Badlands Wilderness, US Wilderness Area in Pennington County, South Dakota.
Badlands Wilderness is a protected natural area featuring deep canyons, exposed rock formations, and numerous hiking trails through prairie landscapes. The terrain is characterized by irregular rock structures and open grasslands that extend across vast distances.
Congress designated this area as an official Wilderness Area in 1976 to protect the natural landscape. This designation followed the Wilderness Act and recognized the need to preserve the original terrain for future generations.
The Lakota people named this region 'mako sica' because of its difficult terrain and harsh conditions. The lands were essential for hunting and gathering activities over many generations.
Visitors should bring plenty of water and navigation tools since trail markers are sparse throughout the area. Preparation and a good map are essential for exploring safely and finding your way.
The area contains extensive fossil beds where paleontologists have discovered numerous prehistoric remains. These specimens are preserved within the layered rock formations and provide insights into ancient life.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Wall Drug
19.6 km
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
18.6 km
Hotel Alex Johnson
75.3 km
South Dakota Air and Space Museum
66.7 km
Rapid City High School
75.2 km
The Journey Museum and Gardens
75 km
Rapid City Public Library
75.4 km
Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
74.5 km
Badlands Observatory
24.7 km
Prairie Homestead
35.9 km
O'Harra Stadium
73.2 km
Church of the Immaculate Conception
75 km
Pennington County Courthouse
74.9 km
Carnegie Public Library Building
75.3 km
Wasta Rest Stop Tipis
26.3 km
Hermosa Masonic Lodge
67.5 km
Prairie Edge Trading Company and Galleries
75.4 km
Mt. Moriah Masonic Lodge No. 155
67.5 km
Quinn Methodist Church
24.7 km
Rapid City Masonic Temple
75.4 km
Ben Reifel Visitor Center
34.3 km
Elks Theatre
75.3 km
Wasta Rest Stop Tip–Eastbound
26.3 km
Sage Creek Campground
8.2 km
Cedar Pass Campground
33.8 km
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site Visitor Center
36.1 km
Wasta Rest Stop Tipi–Westbound
26.4 km
Ancient Hunters Overlook
10.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes