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Badlands National Park
Attraction
4.9 (15698 reviews)
244,000 rugged acres of geological formations, prairie grass & wildlife like bison & bighorn sheep.
South Dakota
+1 605-433-5361
Did You Know?
Acreage
Badlands National Park covers over 244,000 acres of rugged beauty, featuring sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires.
Fossil Beds
The Badlands boasts one of the world's richest fossil beds, containing the remains of ancient mammals like sabre-toothed cats, rhinos, and horses that roamed the area 23 to 35 million years ago.
Mixed-Grass Prairie
Beyond the dramatic geological formations, the park also preserves the largest undisturbed mixed-grass prairie in the United States, home to bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.
Cold War Site
Surprisingly, Badlands National Park is adjacent to a Cold War-era Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, reminding visitors of a different kind of history beyond the geological.
Highlights from Reviews
• breathtaking scenery
The park offers stunning, otherworldly landscapes with unique rock formations, colorful layers, and dramatic views that photos don't capture.
• abundant wildlife
Visitors frequently encounter bison, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and other animals, enhancing the experience significantly.
• accessible for all
Numerous overlooks, short walks, and scenic drives allow even non-hikers to enjoy the park's beauty, with well-maintained roads.
• excellent visitor center
The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is highly praised for helpful rangers, informative exhibits, a fossil prep lab, and good gift shop.
• unique hiking trails
Trails like the Notch Trail offer adventurous elements (e.g., ladders) and rewarding views, appealing to various skill levels.
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