The Best Campgrounds Near Badlands National Park

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

Badlands National Park is a vast and rugged landscape of canyons, buttes, and pinnacles. It’s a place where you can hike, bike, and explore the wilderness. But if you want to experience the park to its fullest, you need to camp there.

Camping in Badlands National Park is an amazing way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. You’ll wake up to stunning sunrises over the Badlands, and you’ll have the chance to see wildlife like bison, prairie dogs, and coyotes.

There are several different campgrounds in Badlands National Park, each with its own unique features. So whether you’re looking for a rustic experience or a more luxurious one, you’re sure to find a campground that’s perfect for you.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different campgrounds in Badlands National Park. We’ll discuss the amenities they offer, their location, and the best times to visit them. So if you’re planning a trip to Badlands National Park, be sure to read on for all the information you need to know about camping in the park.

Campground Location Amenities
Ben Reifel National Grassland 15 miles north of Badlands National Park Campsites, picnic areas, hiking trails, fishing
Cactus Flats Campground Inside Badlands National Park Campsites, hiking trails, ranger programs
Sylvan Lake Recreation Area 25 miles west of Badlands National Park Campsites, picnic areas, hiking trails, fishing

Campgrounds in Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park is a beautiful and unique place to visit, and camping is a great way to experience all that it has to offer. The park has four campgrounds, each with its own unique features.

Cedar Pass Campground is the largest campground in Badlands National Park, with over 200 campsites. It is located near the park’s visitor center and is a popular choice for first-time visitors. The campground has flush toilets, water, and a dump station.

Elk Mountain Campground is located in the northern part of the park, near the town of Wall. It is a smaller campground with only 40 campsites, but it offers stunning views of the Badlands. The campground has pit toilets and a water spigot.

Sage Creek Campground is located in the backcountry of the park. It is a primitive campground with no facilities, but it offers solitude and stunning views of the Badlands. The campground has 12 campsites and is only accessible by hiking or horseback riding.

Little Missouri Campground is located near the town of Medora, North Dakota. It is a small campground with only 10 campsites, but it is a great option for visitors who want to explore the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The campground has flush toilets, water, and a dump station.

Campground Reservations

Campground reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance. Reservations can be made online at the National Park Service website or by calling the Badlands National Park Visitor Center at (605) 433-5361.

Camping Fees

Camping fees vary depending on the campground. The fees for Cedar Pass Campground are $20 per night for a standard campsite and $30 per night for a premium campsite. The fees for Elk Mountain Campground are $15 per night for a standard campsite and $20 per night for a premium campsite. The fees for Sage Creek Campground are $10 per night for a standard campsite and $15 per night for a premium campsite. The fees for Little Missouri Campground are $15 per night for a standard campsite and $20 per night for a premium campsite.

Camping Tips

  • Be prepared for extreme weather conditions. The weather in Badlands National Park can change quickly, so it is important to be prepared for both hot and cold weather.
  • Bring plenty of water. The Badlands can be very dry, so it is important to bring plenty of water with you.
  • Wear sturdy shoes. The terrain in Badlands National Park can be rough, so it is important to wear sturdy shoes.
  • Take precautions against wildlife. There are a variety of wildlife in Badlands National Park, including bears, bison, and rattlesnakes. It is important to take precautions against wildlife, such as staying in your campsite at night and not approaching wildlife.

Camping in Badlands National Park is a great way to experience all that the park has to offer. With its stunning scenery, challenging terrain, and abundant wildlife, Badlands National Park is a truly unique place to visit.

Campgrounds near Badlands National Park

In addition to the campgrounds within Badlands National Park, there are also a number of campgrounds located near the park. These campgrounds offer a variety of amenities and activities, and they are a great option for visitors who want to explore the park and the surrounding area.

Custer State Park

Custer State Park is located just 15 miles from Badlands National Park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and deer. It also has a number of hiking trails, camping facilities, and a swimming pool.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located about 45 miles from Badlands National Park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and bears. It also has a number of hiking trails, camping facilities, and a visitor center.

Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave National Monument is located about 50 miles from Badlands National Park. The monument is home to the third-longest cave system in the world. It also has a number of hiking trails, camping facilities, and a visitor center.

Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is located about 60 miles from Badlands National Park. The park is home to a number of caves, including Wind Cave, which is the third-longest cave in the world. It also has a number of hiking trails, camping facilities, and a visitor center.

Campground Amenities and Activities

The campgrounds near Badlands National

Where to Camp Near Badlands National Park?

Badlands National Park is a popular destination for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park is located in southwestern South Dakota and covers an area of over 243,000 acres. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including bison, prairie dogs, and pronghorn antelope.

There are a number of campgrounds located within Badlands National Park, as well as several campgrounds in the surrounding area. When choosing a campground, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • Location: The best campgrounds are located near the park entrance or along scenic drives. This will make it easier to access the park’s hiking trails and other attractions.
  • Amenities: Some campgrounds offer more amenities than others, such as flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities. If you are looking for a campground with a lot of amenities, you will likely have to pay more.
  • Cost: The cost of camping varies from campground to campground. The most expensive campgrounds are located in the park, while the most affordable campgrounds are located in the surrounding area.
  • Reservations: Some campgrounds require reservations, while others do not. It is important to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak season.

