. The Fossil Exhibit Trail, 29.0km away, immerses you in ancient landscapes, while the Saddle Pass Trailhead, 30.6km distant, presents a steep ascent for an exhilarating outdoor adventure amidst stunning scenery.

Nightlife

While Badlands National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, nightlife is more subdued. Experience the local charm at the Badlands Saloon for a laid-back evening, or enjoy stargazing at the park’s serene viewpoints, where the night sky dazzles with stars far from city lights.

Find the best attractions near Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of attractions, including museums, visitor centres, and historic sites. Whether you seek cultural enrichment, adventurous outings, or family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Exploring this stunning landscape will provide memorable experiences that showcase the unique charm of South Dakota.

• Pinnacles Entrance Badlands: Located a mere 8.0km from Badlands National Park, this visitor centre offers a perfect introduction to the park's stunning landscapes. It’s an ideal starting point for adventure seekers and families, providing outdoor activities and essential information to enhance your experience.
• Roberts Prairie Dog Town: Just 6.4km away, this charming attraction allows visitors to observe playful prairie dogs in their natural habitat. With a family-friendly atmosphere and opportunities for excursions, it's a delightful spot to learn about these fascinating creatures amidst friendly locals.
• Wounded Knee Museum: Situated 16.1km from the park, this museum immerses visitors in the rich cultural history of the Lakota people. Offering a profound insight into indigenous heritage, it is a must-visit for those interested in understanding the region's historical context.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Badlands National Park

To save money on your visit to Badlands National Park, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally on a Tuesday for the best rates, and utilise Expedia to compare prices and find last-minute deals. Opt for package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Exploring the park's stunning landscapes and hiking trails is free, offering a budget-friendly way to appreciate the natural beauty without spending a penny.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Badlands National Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Badlands National Park about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Badlands National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Badlands National Park is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top of your list. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Badlands National Park with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.