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The Ultimate Guide to a South Dakota Family Vacation: Black Hills and Badlands

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The Black Hills and Badlands region of South Dakota is an incredible destination for a family vacation.

When my family first visited, we were amazed by the variety of things to see and do, from breathtaking landscapes to unforgettable attractions.

But with so much to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to plan the perfect trip especially if you are limited on time.

That’s why I created this comprehensive guide—to make it easy for you to plan an unforgettable South Dakota family vacation, filled with adventure, history, and natural beauty.

Badlands National Park in South Dakota
Badlands National Park

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Understanding the Black Hills and Badlands

You often hear the terms “Black Hills” and “Badlands” when talking about this region, but what exactly do they mean—and what does that mean for your family vacation?

  • The Black Hills: This forested mountain range stretching across western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming is home to iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. It’s the perfect spot for outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and incredible wildlife viewing.
  • The Badlands: East of the Black Hills lies the rugged, otherworldly terrain of the Badlands. Badlands National Park is perfect for family hikes and awesome views.

Together, these two regions create a one-of-a-kind destination with diverse landscapes, so much history, and a multitude of attractions that every family will enjoy!

Top Attractions in the Black Hills and Badlands

Wall Drug

What to Expect: Just 8 miles north of Badlands National Park, Wall Drug is a quirky roadside attraction that’s a must-see on your road trip. With so much to explore, you could easily spend anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour here.

Top Activities at Wall Drug:

  • Shopping: Explore a variety of unique souvenirs and gifts, including a toy store that kids will love.
  • Dining: Enjoy homemade donuts and a family-friendly menu at the Western Art Gallery Restaurant. There is even a Soda Fountain Ice Cream Shop.
  • The Backyard: Take photos with the Jackalope, miniature Mount Rushmore, and a roaring T-Rex.
  • Free Ice Water: A long-time tradition that makes Wall Drug even more memorable.

Badlands National Park

Why Your Family Should Visit Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park features out of this world geological formations and vibrant colors that change with the sunlight.

Whether you spend a few hours or a couple of days, the breathtaking views, hiking, and kids scrambling opportunities make it a must-visit stop on your South Dakota trip.

Key Highlights:

➡️ Easy Family Hikes:

  • Fossil Exhibit Trail: A short, 0.25-mile boardwalk hike perfect for young kids.
  • Door Trail: A 0.75-mile round trip with the first 0.25 miles on a boardwalk, offering incredible views.
  • Windows Trail: Another 0.25-mile trail leading to a “window” overlooking the canyon.

➡️ Open Hike Policy: Kids can explore and climb almost anywhere. My kids LOVED this! They had a blast scrambling up the formations.

➡️ Scenic Drive: The Badlands Loop Road offers numerous overlooks and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Three boys standing by the large brown sign that says Entering Badlands National Park.

📌 Personal Tip:

We visited Badlands National Park for part of a day on our way back from spending time in the Custer area. While it was a stunning experience, I felt rushed to see everything and wished we had allocated more time. I recommend spending at least a full day, if not two, to truly take in the park’s beauty and enjoy its trails and overlooks.

When to Visit:

Some of the best times to visit Badlands National Park are late spring or early fall when the weather is cooler. However, be prepared for variable temperatures. For example, we visited in mid-April, and it was absolutely freezing with strong winds. Layers are essential for comfort in this unpredictable climate.

Only Have Time for a Quick Stop?

Even if you’re short on time, it’s still worth stopping to see what you can. The dramatic landscapes make even a brief visit worthwhile.

Tips for Visiting Badlands National Park:

  • Visit in late spring or early fall for cooler weather.
  • Prepare for limited shade and high summer temperatures.
  • Make sure to make a stop at the Visitor’s Center for a souvenir and to get your National Park stamp!

Custer State Park

Custer State Park is often considered the crown jewel of South Dakota family vacations. With scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities, it’s a must-visit destination. 🦬

Top Things to See in Custer State Park

1. Wildlife Loop Road:

  • Loop is 18 miles and will take a hour or so.
  • Drive this loop early in the morning or near sunset (the best times for wildlife viewing). 🌅
  • Keep an eye out for herds of bison and the famous begging burros. 🦬

🌟 We loved seeing all of the bison and even the begging burros- they did come right up to the car. We did not feed them as advised.

2. Needles Highway:

  • A stunning 14-mile drive with granite spires and narrow tunnels. 🚗
  • Open seasonally from April to October.
  • Plenty of opportunities to pull-off to hike or take a picture of the sights. 📸

3. Sylvan Lake:

  • Located along Needles Highway
  • Perfect for picnicking, hiking, and water activities like paddle boating and canoeing. 🧺 🥾 🛶
  • A scenic hike around the lake offers beautiful views.
Sylvan Lake

Tips for Visiting Custer State Park:

  • Arrive early to do the Wildlife Loop first for the best wildlife viewing.
  • Bring a picnic lunch or enjoy a meal at Legion Lake Lodge for picturesque lakeside dining just a mile from the start of Needles Highway

Our Experience at Custer State Park:

We did Wildlife Loop first, had lunch at Legion Lake Lodge, continued to the Needles Highway, and finally spent a couple of hours at Sylvan Lake.