Here are some of the best campgrounds near Badlands National Park:

  • Cliffside Campground: This campground is located within Badlands National Park and offers stunning views of the Badlands. The campground has 50 sites, all of which are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. There are also flush toilets and showers available.
  • Pinnacles Campground: This campground is also located within Badlands National Park and offers a variety of hiking trails. The campground has 30 sites, all of which are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. There are also flush toilets and showers available.
  • Buckhorn Campground: This campground is located just outside of Badlands National Park and offers easy access to the park’s attractions. The campground has 40 sites, all of which are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. There are also flush toilets and showers available.
  • Mile 3 Campground: This campground is located just a few miles from Badlands National Park and offers stunning views of the Badlands. The campground has 20 sites, all of which are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. There are also flush toilets and showers available.

Things to consider when choosing a campground

When choosing a campground, there are a few things to keep in mind. These include:

  • Location: The location of the campground is important, especially if you are planning on doing a lot of hiking or exploring the park. You want to make sure that the campground is located near the park entrance or along a scenic drive.
  • Amenities: Some campgrounds offer more amenities than others, such as flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities. If you are looking for a campground with a lot of amenities, you will likely have to pay more.
  • Cost: The cost of camping varies from campground to campground. The most expensive campgrounds are located in the park, while the most affordable campgrounds are located in the surrounding area.
  • Reservations: Some campgrounds require reservations, while others do not. It is important to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak season.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a campground:

  • Pets: Some campgrounds allow pets, while others do not. If you are bringing your pet with you, make sure to check the campground’s pet policy before you book your reservation.
  • Quiet hours: Some campgrounds have quiet hours, which means that you are not allowed to make noise after a certain time. If you are looking for a campground where you can relax and enjoy the peace and quiet, make sure to check the campground’s quiet hours policy.
  • Fire restrictions: Some campgrounds have fire restrictions, which means that you are not allowed to have a campfire. If you are planning on having a campfire, make sure to check the campground’s fire restrictions before you book your reservation.

Tips for camping in Badlands National Park

Camping in Badlands National Park can be a great experience, but there are a few things you need to know to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

  • Pack light: When packing for a camping trip in Badlands National Park, it is important to pack light. You will be doing a lot of hiking, so you don’t want to be weighed down by heavy gear.
  • Bring plenty of water: The Badlands can be very hot and dry, so it is important to bring plenty of water. You should drink at least

    Q: Where are the best places to camp near Badlands National Park?

A: There are many great camping options near Badlands National Park, each with its own unique benefits. Here are a few of the most popular:

  • Custer State Park: Located just 15 miles from the park entrance, Custer State Park offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The park is also home to a number of wildlife, including bison, elk, and deer.
  • Wind Cave National Park: Located about 40 miles from Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park offers a unique camping experience in its backcountry. Backcountry camping is only allowed in designated areas, and permits are required.
  • Buffalo Gap National Grassland: Located about 50 miles from Badlands National Park, Buffalo Gap National Grassland offers a variety of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and primitive camping. The grassland is also home to a variety of wildlife, including antelope, prairie dogs, and coyotes.

Q: What are the different types of camping available near Badlands National Park?

A: There are three main types of camping available near Badlands National Park:

  • RV camping: RV camping is available at a number of campgrounds near Badlands National Park. Most campgrounds have full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer.
  • Tent camping: Tent camping is available at a number of campgrounds near Badlands National Park. Most campgrounds have basic amenities, such as restrooms and showers.
  • Backcountry camping: Backcountry camping is only allowed in designated areas in Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park. Backcountry campers must obtain a permit from the park before they begin their trip.

Q: What are the best times of year to camp near Badlands National Park?

A: The best time to camp near Badlands National Park depends on what you are looking for in a camping experience. The park is open year-round, but each season offers its own unique benefits and challenges.

  • Spring: Spring is a great time to camp in Badlands National Park, as the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom. However, the park can be crowded during this time of year.
  • Summer: Summer is the most popular time to camp in Badlands National Park, as the days are long and the weather is warm. However, the park can be very hot and crowded during this time of year.
  • Fall: Fall is a beautiful time to camp in Badlands National Park, as the weather is cool and the leaves are changing color. However, the park can be windy and cold during this time of year.
  • Winter: Winter is a great time to camp in Badlands National Park, as the park is less crowded and the weather is mild. However, the park can be snowy and icy during this time of year.

Q: What are some of the amenities that are available at campgrounds near Badlands National Park?

A: The amenities that are available at campgrounds near Badlands National Park vary depending on the campground. However, most campgrounds have at least the following amenities:

  • Restrooms: Most campgrounds have restrooms, both flush and pit toilets.
  • Showers: Some campgrounds have showers, either hot or cold.
  • Water: Most campgrounds have potable water available.
  • Electricity: Some campgrounds have electrical hookups, either 30-amp or 50-amp.
  • Fire rings: Most campgrounds have fire rings for campfires.
  • Picnic tables: Most campgrounds have picnic tables.

Q: What are some of the things to do near Badlands National Park?

A: There are a number of things to do near Badlands National Park, including:

  • Hiking: There are a number of hiking trails in Badlands National Park and the surrounding area. Trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous.
  • Biking: There are a number of biking trails in Badlands National Park and the surrounding area. Trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous.
  • Camping: There are a number of campgrounds in Badlands National Park and the surrounding area. Campgrounds range in amenities from basic to full-service.
  • Fishing: There are a number of fishing spots in Badlands National Park and the surrounding area. Fish species include trout, bass, and catfish.
  • Hunting: Hunting is allowed in Badlands National Park and the surrounding area. Game animals include deer, elk, and antelope.
  • Stargazing: Badlands

    there are many different camping options near Badlands National Park, each with its own unique set of features and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a rustic experience in the backcountry or a more comfortable stay in a developed campground, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next camping trip to Badlands National Park today!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.