which wind cave tour is best

Wind Cave National Park: The Complete Guide

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Best hikes and trails, where to camp, where to stay nearby, how to get there, accessibility, tips for your visit, wind cave national park.

Designated as a national park in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Wind Cave National Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota is the world’s largest and foremost example of a box work cave containing honeycomb-like calcite formations in the cave. Wind Cave has 95 percent of the world’s discovered boxwork formations. More than 150 miles of cave passages have been mapped in Wind Cave National Park, although it is assumed to be even larger. It is currently the sixth-longest-mapped cave in the world and the third-longest in the U.S.

The cave, sacred to the Lakota tribe of Native Americans, is called Wind Cave because of the wind that naturally blows out of the natural entrance to the cave, which occurs when the barometric pressure inside the cave exceeds the air pressure outside. In Lakota, it’s called Maka Oniye, meaning “breathing earth.” Lakota’s oral tradition tells the story of humankind first emerging from the natural entrance to Wind Cave after living below the earth to live on the surface. You can discover the entire Emergence Story here .

To enter the cave, you must be on a ranger-led tour, reserved in person at the Visitor’s Center on the day of the tour.

Above the cave is more than 28,000 acres of prairie and pine forest with more than 30 miles of hiking trails. There are also several driving routes. You can spot various wildlife species inside the park, including bison, elk, cougars, pronghorn antelopes, ferrets, prairie dogs, bobcats, and rattlesnakes.

Touring the cave and exploring the surrounding prairie and forest are the main draws to Wind Cave National Park, which is open throughout the year. In warmer weather, hiking is very popular on the trails, which range in length and difficulty, as is getting on a ranger-led cave tour. However, there are often long waits during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, so arrive as early as possible. There are still cave tours in the winter, although there are fewer tours per day. The cave is a constant 54 degrees Fahrenheit, so it can be a great place to warm up. Visitors can also go snow-shoeing on the trails and see plenty of wildlife in winter.

Getty Images/Mark Newman

Wildlife watching for bison herds and seeing prairie dogs in their prairie dog towns is also popular. In September and October, you can listen to bugling elk when male elk try to attract a mate by emitting a haunting bugle sound.

Back-country camping without reservations is allowed at Wind Cave, and there are numerous picnic tables and grassy areas to gather. Visitors can also drive the self-guided 20-mile geology route with an audio tour, which shares the geologic history of Wind Cave National Park. Road biking on established paths and horseback riding are also allowed inside the park but note that there are no facilities to rent equipment or horses.

Wind Cave National Park has more than 30 miles of hiking trails  with varying difficulty levels. Most of the trails are easy or moderate and can be completed by adults and kids, although you should expect some steep climbs on specific trails. Wind Cave is also an open hike park, and visitors are welcome to hike off marked trails. If you decide to hike away from established trails, bring plenty of water and a map, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Wherever you hike, wear sturdy shoes, apply sunscreen, carry water, and wear long sleeves and long pants to avoid ticks and poison ivy when hiking.

Pets are allowed on two trails near the Visitor’s Center (Prairie Vista Trail and Elk Mountain Campground Trail), each about a mile long.

• Elk Mountain: An easy loop trail that measures 1.2 miles and winds around the Elk Mountain Campground and the surrounding prairie grasslands. The trailhead starts at the Visitor’s Center.
• Cold Brook Canyon: A 1.4-mile one-way moderate trail with an initial descent that drops into the canyon. Visitors will hike through a ponderosa forest, open prairie, and a prairie dog town where prairie dogs, falcons, and other raptors nesting along the cliffs can be seen. The trailhead is along Route 385, about 1 mile south of the Visitor’s Center.
• Rankin Ridge: To find this trail, follow Highway 87 toward Custer State Park, and look for signage leading toward Rankin Ridge Nature Trail. It’s at the highest point in the park and affords spectacular views, yet it’s an easy 1-mile loop.
• Wind Cave Canyon: Wind Cave Canyon trail is a former road that follows Wind Cave Canyon to the park boundary for 1.8 miles. The limestone cliffs provide nesting areas for cliff swallows, canyon wrens, and great horned owls.
• Sanctuary: The 3.6-mile Sanctuary trail is rated difficult. It follows a rolling prairie and crosses a large prairie dog town. The trail ends where it meets the Highland Creek Trail, the longest trail in the park.
• Highland Creek: To reach Highland Creek, hike 1 mile down the Wind Cave Canyon trail or start from the northern trailhead on NPS 5. The trail is 8.6 miles one way and is the most diverse trail in Wind Cave. The hike traverses prairies, ponderosa forests, and riparian habitats along Highland and Beaver Creeks and the Wind Cave Canyon.
• Boland Ridge: Boland Ridge is a strenuous 2.6-mile hike with panoramic views of the Black Hills to the west and the Great Plains to the east. Look out for elk in the morning and evening.
• Lookout Point: A moderate 2.2-mile hike, Lookout Point follows the rolling hills of the prairie and descends to Beaver Creek. Views of the American Elk Prescribed Fire can be seen on a side trip up to Lookout Point. Turn this hike into a 4.5-mile loop by combining it with part of the Highland Creek and Centennial trails.