This worked out well and took the entire day. It was the perfect mix of driving, exploring, eating, and hiking.

The biggest take away is to start the Wildlife Loop early in the day!

A close up of a bison on the Wildlife Loop drive in Custer State Park.
Bison on the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park

Mount Rushmore

One of the primary reasons why we traveled to the Badlands and Black Hills area on our South Dakota family vacation was to see Mount Rushmore.

Thankfully, it did not disappoint! It was so exciting to see these iconic statues.

Mt. Rushmore Highlights:

  • Avenue of the Flags: A patriotic walkway leading to the Grand View Terrace. It is super cool to see all 50 flags plus 6 more flags for the U.S. territories.
  • Presidential Trail: A 0.6-mile trail with 422 steps that provides closer views of the monument.
  • Visitor Center: Learn about the history and construction of the memorial.
  • Evening Lighting Ceremony: This seasonal event would be super cool to see if you can time your visit just right!
View of Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore

What to Expect:

  • Parking costs $10, but entry to Mt. Rushmore is free.
  • As you enter, the first thing you will see is the Avenue of the Flags. This walkway will lead you to the Grand View Terrace (main viewing platform). 🇺🇸

📌 Recommend Activity: Have the kids look at the plaques for each state and find out the date each became a state. Our kids LOVED doing this!

  • After getting some pictures from the Grand View Terrace, proceed to the Presidential Trail which will take you to a viewing area at the foot of the mountain.
  • Walk the Presidential Trail clockwise for an easier descent.
  • The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center (includes exhibits, a 14 minute film, and small gift shop) is underneath the Grand View Terrace as well as an amphitheater.
  • Don’t miss Memorial Team Ice Cream for a sweet treat or Carver’s Cafe for a variety of food options. 🍦
  • Finally, make a stop at the gift shop for a souvenir! 🛍

Top Tip

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is part of the National Park Service so children of all ages can participate in the Junior Ranger program. The program offers age-specific activities so this is perfect for families with children of multiple ages!

Crazy Horse Memorial

On our trip to South Dakota, we had the chance to visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, and I’m so glad we did.

While I know some visitors have felt disappointed at this attraction, I didn’t share that sentiment. Having heard about the memorial for years, I was thrilled to see the progress in person and experience it firsthand.

That said, if you’re limited on time and need to cut something from your trip, I’d suggest skipping the Crazy Horse Memorial. It’s not as engaging or exciting for kids as some of the other attractions.

What to Do at Crazy Horse Memorial:

  • View the massive carving from outdoor platforms.
  • Explore three museums filled with Native American artifacts.
  • Stop by the gift shop and grab a bite at the restaurant.
  • Watch the daily live performances showcasing Native American Culture (During the summer months only. We visited in April so weren’t able to experience this.)
Crazy Horse Memorial miniature carving with the actual Crazy Horse Memorial in the background.
Miniature Crazy Horse Memorial Carving

What to Expect:

  • Admission costs vary, with family rates available. (Typically, it’s about $10–$15 per person for up to three people. For families with more than three members, the cost is capped at the family rate for three.)
  • Parking is free
  • Plan extra time to fully explore the museums and exhibits.
  • During select times, bus rides to the base of the mountain are available for an additional $5 per person.
  • The view of the Crazy Horse Memorial from the outdoor viewing veranda and Wall of Windows is quite distant. Knowing this ahead of time can help you set realistic expectations for seeing the carving up close.
View of the Crazy Horse Memorial from the veranda.
Outdoor veranda for viewing the Crazy Horse Memorial and the carving in the distance.

Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park features one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world.

We only visited Wind Cave National Park for a short time as when we arrived most all the cave tours were already booked up.

Tips for Visiting Wind Cave National Park

  • If you plan to take a cave tour, be sure to arrive early—ideally by 7 a.m., but no later than 8 a.m. The visitor center opens at 8 a.m., but a line for cave tours tickets often forms before then.
  • All cave tours require a purchased ticket.
  • Baby carriers are not allowed on the cave tours. If you’re visiting with a baby or small child who can’t walk on their own, you’ll need to carry them in your arms during the tour.
  • Some cave tours have age restrictions, so it’s important to research and choose your desired tour in advance. Make sure the tour you select is suitable for everyone in your family.
  • Enjoy the above-ground prairie trails and wildlife viewing opportunities if cave tours are unavailable.
  • Bring a sweatshirt or jacket for the cave tours as the temperatures in the caves are cool even in the summer.
  • Don’t forget to get your picture in front of the national park sign–a must for our family.
Two boys standing near national park sign for Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota.
Wind Cave National Park sign

Bear Country USA

Bear Country USA is a drive-through wildlife park located just 8 miles outside of Rapid City.

