2009-10 Vacation Guide


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2009-10 Winter Guide


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Buffalo Gap Activities

Rockhounding  
The Buffalo Gap National Grassland (BGNG) and surrounding area is a virtual paradise for those interested in rocks, minerals, gemstones and fossils. Rockhounding is allowed anywhere on the Grasslands, with some restrictions. Collecting on private land requires permission from the owner. Rock beds are scattered in eroded areas throughout BGNG and offer the rockhound many acres of collecting. The persistent rockhound can discover a wide spectrum of colorful and interesting specimens. Most sought-after is the brightly-patterned Fairburn Agate. It is the State Gem of South Dakota. Other rocks and minerals that can be found on the BGNG include Banded Jasper, Rose Quartz, Prairie Agate, Chalcedony, Bubble Gum Agate, Fairburn Agate, Puddingstone Conglomerate, Water Agate, Black Agate and Moss Agate.

Buffalo Gap National Grassland boasts some of the most spectacular geological formations in the country. In addition, they constitute one of the nation’s greatest storehouses for vertebrate fossils. A permit is required for the collection of vertebrate paleontological specimens, including their trace fossils (tracks) on any federal lands. These permits are issued only for scientific research and educational purposes. Collection of any objects for commercial purposes or trade or barter is prohibited. For more information call (308) 432-0300.

Wildlife Watching                
Over 100 species of animals can be found on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Nature has adapted these animals to life on the Grassland. Each animal has the right coloration and behavior patterns to survive in one or more of the habitats found here. Several species also rely on the abandoned structures from the Homestead Era that remain on the Grassland. The most endangered mammal in North America is thriving in the Conata Basin area of BGNG, the black-footed ferret. Other watchable wildlife include prairie dogs, mule and whitetail deer, pronghorn, prairie vole, snakes, coyotes, badgers, jackrabbits, gophers, lizards, porcupines, red fox and birds.

Hiking, Biking and Horseback Riding
There are numerous dirt two-track trails within the Grassland. You can also bike and hike cross-country. You can hike anywhere on the national grasslands. There is one developed trail near Wall, SD. To access this trail from, I-90 take Exit 116. Wooden 4x4 posts mark this 5 ½-mile loop trail. There is an extension of the trail to make it a 15-mile loop. The Badlands Wall formation is always in view of this trail.

There are no developed horse facilities on the National Grassland. The wide-open spaces are especially well suited for horseback travel. Please leave gates as you find them to assure that livestock grazing systems work as they are designed. Certified weed-free feed for recreational stock is required on the National Grassland.

ORV or ATV Riding
Currently, ORV or ATV riding use is allowed on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland with the exception of one area, Indian Creek. Indian Creek is located west of Scenic and east of the Cheyenne River. All ORVs must have a Forest Service approved spark arrester. Railroad Buttes is a popular ORV area located off of Hwy. 44, 20 miles southeast of Rapid City. Contact the National Grassland Visitor Center for more information (605) 279-2125.

Hunting and Fishing
All areas are open for public hunting under state rules and regulations. Shooting a firearm within 150 yards of a developed recreation site or across a forest road is prohibited. Big Game archery and firearm opportunities include whitetail and mule deer, and antelope. Varmint opportunities include coyote and prairie dogs. All hunters need to be certain of hunting regulations, hunting unit boundaries and public land ownership.

The stock ponds on Buffalo Gap National Grassland are great for all kinds of fishing preferences. There are a number of stock ponds near Wall. Keep in mind that due to drought the past several years, the fisheries are fair to poor.

Wildlife Photos

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