Wind Cave National Park has one campground and allows backcountry camping in a specific area.

• Elk Mountain Campground : This is a year-round 62-site campground that operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Two sites are handicap-accessible. Flush toilets and drinking water are available from late spring through early fall, and vault toilets are available year-round. Firewood is for sale year-round. During summer, ranger programs are offered nightly in the amphitheater.
• Backcountry camping : Backcountry camping is allowed in the northwest area of the park with a free permit. Free permits are issued at the Visitor’s Center and come with instructions about backcountry camping in the park. The permit area includes the part of the park that is north of Beaver Creek, east of Hwy 87, south of NPS 5, and west of Highland Creek Trail.
• Custer State Park : There are numerous campgrounds in nearby Custer State Park , which borders Wind Cave National Park to the north.

Aside from camping, there is no lodging inside the park (and no gasoline, grocery, or restaurant services). The nearby towns of Hot Springs (15 minutes south) and Custer (25 minutes north) offer accommodation options from cabins to Airbnb to hotels. Here are some of the best local hotels and places to stay:

• Black Hills Bungalows : If you want to stay in nature, these one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom cabins in Custer, just outside the park, are surrounded by it. Wildlife viewings are common, and there is a pond behind the cabins for fishing. All cabins have living areas, kitchens, a deck, and a sleeper sofa for extra guests.
• State Game Lodge : Located inside nearby Custer State Park, this historic stone and wood lodge was built in 1920 and served as President Calvin Coolidge’s “summer White House” in 1927. There are various accommodation options, including historic rooms in the main lodge, a wing of hotel rooms attached to the main lodge that were renovated in 2016, modern hotel rooms at  Creekside Lodge , and cabins in the valley. There’s also a full-service restaurant and general store. Keep your eyes peeled for buffalo during your stay.
• Historic Log Cabins : If you’re looking for an authentic log cabin experience, these classic cabins dating back to the 1920s in Hot Springs are just the ticket. Choose from 12 individually designed rustic cabins, some with kitchenettes and gas grills on the deck. There is also free WiFi, continental breakfast (during the summer season), and access to a playground, fire pit, and picnic tables.
• Rocket Motel : This retro motel dating back to 1950 is in downtown Custer. Rooms range from single beds in multiple sizes to family rooms with a Queen and two twins in an adjoining room with a shared bathroom.
• Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast and Horse Hotel : Nestled on 10 acres of pine forest in Custer, this charming bed & breakfast has two guest rooms and a cabin, plus room in the barn if you bring your horses. Handcrafted pine and cedar log beds with cozy quilts provide the perfect woodsy atmosphere, and a homemade country breakfast greets guests each morning.
• Hills Inn : A Hot Springs 35-room family-owned hotel with complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi. There’s also an outdoor heated pool and mini golf course.
• Bavarian Inn : This 64-room inn brings a bit of Europe to the Black Hills and includes indoor and outdoor heated pools, a hot tub, a tennis court, and a European fitness trail. Guests can enjoy a daily complimentary pancake bar and cookie happy hour.

The entrance to Wind Cave National Park is on U.S. Hwy 385, 11 miles north of Hot Springs and 22 miles south of Custer. Once inside the park, follow signs to the Visitor’s Center, where all cave tours begin. Parking is available at the Visitor’s Center. There is no public transit to the park.

Accessible cave tours and special arrangements are available for those with limited mobility, vision, and hearing. Otherwise, all cave tours include walking, standing, bending, stooping, and climbing stairs.

