# Badlands National Park

> Badlands in South Dakota has two developed campgrounds. Sage Creek is primitive and excludes vehicles over 18 feet, and campfires are not allowed in either ca

Source: https://camping-spirit.com/destinations/badlands/

Badlands in South Dakota has two developed campgrounds. Sage Creek is primitive and excludes vehicles over 18 feet, and campfires are not allowed in either campground.

- **State:** South Dakota
- **Established:** 1978
- **Best season:** Apr–Oct
- **Road:** Badlands Loop Road (SD 240)

## Before you go

- Sage Creek is free, first-come, first-served and has no water. Motor homes, trailers and RVs over 18 feet (about 5.5 m) are prohibited.
- Cedar Pass Campground has 96 level sites near the visitor center, with electrical hookups at select sites.
- Backpackers may camp at least half a mile from roads and trails and out of sight of roads.
- Weather is variable. The park lists extremes from 116 °F to −40 °F, with hot and dry summers.

## Camping

Cedar Pass Campground lies near the visitor center and has a winter section that stays open all year. Sage Creek Primitive Campground is on the park's west side and has pit toilets but no water. Generators and ground fires are not permitted there. Stays are limited to 14 days at both campgrounds, and campfires are not allowed at either. Camp stoves and contained charcoal grills are permitted. Season dates and fees change, so check the park's page.

## Backcountry

Backpackers may camp anywhere at least half a mile from roads and trails and out of sight of roads. The Badlands Wilderness covers about a quarter of the park. This is walk-in camping only. Large vehicles cannot be used for it, and the camping page should be checked for current rules before you plan.

## FAQs

**Can I take my motor home to Sage Creek?**
Only if it is 18 feet (about 5.5 m) or shorter. Motor homes, pull-behind trailers and other RVs over 18 feet are prohibited there. Cedar Pass Campground is the option for larger vehicles.

**Can I have a campfire?**
No. Campfires are not permitted in either campground, and collecting wood is prohibited. Camp stoves and contained charcoal grills are allowed.

**Can I camp outside the campgrounds?**
On foot, yes. Backpackers may camp at least half a mile from roads and trails and out of sight of roads. This does not apply to vehicle camping.

## Places to see

- [Badlands National Park](https://camping-spirit.com/places/badlands/)
- [Wall Drug](https://camping-spirit.com/places/wall-drug/)
- [Custer State Park Wildlife Loop](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b19-custer-sp/)
- [Mount Rushmore National Memorial](https://camping-spirit.com/places/rushmore/)
- [Needles Highway and Needles Eye Tunnel](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b19-needles-eye/)
- [Wind Cave National Park](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b19-wind-cave/)
- [Sylvan Lake](https://camping-spirit.com/places/b19-sylvan-lake/)