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Badlands National Park Campgrounds
Sponsors
Badlands National Park
25216 Ben Reifel Rd. P.O. Box 6
Interior SD 57750, (605) 433-5361
Park Map
Special Topics: Fossils/Dinosaurs · Wildflowers ·
Recreation Activities: Auto Touring · Biking · Camping · Educational
Programs · Hiking · Horseback Riding · Wilderness Area · Wildlife Viewing
Camping Areas
Cedar Pass Campground
Open All Year
Details
Cedar Pass Campground is $10.00 per night with a 14 night limit. The campground is operated by the National Park Service on a first-come, first-served basis and a campground host is on-site during the summer months. Reservations are required for group campsites ONLY, and can be made by calling (605) 433-5361. The fee is $2.50 per person, minimum 10 people.
Sage Creek Campground
Open All Year
Details
Sage Creek Campground is a free, primitive facility with vault toilets and no water. The campground is operated by the National Park Service on a first-come, first-served basis.
Lodging Options
Cedar Pass Lodge
Open
Seasonally
Reservations
http://foreverlodging.com/request.cfm?PropertyKey=67
Phone
Call (605) 433 - 5460
Details
Located in the park at Cedar Pass on the east side of Hwy 377, just south of the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Access to nightly ranger programs within a short walking distance. Accomodations include cabins and a cottage with rates based on occupancy. The lodge also offers a restaurant and gift shop.
Additional Information
Backpackers may camp anywhere in the park that is at least one-half mile from any road or trail and not visible from park roads. Because only the Castle Trail strays far from the main road, most backpackers set out cross country on routes of their own. When doing so, topographic maps are strongly recommended, if not essential. In the North Unit, the 64,250 acre Sage Creek Wilderness is ideal for backpackers. Leave your car at the primitive campground, and follow Sage Creek into the wilderness.
What are the best times to experience the Badlands backcountry? Perhaps spring and fall, when days are pleasant and nights are cool. The months of April and May are often rainy, although storms are possible year round, so always carry rain gear and extra clothing. Fall is generally cool and clear, but don't be caught unprepared for an early blizzard.
All water found in the backcountry is naturally contaminated with dissolved minerals and very fine sediment. Boiling water, treating it with chemicals, or using filters does not make it fit to drink. Consequently, assume that no water in the Badlands is potable; an adequate supply must be packed in. Carry at least a gallon per person per day in the summer.
The park has no formal system of backcountry permits or reservations, but we urge all backpackers to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Rangers on duty can help you plan an enjoyable and successful trip, offering assistance with directions, safety tips, maps, and information sheets.
Because few people use the Badlands backcountry, help may not be close at hand for those who experience problems. Let friends or relatives know when you depart and when you expect to return. Those who travel with a cellular phone will find it difficult if not impossible to get a phone connection out of most of Badlands' backcountry.
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