Badlands National Park

Welcome to South Dakota’s beautiful Badlands National Park, home of one of the world’s richest fossil beds.

Park History: The unique geology of Badlands National Park dates back to nearly 70 million years ago, back when dinosaurs were still living and a large sea covered what are today’s great plains. As the sea began to recede a lot of deposition of sediment began that continued for a very long time .Erosion of the park slowly continues today and one day these unique landscapes will be completely washed to the sea, thus the visitor must come out and see them while they are still in existence.

Wildlife: Badlands National Park not only provides us with a fossil record of past animals, but it also helps protect the home of many animals that are still living. These include bison, white tailed deer, mule deer, prairie dogs, coyotes, badgers, bobcats, and many others. Many of these species have been able to make a comeback due to the park’s protection of their habitat. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors Badlands National Park boasts hiking trails, dozens of campsites, beautiful scenery, and much more. Come on out and have a blast!