Badlands National Park is a treasure trove for paleontologists and history enthusiasts alike. The park boasts a wealth of fossil sites, including those of prehistoric horses, sheep, rhinos, and pigs. Moreover, findings from human civilizations dating back 11,000 years have been discovered within the park.
As of 2021, Badlands National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including 49 mammal and 209 bird species. The park is particularly known for its five large hoofed animal species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
For those planning an overnight visit, Badlands National Park offers two campgrounds: Cedar Pass and Sage Creek. The Cedar Pass Lodge provides accommodations and a restaurant, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay within the park.
The Ben Reifel Visitor Center, located in the northeastern part of the park, is a hub of information and activities. It offers a bookstore, special programs, and museum exhibits, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the park's history, geology, and biodiversity.
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Open 24/7. The park is open to visitors all year with the exception of weather closures.
Annual Entrance - Park | $55.00 |
Per person | $15.00 |
Private motorcycle | $25.00 |
Private vehicle | $30.00 |
No entrance pass required on these days:
Monday, January 15 — Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Saturday, April 20 — First Day of National Park Week
Wednesday, June 19 — Juneteenth
Sunday, August 4 — The Great American Outdoors Act
Saturday, September 28 — National Public Lands Day
Monday, November 11 — Veterans Day
25216 Ben Reifel Road, Interior
No exhibitions in Ben Reifel Visitor Center - Badlands National Park have been found.
Ben Reifel Visitor Center - Badlands National Park has 1 rating.
The Ben Reifel Visitor Center at Badlands National Park offers an informative and engaging experience for visitors. Located in Interior, South Dakota, this center serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the park's dramatic landscapes and rich paleontological history.
The center features well-designed exhibits that provide insights into the park's geology, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Visitors appreciate the educational displays, which include fossil exhibits and information about the area's native flora and fauna. The center's knowledgeable staff are often praised for their helpfulness in providing park information, trail recommendations, and answering questions.
One of the highlights is the park film shown in the auditorium, which gives visitors a comprehensive overview of the Badlands' formation and significance. The building itself is well-maintained and offers clean restrooms, a welcome amenity for travelers.
While most visitors find the center highly informative and well-organized, some mention that it could benefit from updated or expanded exhibits. Additionally, during peak seasons, the center can become crowded, which might slightly impact the visitor experience.
Overall, the Ben Reifel Visitor Center enhances the Badlands National Park experience by providing crucial information and context for the unique landscape that surrounds it. It's a valuable resource for both first-time visitors and returning park enthusiasts.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.