• Winter in the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota

    The Black Hills & Badlands

The Black Hills & Badlands of South Dakota

From the four faces carved at Mount Rushmore National Memorial to the otherworldly buttes of Badlands National Park — the Black Hills and Badlands are home to truly monumental places.

Explore over 5 million acres of forest and mountain land teeming with natural beauty, clear mountain lakes, and abundant opportunities for adventure.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial in Winter

Vacation Guide

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Endless possibilities for your next adventure.

Experience the Black Hills

Explore our stories and itineraries to discover the best places to stay, play, and explore year-round, with tips tailored to seasons and your interests. and activities!

  • There's no place like the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota for some good old-fashioned horseback camping. With miles of trails just waiting for you and your horse, you'll find plenty of welcoming spots to set up camp. Start your adventure in the Badlands and experience life like a true cowboy on the trails.

    Saddle Up for Adventure in the Black Hills
  • Picture yourself as a cowboy in the heart of the Black Hills of Wyoming, where the landscape whispers stories of the old stagecoach days. This isn't your usual getaway—it's a full-on plunge into the cowboy lifestyle. You can hang your hat at a real stage stop, offering a peek into a bygone era.

    Belle Fourche
  • Camping in the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota is a treat. Ever picture yourself surrounded by stunning landscapes? You're in the right place to experience nature's splendor first-hand. With various options, from rugged to glam, there's a perfect campsite for everyone here.

    Camping 101 to 110 in the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota
  • Get your motor running. It's almost time for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (August 1-10, 2025) and it’s sure to be a good time for all in the motorcycle Mecca of the West.

    Sturgis

World-class Events

Experience world-class events that showcase the very best of the area, from vibrant festivals to unforgettable entertainment, all waiting for you here!

  • 1880 Train Spiked

    Dec

    22

    Celebrate the Holidays with the Holiday Express Spiked!

    Hill City
    Attractions & Family Entertainment
  • Storybook Islands Christmas

    Dec

    22

    Christmas Nights of Light at Storybook Island

    Rapid City
    Attractions & Family Entertainment
  • 1880 Train Santa

    Dec

    23

    Create Holiday Magic

    Hill City
    Attractions & Family Entertainment
  • 1880 Train Spiked

    Dec

    23

    Celebrate the Holidays with the Holiday Express Spiked!

    Hill City
    Attractions & Family Entertainment

Visit the Black Hill's Best

Preview the area's best attractions, dining, lodging, and more to your itinerary—everything you need to make your visit unforgettable!

Share Your Monumental Moments

Capture your adventure and share your Monumental Moments—submit your trip photos for a chance to win monthly prizes, voted on by fellow travelers like you!

  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial
    Joe Gricar
    29
    30 votes with an average rating of 1.
  • Bear Butte State Park
    Sierra Hopp
    37
    37 votes with an average rating of 1.
  • Roughlock Falls State Recreation Area
    Becky Severn
    10
    10 votes with an average rating of 1.

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