Badlands National Park is considered one of the world’s richest mammal fossil beds. While there have not been any dinosaur fossils found here, hundreds of mammal fossils have been found. These are predecessors of the modern day rhinoceros, horse, pig and cat. Fossils from early birds, reptiles, and invertebrates have also been found. Long before the park can into existence, anyone could conduct research in the park and remove fossils. Records indicate that fossils have been excavated from around the area for over 150 years.

The park is co-managed with the help of the Oglala Lakota Nation and the South Unit contains many sites sacred to the Oglala Lakota and other Native American people. Hiking is available in the park with two trails, the Window Trail and the Door Trail are wheelchair accessible. Also wheelchair accessible are both visitor centers, two campground sites at Cedar Pass Campground, the Cedar Pass Lodge dining room and gift shop and ranger programs. The visually and hearing impaired can enjoy some special exhibits as well as some ranger programs at the visitor centers.

With the average annual precipitation at 16 inches, lack of water is a concern in the park. Preparation is necessary as you should carry and drink one gallon of water a day. The rock can be unstable so it necessary to be very careful. Some of the animals you can see while wildlife viewing are coyote, American Bison, Prairie Rattlesnake, Porcupine, Blacktailed Prairie Dog, Black-footed Ferret, Swift Fox, Bighorn Sheep, Bobcat and the Black-billed Magpie. The Badlands National Park has the most successful reintroduction for the black-footed ferret. http://www.nps.gov/badl/upload/BADL%20Planner%202010.pdf

The following attractions and activities are provided at Badlands National Park:

Fossil Viewing - This is considered one of the world’s richest mammal fossil beds.

Ranger-guided programs - Walks, talks, children activities, and audiovisual programs for those with varying interests and abilities are available.

' Camping' - The Cedar Pass Campground is first come, first served. There are no showers or electrical/water hookups. Cold running water, flush toilets, dump station and covered picnic tables are available. $14 a night.

Sage Creek Campground - This campground is a first come, first served, primitive campground. It has pit toilets and covered picnic tables but no water is available on-site. A part of the campground designated horse use. Camping at this campground is free. Phone: (605) 433-5361

Ben Reifel Visitor Center Information:

Spring hours are: April 18 - May 29: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Summer hours are: May 30 - September 1: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Fall hours are: September 12 - October 30: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Winter hours are: October 31 - April 2011: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m

Visitor Center shows a film entitled, "Land of Stone and Light" and also includes exhibits, Tipi Village and restrooms.

White River Visitor Center - operated by the Oglala Sioux Parks and Recreation Authority and staffed by Tribal members. Information desk, exhibits, restrooms, picnic tables,Talks and water.

Hiking - trails range from very easy to strenuous. http://www.nps.gov/badl/upload/BADL%20Planner%202010.pdf

The Badlands National park was given it’s name by the Sioux Indians. The Sioux called it "Mako Sica", Mako meaning land and sica, (bad). The term badlands stuck and is generally referring to an area that is hard to travel because of lack of water and rough ground.

The Badlands was originally made a National Monument in 1929 but was designated a National Park in 1978, when it became Badland National Park. http://www.nps.gov/badl/faqs.htm