However, limited cave areas are accessible to wheelchairs and those with limited mobility. The park offers special half-hour accessibility where visitors can get an introduction to the cave and box work, the cave’s signature feature. This tour includes riding the elevator into and out of the cave, and accessible parking is available at the elevator building. To arrange an accessible tour, call the visitor center at (605) 745-4600, or ask at the information desk for an Accessible Tour.

Cave trails are dimly lit, often narrow, with many stairs, and may be wet and slippery in certain areas. Persons with vision impairments should be cautious when entering the cave; bringing an extra flashlight may help. For those with hearing impairments, sign-language programming can be arranged in advance if the park is contacted at least two weeks ahead of time to arrange accommodations.

Visitors in wheelchairs can view the cave's natural entrance, accessible via a ramp and sidewalk from the Visitor’s Center or a flat trail that starts at the picnic area.

The Visitor’s Center is accessible to wheelchairs and those with limited mobility, and an elevator is available between floors.

There are two wheelchair-accessible campsites, B2 and D3, at the Elk Mountain Campground.

• Entrance to the park is free, but tours of the cave range in admission from $10 to $12 for adults and $5 to $6 for children and seniors.
• Cave access is by a ranger-guided tour from the Visitor’s Center only. Tickets are first-come, first-serve on the day of the tour, so during spring, summer, and fall, it’s best to get in line by 6:30 a.m. to secure tickets. Tours often sell out by mid-day.
• There are three tours offered: the Garden of Eden Tour (1 hour), the Natural Entrance Tour (1 hour 15 minutes), and the Fairgrounds Tour (1 hour 30 minutes), which has the most stairs and is the most strenuous.
• All cave tours (except special accessibility tours) involve walking up and down stairs and occasional low ceilings. Cave tours are not recommended for anyone with claustrophobia, heart or respiratory conditions, recent surgeries or illnesses, knee or back problems, or other physical limitations. 
• The cave is a constant 54 degrees Fahrenheit, so wear long sleeves and bring a jacket.
• It’s essential to be aware of the large wildlife that roam in the park above the caves, including bison and mountain lions. Visitors must stay at least 25 yards from all wildlife, although it is strongly recommended to stay farther away from bison, which may appear tame but are unpredictable and can charge without warning.

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Fairgrounds Tour

Wind Cave National Park Tours

Tour sold out? Additional tickets are available for same-day purchase at the park visitor center. Visit the Guided Tours page of the park website for a current schedule.

Explore both the upper and middle levels of Wind Cave. This tour offers plenty for those wanting to see a variety of features on their tour with abundant boxwork in the middle level of the cave and larger rooms, popcorn, and frostwork in the upper level. This 1.5-hour strenuous tour enters and exits the cave by elevator. Navigating 450 stairs, including one flight of 89 steps going up along the 0.6-mile route, it’s not just the features that will leave you breathless.

Select a date to see a list of times

Need to Know

Tickets must be picked up 30 minutes prior to tour time. No refunds for late arrivals or missed tours. All tours begin at the Visitor Center. Allow extra travel time to the park for road work, reduced speeds, wildlife on roads, and parking. A print or electronic confirmation is suitable for claiming tickets at the park.

Check at the visitor center for current Covid-related safety precautions. Face coverings may be required during periods of high infection rates.

Tour includes 450 stairs that may be uneven, wet, or slippery. Passages are dimly-lit and narrow; low ceilings require frequent ducking. Wind Cave is 54°F (12°C) year-round.

Cave tours are moderately strenuous and not recommended for those with heart problems, breathing difficulty, knee, neck, or back pain, or claustrophobia. Even downward flights of stairs may be difficult for those with bad joints or limited stamina.

Please don’t bring any of these items into the cave: 

• Food, candy, or gum
• Water or other drinks
• Tobacco products
• Firearms or weapons of any kind
• Bags, purses, strollers, backpacks – including baby backpack carriers (front carriers allowed)
• Walking sticks, tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks
• Pets or comfort animals

Sturdy shoes or hiking boots and a light jacket or sweater are recommended. Sandals and flip-flops are NOT recommended.

Flash photography is allowed. Photographers must keep up with the group. No tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks.

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Wind Cave tours + tickets 🦇 What’s the best Wind Cave National Park tour?! 🦇 South Dakota travel blog

The specific cave tours that are offered at Wind Cave National Park  when you are there will depend on cave access at that time.

