Experience the Black Hills & Badlands

From the four faces carved high on Mount Rushmore and the Cathedral Spires of Custer State Park to the wondrous caverns of Wind Cave, from the otherworldly Badlands in the east to Devils Tower in the west – the Black Hills are home to many truly monumental places.

But that’s only some of what you’ll find here. With over five million acres of forest and mountain lands – an oasis in a sea of prairie – in the Black Hills you’ll also find rich western history, abundant natural beauty and meaningful adventure.

Discover

The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs

This National Natural Landmark is an internationally renowned indoor working paleontological site/museum. More than 60 Columbian & woolly mammoths have been unearthed, as well as over 80 other species of associated Ice Age fauna. Hands-on activities for children, an educational experience for the entire family. Groups welcome. AAA Gem designation.

Crazy Horse Memorial

World's largest mountain carving in progress, located minutes from Mount Rushmore on Hwy 16/385. Witness work on the Mountain, enjoy American Indian museums, art galleries, the sculptor's studio-home, antiques, American Indian artists and performers. Nightly laser show in season,
restaurant and gift shop. Open year-round.

Your Doorway to Endless Adventure: Wall, South Dakota

Just east of the Black Hills on the edge of Badlands National Park exists a small, but world-famous oasis with warm Western flair and all the free ice water you can drink.

Inspire

June 11, 2020

Fast or Slow, High or Low: Fun From All Angles at Rushmore Tramway Adventures

The small town of Keystone, South Dakota, is no stranger to iconic attractions and monumental fun.

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July 13, 2020

Top 10 Breathtaking Feats of Architecture and Design in the Black Hills

The Black Hills and Badlands offers a unique palette of natural building materials and historic context for impressive built environments—often molded into the surrounding landscape of mountains, granite and ponderosa pine.

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How to Spend 3 Absolutely Amazing Days in the Wall Badlands Area | Itinerary

Set among the picturesque backdrop of expansive plains and the breathtaking views of the Badlands, Wall offers all the expected and plenty of the unexpec

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January 31, 2020

Top 7 Wildlife Experiences Perfect for Young Families in Custer State Park

Inspire your children to become life-long lovers of the natural world with thrilling wildlife adventures in Custer State Park.

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January 26, 2019

Top 10 Most Essential Things to Do on Your (first) Visit to Custer State Park

Visiting Custer State Park on your Black Hills vacation is a must. The park is one of the few truly wild places that remain in this country. Towering pines, gentle creeks and massive granite outcroppings sprawl throughout the park’s 71,000 acres, captivating all who enter.

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May 15, 2020

Top Spots to Find Local Black Hills Art in Downtown Rapid City

The art of Downtown Rapid City undeniably matches the spirit of the region; it’s beautiful and timeless. The area’s art showcases a warm, welcoming community with a strong love for the natural world that surrounds it.

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The Kid Tested, Mother Approved Itinerary – What to See and Do with Kids in the Black Hills

With its mix of authentically awe-inspiring landscapes and concentration of parks and hundreds – literally hundreds – of attractions, the Black Hills has served as an unforgettable vacation destina

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Ten Favorite Free Things to Do in the Black Hills (or very nearly free anyways)

Traveling with families, some sort of budget is ever present, it has to be with so many mouths to feed and potential gift store purchases because its one for all, whatever that one may be.

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