Discover the Majestic Wind Cave National Park
Explore the natural wonders of Wind Cave National Park, a captivating destination with stunning caves and diverse wildlife in South Dakota.
Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota is a stunning natural wonder, renowned for its unique cave formations and diverse ecosystems. A paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor activities for all ages.
A brief summary to Wind Cave National Park
- South Dakota, US
- +1605-745-4600
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak summer months.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and explore the trails to see the park’s diverse ecosystems.
- Don’t miss the guided cave tours; be sure to book in advance to secure your spot.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing; you might spot bison and elk in their natural habitat.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly.
Getting There
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Car
From the central areas of Black Hills National Forest, such as Custer State Park or Hill City, head east on US-16. Follow US-16 for approximately 14 miles until you reach the junction with SD-87. Turn left onto SD-87 and continue for about 3 miles. Wind Cave National Park will be on your right. Look for the park entrance sign. Note that there is an entrance fee of $20 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in this area. However, you can take a bus from Rapid City to Custer. Once in Custer, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get to Wind Cave National Park, which is about 10 miles away. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for the rideshare service, depending on demand.
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Bicycle
For an adventurous route, you can bike from Custer to Wind Cave National Park. Take SD-87 from Custer, which is approximately a 10-mile ride. Be prepared for some elevation changes and traffic. Make sure to wear a helmet and have visibility gear, especially if you're riding in the early morning or late evening.
Discover more about Wind Cave National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
FlatIron Historic Sandstone Inn
15.4 km
Discover the unique blend of history and comfort at FlatIron Historic Sandstone Inn in Hot Springs, South Dakota, your gateway to the Black Hills.
Battle Mountain Sanitarium
15.4 km
Explore the rich history and serene landscapes at Battle Mountain Sanitarium in South Dakota's Black Hills, a unique destination for every traveler.
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
16.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Hazelrodt Picnic Area in Custer, SD, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Custer State Park Mt Coolidge
19.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Custer State Park Mt Coolidge, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in South Dakota.
Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower
19.4 km
Discover the awe-inspiring views of the Black Hills from Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Badger Hole Historical Site
20.6 km
Discover the poetic legacy of Badger Clark at the tranquil Badger Hole Historical Site in Custer, South Dakota, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Glen Erin School Historic Site
21.5 km
Explore the Glen Erin School Historic Site in Custer, South Dakota, a charming glimpse into the educational past surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
21.7 km
Discover the untamed beauty of Custer State Park with Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours, the ultimate adventure for wildlife lovers.
Custer State Park Visitor Center
21.9 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Custer State Park at the Visitor Center, your gateway to exploring South Dakota's wild landscapes.
Custer State Park Resort
21.9 km
Explore Custer State Park Resort – a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in South Dakota's breathtaking Black Hills.
Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark
23.1 km
Uncover the rich history and natural beauty of Gordon Stockade, a must-visit historical landmark and state park in Custer, South Dakota.
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
23.6 km
Experience the Ultimate Comfort at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast in Custer, SD – Your Gateway to the Scenic Black Hills and Outdoor Adventures.
Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
23.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Custer State Park, a must-visit destination in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
Big Rock Park
24.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Big Rock Park in Custer, South Dakota, where nature, adventure, and tranquility await every visitor.
Custer Lighted Sign
24.5 km
Discover the nostalgic charm of the Custer Lighted Sign, a historical landmark that beautifully captures the essence of Custer, South Dakota.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wind Cave Canyon
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wind Cave Canyon in Hot Springs, SD, a hiking paradise surrounded by unique geological wonders and abundant wildlife.
Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center
3.4 km
Explore the stunning Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center - your gateway to unique geological wonders and diverse wildlife in South Dakota's natural beauty.
Lookout Point Trail
3.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lookout Point Trail in Custer, South Dakota, a must-visit hiking destination for all nature lovers.
