Exploring the Badlands: South Dakota’s Wild Beauty

Exploring the Badlands: South Dakota’s Wild Beauty

If you’re looking for jaw-dropping landscapes, wildlife encounters, and the kind of hikes that leave you both breathless and restored.

South Dakota’s Badlands National Park should be on your travel bucket list. Our recent adventure through the Badlands was filled with unforgettable sunsets, close-up views of bison, peaceful lake hikes in Custer State Park, and cozy nights under the stars at the campground. Here’s a breakdown of our experience, tips, and what you should absolutely not miss.

🥾 Hiking the Badlands

The Badlands offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and serene quiet. Here are a few hikes we loved:

• Notch Trail – This was hands-down our favorite! It’s a short (1.5 miles round trip) but adventurous hike that includes a log ladder climb and epic views over the White River Valley.

• Door Trail – A great intro to Badlands terrain. This one is easy and perfect for families or those short on time.

• Castle Trail – If you're up for a longer trek (10 miles round-trip), this trail gives you sweeping views and takes you through the heart of the Badlands formations.

Tip: Start hikes early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat—especially in the summer months. Always pack water, even for short hikes.

🌅 Wildlife & Sunset Drives

Driving through the park during golden hour was magic. We saw herds of bison grazing right along the road, especially near the Sage Creek Rim Road. Pronghorns, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep also made appearances.

For the best chance at spotting wildlife:

• Take a sunset drive along Loop Road.

• Visit Roberts Prairie Dog Town.

• Drive Sage Creek Rim Road for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experience.

🏕️ Staying Inside the Park

We stayed right inside the national park at the Cedar Pass Campground, which gave us front-row seats to sunrises and easy access to the trails. If you’re into stargazing, this is one of the best places in the U.S. to see the Milky Way. There are also cabins available at Cedar Pass Lodge if tent camping isn’t your thing.

Campground Tip: Book early if you're going in peak season (May–September). Campsites fill up fast.

🏞️ Day Trip to Custer State Park

We spent a full day exploring Custer State Park, about 1.5 hours from the Badlands. The Sylvan Lake Shore Trail was a peaceful hike around crystal-clear water surrounded by towering granite spires. It’s also a great spot for a picnic or quick swim.

Don’t miss:

• Needles Highway – One of the most scenic drives we’ve ever done.

• Wildlife Loop Road – More bison, burros, and sweeping views.

📍 Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time, consider adding these to your itinerary:

• Wall Drug – A quirky roadside stop with snacks, shops, and free ice water.

• Mount Rushmore – Just under two hours from Badlands.

• Wind Cave National Park – An underground adventure and another chance to see bison.

Final Thoughts

South Dakota surprised us in all the best ways. From hiking among the alien-like formations of the Badlands to spotting bison under a fiery sunset, this trip was the perfect mix of wild adventure and peaceful escape. Whether you're tent camping or just visiting for the day, the Badlands should be on your radar.