Badlands National Park

Before you go

• Sage Creek is free, first-come, first-served and has no water. Motor homes, trailers and RVs over 18 feet (about 5.5 m) are prohibited.
• Cedar Pass Campground has 96 level sites near the visitor center, with electrical hookups at select sites.
• Backpackers may camp at least half a mile from roads and trails and out of sight of roads.
• Weather is variable. The park lists extremes from 116 °F to −40 °F, with hot and dry summers.

Camping

Cedar Pass Campground lies near the visitor center and has a winter section that stays open all year. Sage Creek Primitive Campground is on the park's west side and has pit toilets but no water. Generators and ground fires are not permitted there. Stays are limited to 14 days at both campgrounds, and campfires are not allowed at either. Camp stoves and contained charcoal grills are permitted. Season dates and fees change, so check the park's page.

Backcountry

Backpackers may camp anywhere at least half a mile from roads and trails and out of sight of roads. The Badlands Wilderness covers about a quarter of the park. This is walk-in camping only. Large vehicles cannot be used for it, and the camping page should be checked for current rules before you plan.

FAQs