Exposing The Past
4.6 km
Experience the history and culture of Native Americans at the Crazy Horse Memorial, a breathtaking tribute in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Boland Ridge
5.3 km
Explore the breathtaking views and rich natural beauty of Boland Ridge, a premier hiking area in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
Cold Brook Canyon Trail
6.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cold Brook Canyon Trail in Hot Springs, SD, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Rankin Ridge Trail
6.6 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes of Rankin Ridge Trail, a must-visit hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Sanctuary Trail
7.9 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Sanctuary Trail, a serene hiking paradise nestled in the stunning landscapes of Custer, South Dakota.
Bison Center
10.3 km
Discover the Bison Center in Fairburn, SD, where immersive exhibits meet the breathtaking beauty of America's iconic bison in their natural habitat.
Wildlife Loop Road
11.9 km
Experience the breathtaking Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota, a scenic drive through Custer State Park showcasing stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Loop Rd
11.9 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Wildlife Station Visitor Center
12.3 km
Discover the beauty and wildlife of Custer State Park at the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, your gateway to nature's wonders in South Dakota.
Prairie Dog Town
12.6 km
Explore the lively ecosystem of Prairie Dog Town in Custer, SD, and enjoy a unique wildlife experience amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Bicycle Sculpture
12.8 km
Experience the whimsical Bicycle Sculpture in Pringle, SD—a unique artistic landmark perfect for memorable photos and outdoor fun.
Upper Chautauqua Park
14.8 km
Discover the serene charm of Upper Chautauqua Park in Hot Springs, South Dakota – a perfect family-friendly destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Essential places to dine
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
16.8 km
Experience the ultimate comfort food at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Hot Springs - where delicious fast food meets delightful ice cream treats.
Taco John's
16.8 km
Experience delicious Tex-Mex flavors at Taco John's in Hot Springs - perfect for breakfast or lunch on your travels.
Dockside Grill
21.1 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in Custer's scenic beauty at Dockside Grill – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and nature.
State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
21.9 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine in the heart of Custer State Park at the State Game Lodge Restaurant—where nature meets culinary delight.
Subway
24.9 km
Discover deliciously fresh sandwiches at Subway in Custer—your perfect pit stop during South Dakota adventures.
The Custer Beacon
25.0 km
Discover delicious dining at The Custer Beacon - where great food meets live music in scenic South Dakota.
The Custer Wolf - Food & Drink
25.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and vibrant bar culture at The Custer Wolf in South Dakota's scenic town of Custer.
Dakota Broasted, LLC
25.0 km
Experience mouthwatering broasted chicken and local flavors at Dakota Broasted in Custer, SD – a must-visit for food lovers!
The Hills Finest
25.0 km
Discover The Hills Finest: A wine bar and art café offering exquisite wines, delicious food, and vibrant live music in charming Custer.
Hot Dog Man
25.0 km
Experience gourmet hot dogs at Hot Dog Man in Custer - perfect for tourists seeking delicious bites amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Sage Creek Grille - Closed for the Season - Reopening Spring 2024
25.0 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, SD – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
25.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, South Dakota – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Maria's Mexican Restaurant
25.0 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Maria's Mexican Restaurant in Custer – where every meal is a festive celebration!
Baker's Bakery & Cafe
25.1 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Begging Burro Mexican Bistro
25.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Begging Burro Mexican Bistro in Custer - a perfect blend of flavor and culture awaits!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wanda's Finds
13.0 km
Explore a unique collection of antiques and vintage treasures at Wanda's Finds in Hot Springs, South Dakota, where history comes alive.
Buffalo Gap Trading Post
13.7 km
Discover local crafts and unique souvenirs at Buffalo Gap Trading Post, a charming variety store in the heart of South Dakota.
Chautauqua Artisans Market
15.5 km
Explore the Chautauqua Artisans Market in Hot Springs, SD for unique craftsmanship, local artistry, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Many Moons Trading
15.8 km
Explore Many Moons Trading, the ultimate consignment shop in Hot Springs, SD, filled with unique treasures and local charm.
Lucy and The Green Wolf
15.9 km
Explore Lucy and The Green Wolf, a charming gift shop in Hot Springs, SD, offering unique handmade crafts, organic goods, and delightful children's items.