It is worth it to do at least one Wind Cave tour.

Can you go inside Wind Cave without a tour?

So one of the most important things to know about Wind Cave is that you cannot go inside Wind Cave without a guided tour.

You cannot go inside Wind Cave on your own.

So in order to see inside Wind Cave, you must sign up for a Wind Cave tour!

Your tour guide will be a national park ranger.

In order to make a trip to Wind Cave really worth it, you need to do a cave tour.

Yes, it is a cool experience to walk inside Wind Cave!

And then the other important thing to know is that Wind Cave tours do sell out.

So planning is required!

Wind Cave tour offerings can change

It seems to be a thing across national parks that elevators for cave tours get broken.

When I made a visit to Wind Cave in 2021, there was an elevator that was broken, and this meant that not all cave tours were offered.

Elsewhere, when I went to Jewel Cave National Monument , there was also an elevator broken that limited cave tours.

And while on a Jewel Cave tour , there was a kid who asked about broken cave elevators because when he went to Carlsbad Caverns National Park there was a broken elevator. (I’m not sure when he went there.)

But to know the current Wind Cave tours that are offered, you can check the National Park Service website for updates. And it can be good to check in the days leading up to your Wind Cave visit too, in case there are any other alerts to be aware of.

While not all cave tours were offered, there were one cave tours available, so I did that one.

It was the Natural Entrance cave tour.

How much does it cost to do a Wind Cave tour?

There is no official entry fee collection for Wind Cave National Park, but there are fees for the cave tours.

If you have an annual national park pass , then it won’t do you any good at Wind Cave National Park, as it gives you no discount on the cave tours.

The cost of a Wind Cave tour will depend on which tour you decide on.

The cost of tickets for the Wind Cave tours is around $15 to $17 per person.

The adult prices are listed below, and there is a discounted rate for kids and seniors.

Number of reviews are at the time I created this list, also indicating the most popular tours.

Here are the best Wind Cave tours based on popularity:

• The Natural Entrance Tour is $17 per person. (1 hour 15 minutes, 300 steps, moderate, 192 reviews)
• The Garden of Eden Tour is $15 per person. (1 hour, 150 steps, easy, 103 reviews)
• The Fairgrounds Tour is $17 per person. (1.5 hours, 450 steps, difficult, 78 reviews)

See the current list of tours and fees.

There are more cave tours on the list, but according to the National Park Service website (select the date you will be there under “tour and program schedule”), only 3 tours are offered.

But, check back for current info as your travel date gets closer!

The Candlelight Tour sounds fun but at the time I am looking this up in early 2023, it’s not listed on the 2023 schedule.

But maybe it will be added so be sure to look at the current offerings!

Be sure to read the full description of any Wind Cave tour you are looking to do to make sure you know what you’re getting into, and so you can be properly prepared for it.

How to buy tickets for a Wind Cave tour

The important thing to know is that Wind Cave tours do sell out.

So planning is best!

In 2023, the best way to buy your ticket for Wind Cave tours is through the official National Park Service reservation website .

When you are on the national park reservations website for the individual tours, you can go to the calendar availability.

If you click on a certain date, it will tell you how many tickets are left for each tour time. So this can let you know how soon you should book.

If there is still availability of the cave tours, then you can also buy tickets to the Wind Cave tours when you show up at the Wind Cave Visitor Center.

The way to buy tickets can always change, so it’s important to check for updated Wind Cave ticket info from the National Park Service website .

You may also try calling the Wind Cave visitor center to speak with a park ranger to ask about how the availability of any of the cave tours for the day is looking.

The listed phone number for the Wind Cave visitor center is 605-745-4600.

Do you need to buy tickets in advance for Wind Cave tours?

According to the National Park Service:

Reservations are recommended as tours often sell out March through October and on holiday weekends throughout winter. Roughly half of all tour tickets are held in reserve for same-day sales. These tickets are first-come, first-served at the visitor center the day of the tour. Same-day tickets often sell out an hour or more before tour times.

See current updates under “tour reservations.”

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How should you dress for Wind Cave?

In short, bring a layer or 2, and wear good shoes!

You will want to dress for cooler temperatures for Wind Cave.

Even if it’s nearing 100F outside (possible in South Dakota in summer!), it is cooler in the cave.

It is said that inside Wind Cave is consistently in the mid-50s.

