Explore the Wonders of the Badlands at Ben Reifel Visitor Center
Discover the Badlands' beauty and history at Ben Reifel Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure in South Dakota's stunning landscapes.
The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Badlands National Park. Offering informative exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and breathtaking views, this center is a must-visit for every tourist seeking to experience the natural beauty and unique geology of South Dakota.
A brief summary to Ben Reifel Visitor Center
- 25216 SD-240, Interior, South Dakota, 57750, US
- +1605-433-5361
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best parking spots.
- Check the weather forecast before you visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the Badlands.
- Don't forget your camera; the vistas are breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- Consider joining a ranger-led program for a deeper understanding of the park.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are already in Badlands National Park, you can reach the Ben Reifel Visitor Center by following SD-240. From the Badlands Loop Road, take the exit for SD-240, and head east. Continue on SD-240 for approximately 10 miles. The visitor center will be on your left at the address 25216 SD-240, Interior, SD 57750. There is no entrance fee for the visitor center itself, but you might need to pay an entrance fee to the park if you haven't already.
-
Public Transportation
Currently, there are limited public transportation options directly within Badlands National Park. If you're relying on public transport, your best option is to take a bus or shuttle service to Rapid City, South Dakota, and then rent a car to drive to the park. From Rapid City, head east on I-90, take exit 131 for SD-34, and follow the signs to Badlands National Park. Once in the park, follow the directions provided for cars to reach the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
Discover more about Ben Reifel Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Badlands Natural History Association
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking geology and diverse wildlife of South Dakota at the Badlands Natural History Association, your gateway to exploring nature's wonders.
Cedar Pass Campground
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cedar Pass Campground in Badlands National Park, where nature meets adventure in South Dakota.
Badlands / White River KOA Holiday
6.4 km
Discover the beauty of South Dakota at Badlands/White River KOA Holiday, a perfect camping retreat filled with adventure and natural wonders.
Prairie Homestead
6.5 km
Discover Prairie Homestead: A captivating visitor center and historical site showcasing the rich heritage of early American homesteading amid beautiful prairie landscapes.
Oglala Lakota Living History Village
9.6 km
Explore the vibrant culture and history of the Lakota people at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village in South Dakota.
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
11.1 km
Explore the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site and uncover the intriguing stories of America's Cold War history in South Dakota's expansive landscapes.
Badlands National Park Sign
28.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Badlands National Park in South Dakota, a natural wonder waiting to be discovered.
Badlands Wilderness Overlook
29.8 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes of Badlands Wilderness Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in South Dakota's stunning Badlands National Park.
Badlands National Park
34.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and unique geological formations of Badlands National Park in South Dakota, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Roberts Prairie Dog Town
34.1 km
Explore Roberts Prairie Dog Town, a unique wildlife haven in South Dakota, where playful prairie dogs and breathtaking landscapes await your visit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cedar Pass Lodge
0.3 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park at Cedar Pass Lodge, your perfect retreat for adventure and relaxation in South Dakota.
Cliff Shelf Nature Trailhead
0.9 km
Discover the stunning vistas and unique wildlife at Cliff Shelf Nature Trailhead in Badlands National Park, South Dakota, a perfect spot for hiking and nature lovers.
Door Trailhead
2.0 km
Explore the Door Trailhead in South Dakota for breathtaking views, unique geology, and an unforgettable hiking adventure in the Badlands.
Saddle Pass Trailhead
2.8 km
Explore Saddle Pass Trailhead for breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences in South Dakota's stunning Badlands National Park.
Big Badlands Overlook
4.2 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Big Badlands Overlook, a scenic gem in South Dakota that showcases nature's artistry and diverse wildlife.
Fossil Exhibit Trail
5.7 km
Explore ancient fossils and stunning landscapes at the Fossil Exhibit Trail in Badlands National Park, South Dakota – a must-visit for nature and history enthusiasts.
White River Valley Overlook
8.6 km
Experience stunning landscapes and breathtaking vistas at the White River Valley Overlook in South Dakota's Badlands National Park.
Giant Prairie Dog Statue
8.7 km
Discover the Giant Prairie Dog Statue in Philip, South Dakota: a whimsical sculpture and local landmark celebrating the charm of the Great Plains.
Bigfoot Pass Overlook
9.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views and vibrant landscapes of Bigfoot Pass Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Panorama Point
10.9 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Panorama Point in South Dakota, where breathtaking landscapes and unique geological features await every traveler.
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site Visitor Center
11.1 km
Explore the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site Visitor Center in South Dakota and uncover the secrets of Cold War history and missile defense systems.
Prairie Wind Overlook
12.7 km
Explore the majestic views at Prairie Wind Overlook, a scenic gem in South Dakota's Badlands, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Delta-01 Launch Control Facility
14.4 km
Explore the Delta-01 Launch Control Facility in Wall, South Dakota - a crucial site of Cold War history and a remarkable glimpse into America's defense legacy.
