Top 10 Tips for Visiting Badlands National Park in South Dakota

It often surprises people that South Dakota is part of the Midwest, especially since parts of the state—like the Badlands—feel more rugged and mountainous. But yes, it’s firmly a Midwest state, and it’s home to one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region: Badlands National Park.

I visited the Badlands during peak season (June), and to my surprise, it exceeded all expectations. Whether you’re a solo traveler, road-tripping family, or national park enthusiast, here are my top tips for visiting the Badlands—from one traveler to another.

1. Arrive Early to the Badlands (and Visit on a Weekday)

Timing makes a big difference in the Badlands National Park. I arrived just before 8:00 a.m. on a Monday and had huge stretches of the park practically to myself. The light was beautiful, the air was cool, and I could enjoy scenic stops without the crowds.

Why it matters:

• Fewer people = better photo ops
• Cooler temps = more enjoyable hiking and driving
• Wildlife = more active early in the day

If possible, avoid weekends, and consider splitting your visit into two parts—morning and late afternoon—for different lighting and experiences.

2. Don’t Rely on Local Dining – Bring Your Own Snacks

Here’s one of the most important Badlands tips: pack food ahead of time. Dining options near the park are limited and unpredictable. Some places may not be open depending on the day, and if you have food restrictions (like I do), it’s especially tricky.

What to know:

• Wall, South Dakota, has a grocery store, but options are minimal.
• Fast food is scarce (there’s a Dairy Queen in Wall).
• Wall Drug is iconic but can be pricey and crowded.
• Tip: Pack a cooler with drinks, snacks, and meals. It saved me time, money, and stress.

3. Badlands is Accessible—Even Without Hiking

Don’t feel pressured to hike miles to enjoy the Badlands. There are plenty of scenic overlooks, pullouts, and short boardwalk trails that are wheelchair- and stroller-friendly.

Great for:

• Travelers with limited mobility
• Families with young kids
• Anyone who just wants to drive and enjoy the views
• I hiked just one of the park’s shortest trails and still felt completely fulfilled with my visit.

4. Fuel Up & Clean Your Windshield Before Entering the Badlands

Here’s a practical travel tip: there are no gas stations inside Badlands National Park. Fill up in Wall or another nearby town before entering, especially if you plan to drive the full loop.

Also, clean your windshield! After driving across South Dakota, my windshield was splattered with bugs, obstructing those gorgeous scenic views.

5. Best Time to See Wildlife? Afternoon on the Dirt Roads

Some of the best wildlife spotting happened in the late afternoon, especially on the dirt roads off the main loop. I saw bison, prairie dogs, and even bighorn sheep.

Pro Tips:

• Drive slow and stay quiet.
• Bring binoculars for better viewing.
• Never feed the wildlife—even if reviews suggest bringing peanuts for prairie dogs. It’s harmful and against park rules.
• Notably, I noticed prairie dogs in the Badlands were noticeably larger than those in nearby Custer State Park—likely due to being fed by humans. Cute, yes, but not healthy.

6. Solo Travelers: You’ll Feel Right at Home

If you’re hesitant about visiting national parks alone—don’t be. Solo travel is very common in the park circuit. I met fellow solo travelers, exchanged photos, and even walked part of a trail with someone I’d just met.

Good to know:

• You’ll be far from alone.
• It’s easy to connect—or stay solo if that’s your style.
• National parks attract people of all ages and backgrounds—families, retirees, road-trippers, and adventurers alike.

7. Traveling with Pets? Be Aware of Restrictions

Pets are allowed in the Badlands, but there are strict limits:

• Leashes are required at all times.
• Pets are not allowed on trails or scenic overlooks.
• Parking lots and developed areas are the only pet-friendly zones.

This is for everyone’s safety—there are predators in the area, and we want to protect both wildlife and humans. If you’re traveling with a pet, plan accordingly and consider their needs before you head out.

8. Prepare for Extreme Weather Swings

This is one of the most important Midwest travel tips I can share: pack for everything. On the same June day, temperatures ranged from 48°F to 80°F.

Weather tips for the Badlands:

• Dress in layers.
• Mornings and higher elevations can be chilly.
• Wind picks up in the afternoon, especially in the higher areas.
• Avoid driving the dirt roads late in the day when the wind can make it harder to navigate.

9. Keep Your Car Windows Closed on Dirt Roads

The temptation to enjoy fresh air is real, but trust me, keep the windows up on unpaved roads. The Badlands are very dry and dusty, and I made the mistake of driving with the windows down. My car interior ended up covered in red dust that was a nightmare to clean.

10. Save Money with the America the Beautiful Pass

If you’re planning to visit two or more national parks within a year, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass is a great deal.

Cost: $80/year

Badlands entry fee: $30

Other nearby parks (like Wind Cave National Park, Custer State Park, and Mount Rushmore National Monument) also have fees. I visited three parks on this trip alone, so the pass quickly paid for itself.

Recommended Items to Pack

✔️ Cooler with food and drinks

✔️ Binoculars for wildlife spotting

✔️ Layers for changing weather

✔️ Sunscreen and sunglasses

✔️ Refillable water bottle

✔️ Maps (GPS is spotty!)

✔️ Camera with extra battery

✔️ Full tank of gas

The Badlands are unlike anything else in the Midwest—jagged peaks, painted canyons, and quiet landscapes that feel almost otherworldly. It’s a must-visit destination in South Dakota, and with a little prep, your trip can be smooth, scenic, and unforgettable.

If you’ve been or plan to go, I’d love to hear your experiences. Drop a comment and swap Midwest travel stories!

Watch my Badlands video!

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