The National Park Service says the Wind Cave temperature is around 54F.

For this reason, you’ll want to bring some extra clothes for the tour.

You will likely want to wear a sweatshirt or light jacket inside Wind Cave.

You will also want to wear shoes good for walking so your feet can be comfortable as you walk through Wind Cave!

The ground of the cave floor isn’t always completely flat.

For this reason, you’ll want to be sure you wear good shoes (not sandals) for your Wind Cave tour.

More specifically, the National Park Service also says :

Wear low-heeled walking shoes with non-slip soles.

Also, for the health of the bats, you are asked not to wear shoes you have worn in other caves.

It’s also best to bring as little as possible to the cave tour. (So don’t bring a backpack for example.)

Also while we are talking about what to wear, we will also talk about what not to wear on your next cave trip after Wind Cave!

Take a full-body picture of yourself when you are inside Wind Cave!

This way, you will know what NOT to wear the next time you go inside a cave!

And you are also asked to not wear the shoes you wear in Wind Cave in any other caves of the future.

It is said that your shoes may be carrying disease harmful to bats that can be tracked into other caves.

There’s a disease that’s deadly to bats is called white-nose syndrome. (This doesn’t affect humans at all.)

White-nose syndrome is thought to have been mostly spread from cave to cave by humans who have entered a cave with the fungus and then tracked it into another cave.

This is why it’s best not to wear the same shoes (or even clothes) that you wore into Wind Cave into any other cave in the world.

The most serious park I went to, Craters of the Moon National Monument , didn’t want you wearing ANYTHING into the Craters of the Moon caves that you wore into any cave in the last 15 years!

It was literally a question that was asked upon entry to the park!

So, by taking a picture of yourself, you’ll know what you wore into Wind Cave so you’ll know what not to wear to another cave!

If you are going to both Wind Cave and Jewel Cave , consider bringing 2 pairs of shoes with you to South Dakota.

Save the bats!

Why save the bats?!

And that’s a little bit about doing a Wind Cave tour!

I did a Wind Cave tour in August 2021. Your experience may vary!

Above ground: Things to do in Wind Cave National Park

More for your South Dakota road trip: Best places to visit in South Dakota

More national parks with caves:

• Jewel Cave National Monument
• Mammoth Cave National Park tours
• Craters of the Moon National Monument

HAPPY DOING A CAVE TOUR IN WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK!

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• For men: Merrell hiking shoes
• Rain poncho in case it rains and it won't stop you from doing things outside!
• For women: Teva walking sandals (one of the best sandal brands for the outdoors)
• For men: Teva sandals
• Moisture-wicking tech t-shirt for women perfect for hiking and hot days when you'll be outside a lot sweating
• tech-t-shirt for men
• For more ideas, do a search for hiking clothes !

11 Essential Things to Do in Wind Cave National Park

By: Author Bram Reusen

Posted on Last updated: June 4, 2023

Established in 1903 by the conservationist President Theodore Roosevelt, Wind Cave National Park is one of the oldest national parks in America . It is also the very first national park in the world that was created to protect a subterranean landscape.

With more than 150 miles, and counting, of explored passageways, Wind Cave is one of the longest known caves on Earth.

It is home to intricate cave formations, such as delicate frostwork, cave “popcorn” and, its main claim to fame, huge collections of boxwork—95% of boxwork in the world is found in Wind Cave.

Besides its exceptional length and rare boxwork, Wind Cave is also notable for its namesake feature. Due to barometric pressure changes in the cave, it “breathes.” As the air pressure changes, gusts of wind blow in and out of the cave.

The Lakota consider this to be a sacred place , Wind Cave being the site where they first emerged from the underworld.

As fascinating as the underground world of Wind Cave National Park is, the aboveground landscapes are quite remarkable as well. Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota , it sits at the meeting point of the mixed-grass prairie of the Great Plains and the ponderosa pine forests of the West.

Wildlife thrives here, including prairie dogs, pronghorn, elk, mule deer, coyotes, rattlesnakes, burrowing owls, American bison and rare black-footed ferrets.

Although many people limit their visit to Wind Cave to a cave tour, there are many other amazing things to do in Wind Cave National Park. While cave tours are definitely a must-do activity, you shouldn’t skip the woods and prairie above this massive cave.

You could easily spend two or three days exploring the park inside and out on the following Wind Cave National Park activities.