Hurley Butte Ranch
15.6 km
Discover the thrill of horseback riding in the stunning landscapes of the Black Hills at Hurley Butte Ranch, a unique adventure for all ages.
Burns Basin Overlook
16.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and stunning landscapes at Burns Basin Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in South Dakota's Badlands.
Essential places to dine
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cowboy Corner
4.0 km
Experience the charm of Cowboy Corner, South Dakota's favorite convenience store, offering local goods, snacks, and friendly service for every traveler.
Native West Trading Co.
4.5 km
Experience authentic Native American craftsmanship at Native West Trading Co., a hidden gem in South Dakota offering unique handmade goods.
Badlands Ranch Store
8.7 km
Explore the Badlands Ranch Store: Your one-stop destination for unique local goods and authentic souvenirs in South Dakota's stunning Badlands.
Badlands Trading Post
10.0 km
Explore Badlands Trading Post for unique gifts, local flavors, and essential travel needs in South Dakota's stunning Badlands region.
Out West Quilts and Fabric LLC
35.9 km
Explore the colorful world of quilting at Out West Quilts and Fabric in Wall, SD, where creativity meets tradition in every stitch.
Nanna's Mercantile
36.0 km
Explore Nanna's Mercantile in Wall, SD for unique antiques, second-hand treasures, and delightful local snacks in a charming thrift store setting.
Dahl Chainsaw Art - Wall Chainsaw Co.
36.0 km
Discover the artistic wonder of Dahl Chainsaw Art in Wall, SD, where unique chainsaw sculptures create unforgettable memories.
Buffalo Gift Shop
36.2 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of the American West at Buffalo Gift Shop in Wall, South Dakota.
Badland Outpost
36.2 km
Explore Badland Outpost in Wall, SD, where unique souvenirs and local crafts await every traveler seeking a memorable shopping experience.
Wall Drug Backyard
36.2 km
Discover the whimsical allure of Wall Drug Backyard, where unique shops meet the charm of the Wild West in South Dakota.
Wall Discount Outlet
36.2 km
Explore unbeatable deals and unique finds at Wall Discount Outlet in Wall, South Dakota, the ultimate shopping destination for savvy travelers.
Jackalopes Corner
36.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Jackalopes Corner, the charming gift shop in Wall, South Dakota.
Wall Drug Store
36.2 km
Discover Wall Drug Store, an iconic South Dakota landmark offering unique souvenirs, art, and delicious food in a charming Old West setting.
Dakota Sky Stone
36.3 km
Experience the allure of handcrafted jewelry at Dakota Sky Stone in Wall, South Dakota, where every piece tells a story of local artistry.
Badlands and Company
36.3 km
Explore Badlands and Company, your ultimate gift shop in Wall, South Dakota, featuring unique souvenirs and local treasures from the breathtaking Badlands region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wagon Wheel Bar
4.3 km
Discover Wagon Wheel Bar in Interior, SD - a local gem offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Two Bit Saloon & Steakhouse
30.2 km
Experience the authentic flavors of the Wild West at Two Bit Saloon & Steakhouse, where hearty meals and warm hospitality await.
Badlands Distillery LLC
35.0 km
Discover the art of distillation at Badlands Distillery, where craft spirits and local flavors come together in Kadoka, South Dakota.
Econo Lodge
35.8 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Econo Lodge in Wall, South Dakota—your perfect starting point for exploring the Badlands and beyond.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
35.9 km
Discover delicious fast food and irresistible ice cream treats at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Wall, South Dakota – a haven for hungry travelers.
Sage Creek Wilderness Area
35.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife at Sage Creek Wilderness Area, a natural sanctuary in South Dakota.
Butts and racks bbq
35.9 km
Experience the best barbecue in Wall, South Dakota at Butts and Racks BBQ, where smoky flavors and welcoming ambiance meet.
Wall Stompin' Grounds Coffee House
35.9 km
Discover the cozy charm of Wall Stompin' Grounds Coffee House in Wall, South Dakota, where exceptional brews meet small-town hospitality.
Wakin' Bacon
36.0 km
Discover the unique flavors of breakfast and lunch at Wakin' Bacon, the top spot in Wall, South Dakota, for a delightful dining experience.
Red Rock
36.1 km
Discover the flavors of Wall, South Dakota at Red Rock, a beloved restaurant and café offering local cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
Sunshine Inn
36.1 km
Experience comfort and hospitality at Sunshine Inn, your ideal base for exploring the stunning Badlands of South Dakota.
Salty Steer
36.1 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Salty Steer, where every meal is a taste of the Wild West in Wall, South Dakota.
Krispy Krunchy Chicken
36.1 km
Discover the deliciousness of Krispy Krunchy Chicken in Wall, SD, where every bite is a crispy delight at an unbeatable price.
Wall Cafe
36.2 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Wall Cafe, a cozy restaurant in Wall, South Dakota, perfect for travelers exploring the Badlands.
Badlands Saloon & Grille
36.3 km
Experience authentic American dining at Badlands Saloon & Grille, featuring burgers, steaks, and local flavors in the heart of South Dakota.