Camping near Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park has some of the most rugged landscapes and good wildlife viewing in South Dakota. Sage Creek Campground inside the park is basic - you won't find running water, but there are vault toilets and picnic tables available. The spot gives you a back-to-basics camping experience right in the middle of the Badlands terrain. Cedar Pass Campground is a bit more developed with electric hookups at some sites, which isn't common in most national parks. They run night sky programs at the amphitheater there too. If you want to camp with fewer neighbors, Buffalo Gap National Grassland has open camping with clear views of the Badlands formations. The area gives you plenty of space to yourself. When camping near the Badlands, you need to follow rules like the 14-day maximum stay and properly dealing with your trash. Fire bans happen regularly, so check what's allowed before you go. You'll likely see bison, bighorn sheep and lots of prairie dogs while you're in the area. Most campers find spring and fall most comfortable with better temperatures and smaller crowds than summer. Summer days often hit above 90 degrees, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. Winter camping works if you bring the right cold-weather gear. The Badlands camping experience is pretty different from most other parks, regardless of which spot you choose.