Red Dirt & Pearls Boutique
15.9 km
Explore Red Dirt & Pearls Boutique in Hot Springs, SD for unique fashion and local artistry that embodies the spirit of South Dakota.
River Street Emporium
16.0 km
Explore the unique treasures of River Street Emporium, where local artistry meets heartfelt gifts in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Hot Springs Maker’s Market
16.0 km
Explore the Hot Springs Maker’s Market for unique gifts, local art, and delicious baked goods in the heart of South Dakota.
SucculentSD
16.0 km
Discover unique gifts and vibrant succulents at SucculentSD - a must-visit gift shop for nature lovers and tourists alike!
Blue Bell General Store
16.4 km
Explore the essence of South Dakota at Blue Bell General Store, where local charm meets adventure in Custer State Park.
Bomgaars
16.7 km
Explore Bomgaars in Hot Springs for a diverse selection of clothing, pet supplies, and outdoor gear, making your trip to South Dakota unforgettable.
Stone Décor & Supply (Rock Shop)
17.4 km
Explore the artistic treasures of Stone Décor & Supply, a unique shop in Hot Springs, SD, featuring stunning crystals and handcrafted furniture.
Legion Lake Convenience Store
21.1 km
Discover local goods and snacks at Legion Lake Convenience Store, your gateway to exploring the beautiful Black Hills and Custer State Park.
Coolidge General Store
21.9 km
Explore Coolidge General Store in Custer, SD, for unique local goods, souvenirs, and a delightful shopping experience in the heart of the Black Hills.
Needles View Emporium
23.5 km
Explore unique clothing, antiques, and costume jewelry at Needles View Emporium in Custer, South Dakota, a treasure trove for every tourist.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hitchrail Bar & Restaurant
12.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine in a cozy atmosphere at The Hitchrail Bar & Restaurant in Pringle, South Dakota.
LAST CHANCE SALOON
13.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Last Chance Saloon in Buffalo Gap, a historic bar offering local brews and live music in a charming Wild West setting.
Buffalo Steakhouse
15.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Buffalo Steakhouse, a cozy steakhouse in Hot Springs, SD, offering mouthwatering meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Smokehouse Sports Bar & Grill
15.4 km
Experience a unique blend of barbecue and Mexican fusion at Smokehouse Sports Bar & Grill in Hot Springs, SD, where flavor meets fun.
Smokin Mexican
15.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Smokin Mexican in Hot Springs, South Dakota, perfect for every food lover.
Springs Lodge & Cafe (Cafe)
15.6 km
Experience the charm of Springs Lodge & Cafe, where delicious breakfasts and freshly brewed coffee await in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Mornin' Sunshine Coffee House & Catering
15.7 km
Discover the charm of Mornin' Sunshine Coffee House & Catering, where delightful coffee and homemade treats await in Hot Springs, SD.
“The Merc” Southern Hills Mercantile & Taproom
15.7 km
Experience the best of local flavors at The Merc, a gastropub and bar offering a diverse menu and extensive craft beer selection in Hot Springs, SD.
Art House Black Hills
15.7 km
Explore the creative heart of Hot Springs at Art House Black Hills, a unique bar and art gallery blending local culture with vibrant social experiences.
309 General Restaurant & Bar
15.8 km
Experience the warm hospitality and delicious cuisine at 309 General Restaurant & Bar in Hot Springs, South Dakota, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Open air seating
15.8 km
Enjoy delightful outdoor dining with breathtaking views at this charming restaurant in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Two Cows Creamery and Bistro
15.8 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Two Cows Creamery and Bistro in Hot Springs, SD – a delightful farm-to-table dining destination.
Silk Road Experience Restaurant
15.9 km
Discover the authentic tastes of Pakistan at Silk Road Experience Restaurant in Hot Springs, SD, where every dish tells a story.
Wandering Bison Coffee
15.9 km
Discover the charm of Wandering Bison Coffee, a cozy cafe in Hot Springs, SD, offering delicious coffee, pastries, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
the kitchen ink
15.9 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in the heart of Hot Springs, South Dakota, at The Kitchen Ink, where every meal feels like home.
