Badlands National Park's backcountry camping option puts hikers directly into the park's raw landscape, with no facilities and no fee. Access is hike-in only, and pets are not permitted. A creek runs near the camping area. No amenities exist here. Campers who want a developed alternative can find tent camping sites near Badlands National Park across a range of setups. This spot makes sense for self-sufficient backpackers comfortable with carrying everything in and out.
Description
Permits are not currently required for overnight stays in the Badlands backcountry. Before setting out on an overnight trip contact a staff member at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center or Pinnacles Entrance Station for more information. Backcountry registers are located at the Medicine/Castle Trail Loop, Saddle Pass Trailhead, Conata Picnic Area, Sage Creek Basin Overlook, and the Sage Creek Campground.
Campfires are not allowed under any circumstances. Use a backpacking stove.
Pets are not permitted on trails, in backcountry, or wilderness areas.
The location of your campsite must be at least 0.5 miles from a road or trail and must not be visible from a roadway.
There is little to no water available in the backcountry. The small amounts of water found are not drinkable or filterable due to the high sediment content. Always carry at least one gallon of water per person per day.
All refuse must be carried out. Use the cat hole method to dispose of human waste. Dig a small hole 6 to 8 inches deep and a minimum of 200 feet from any water source. Since animals will often dig up cat holes and scatter the toilet paper, it is preferred that you pack out all toilet paper. If you must bury toilet paper, use a minimal amount and bury with at least 6 inches of soil.
Strain food particles from wastewater, pack out food scraps, and scatter remaining water more than 200 feet from any stream channel.
Map & DirectionsBackcountry Camping is located in South Dakota near Badlands National Park
Public CampgroundCoordinates
43.8569958665164 N
102.33981268257351 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
Features
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Backcountry Camping — Badlands National Park needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 19 min from Rapid City, SD
- 4 hrs 53 min from Casper, WY
- 4 hrs 55 min from Bismarck, ND
- 5 hrs 15 min from Cheyenne, WY