It’s a unique opportunity to see North American wildlife up close, including black bears, elk, and wolves.

After the drive-through, make sure to park to do the walk-through portion of Bear Country USA too!

View of a black bear at Bear Country USA in South Dakota.

What to Expect When Visiting Bear Country USA

  • Admission to Bear Country USA is pricey at $80 maximum per vehicle or it is $22 per adult and $17 per child ages 5-12 BUT is worth it if you are willing and able to spend the money.
  • Animals we saw include but are not limited to bighorn sheep, elk, buffalo, arctic wolves, mountain lions, reindeer, and timber wolves.
  • After the drive, you can park and explore the Wildlife Walk area, which features smaller animals and younger animals under one year old.

🌟 We LOVED seeing the baby bears and learning about them. 💕

  • Visit the Grub Hub Snack Shack for a bite to eat. (not always available early and late in the season)
  • The Wildlife Walk area is also a lovely and relaxing spot to stroll through, with a patio, benches, bear statues, and a gift shop.

Tips for Visiting Bear Country USA

  • Drive slowly and keep your windows closed for safety.
  • Visit early in the day for the most active wildlife.
  • Allow about 1-2 hours for your visit.
Kids playing on a bear statue at Bear Country USA in South Dakota.

Additional Attractions Near Rapid City

In case you are looking for a couple more attractions for your family, here are some additional recommended options near Rapid City. I have not personally visited these attractions, but I have heard positive things about them.

Reptile Gardens

What to Expect: Located near Rapid City, Reptile Gardens is home to exotic reptiles, botanical gardens, and family-friendly shows.

Top Attractions:

  • Reptile Exhibits: See alligators, snakes, and tropical birds.
  • Sky Dome: A lush indoor garden with free-roaming birds and reptiles. Yes, you will see lizards, frogs, and parrots roaming throughout the Sky Dome! 🦎 🦜
  • Live Shows: Educational and interactive shows including a snake and crocodile shows. 🐍 🐊
  • Virtual Reality Adventures: Choose between 5 different short film experiences that are fully immersive and are sure to impress!

Dinosaur Park

What to Expect: Standing on a hill in Rapid City, resides 7 life-sized dinosaur statues plus panoramic views of the city. There is also a cafe and gift shop. This is a fantastic quick and free stop on your South Dakota family vacation! 🦕

Tips for Visiting Dinosaur Park:

  • Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly stop.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the short walk up the hill.
  • Visiting during sunrise or sunset makes for an extra special memory- bring your camera! 📸

Storybook Island

What to Expect: Storybook Island is on my bucket list, but we didn’t have time to check out it on our visit to Rapid City. This charming, free children’s park features themed play areas based on classic storybook characters including Wizard of Oz, Winnie the Pooh, Dr. Seuss, Humpty Dumpty, Three Little Pigs, and more! 🌈 🍯 🐷

Where to Stay on Your Black Hills Vacation

Custer State Park Lodges: These lodges offer a mix of rustic and cozy cabins, hotel-like rooms, and spacious lodges right inside the park. Staying here puts you in the heart of nature and close to the park’s top attractions, such as Sylvan Lake and the Wildlife Loop Road.

Vacation Rental in Hill City: During our trip, we stayed at a vacation rental near Hill City, and it was the perfect location for exploring the Black Hills. Hill City is centrally located, making it easy to visit spots like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park.

Keystone Hotels: Keystone is a great base for families visiting Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. It has a variety of accommodations and dining options.

Rapid City: If you prefer a town with more amenities, Rapid City has plenty of family-friendly hotels, restaurants, and easy access to places like Dinosaur Park, Bear Country USA, and Reptile Gardens.

Badlands National ParkWind Cave National ParkCuster State ParkMt. RushmoreBear Country USA
Rapid City1 hour55 minutes33 minutes32 minutes13 minutes
Keystone1 hour
20 minutes
52 minutes32 minutes8 minutes14 minutes
Hill City1 hour
26 minutes
37 minutes25 minutes20 minutes20 minutes
Custer State Park Lodges1 hour
11 minutes
30 minutes5 minutes45 minutes35 minutes
* These are approximate driving times. Driving time may fluctuate based on traffic and exact location of your hotel or vacation rental.

Why the Black Hills and Badlands Are One of My Top Family-Friendly Destinations

The Black Hills and Badlands region of South Dakota is a destination that perfectly blends adventure, natural beauty, and history, making it an unforgettable spot for families.

From breathtaking national parks to quirky roadside attractions, this area truly has something for everyone.

For me, South Dakota is high on my list of top family-friendly vacation destinations, and I can’t recommend it enough for your next getaway.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more, the Black Hills and Badlands promise endless opportunities for adventure and family memories.

Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park in South Dakota.
Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park

Download my complimentary travel itinerary planner to help you plan your family vacation to South Dakota or wherever you next adventure takes you!

May you love your adventure! KW

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