1. Go on a Cave Tour

2. visit the natural entrance, 3. enjoy iconic great plains scenery on the prairie vista trail, 4. walk the elk mountain trail, 5. hike the rankin ridge trail, 6. see america’s national mammal at bison flats, 7. drive the scenic nps 5 and 6 backcountry roads, 8. spot some of wind cave national park’s 100+ bird species, 9. listen to the bugling of bull elk, 10. observe prairie dogs in their “towns”, 11. camp at the elk mountain campground, do i have to pay a fee to enter wind cave national park, how much time do i need to experience wind cave national park, what is the best time to visit wind cave national park, what can i do with my dog in wind cave national park, where can i stay near wind cave national park, which animals can i see in wind cave national park, popular activities and attractions near wind cave national park, things to do in other national parks in the great plains and rocky mountains.

This blog post about the best things to do in Wind Cave National Park contains affiliate links. You can read more about our  Terms of Use / Disclosure here .

Arguably the number one thing to do in Wind Cave National Park, at least when looking solely at the percentage of visitors who do this, is going on a guided cave tour. And yes, Wind Cave tours are unquestionably one of this national park’s star attractions.

Descend into the third longest cave in America—after Mammoth Cave, Kentucky , and Jewel Cave, which is also in the Black Hills—and discover a unique world of boxwork, frostwork, cave “popcorn” and subterranean lakes, among other underground features.

There are five different tours on offer, three of which are suitable for the entire family. The other two have age restrictions and may not be convenient or safe for some visitors.

Most Popular Wind Cave Tours

• Garden of Eden Tour – 1 hour, 1/3 mile, moderate, all ages
• Natural Entrance Tour – 1 hour 15 minutes, 2/3 mile, moderate, all ages
• Fairgrounds Tour – 1 hour 30 minutes, 2/3 mile, strenuous, all ages

Alternative Wind Cave Tours

• Candlelight Tour – 2 hours, 2/3 mile, moderate (by candlelight), minimum 8 years old
• Wild Cave Tour – 4 hours, very strenuous (spelunking, basic training required before tour), minimum 16 years old

All tours of Wind Cave start at the Visitor Center.

Although half of the tickets are available on a first-come first-served basis on the day of the tour, it is highly recommend to reserve tickets in advance on Recreation.gov , especially in the high season.

You can find more information about guided tours in Wind Cave National Park, as well as times and dates, prices and safety information here on the park’s official website .

If you don’t take the Natural Entrance Tour, you can still see one of the cave’s natural entrances.

As long as Wind Cave is, it “has very few natural entrances,” the National Park Service says. “The largest and most well-known naturally formed entrance is only about ten inches wide. This is a very spiritual place to many different native people and is considered the birthplace of the Lakota nation .”

During business hours, when the Visitor Center is open, you can get there via a ramp and paved sidewalk from the Visitor Center. The walk between the Natural Entrance and Visitor Center is only approximately 225 yards one way.

Alternatively, there’s another short trail to the Natural Entrance, which is accessible all day long, including outside of Visitor Center hours. This 150-yard gravel trail starts at the picnic area.

FYI: Leashed pets are allowed on the short trail from the picnic area to the Natural Entrance. They are not allowed on the sidewalk between the Visitor Center and Natural Entrance, which requires entering the Visitor Center first.

If you’re lucky enough, you may feel the very gusts of wind that gave the cave its name. During times of large atmospheric pressure changes, it’s even possible to hear the winds of Wind Cave as they leave or enter the cave.

It’s neither the longest nor the hardest hike in Wind Cave National Park, but the Prairie Vista Trail is certainly one of the nicest.

Starting at the Visitor Center or picnic area, this 1-mile trail loops through the park’s iconic mixed-grass prairie. It provides sweeping views of the prairie, as well as opportunities to see wildlife. Boards along the way offer information about the park.

This is a great little hike to do if you’re short on time when visiting Wind Cave National Park. The loop takes only about 30 minutes and is excellent for kids and pets.

FYI: The Prairie Vista Trail is one of the two trails in Wind Cave National Park where leashed pets are allowed.

Another short but very enjoyable trail at Wind Cave is the Elk Mountain Trail. This fascinating trail loops around the Elk Mountain Campground, at the meeting point of prairie and forest.

The trail is only 1 mile long and doesn’t take longer than 30 minutes, but it’s a wonderful introduction to the diversity of Wind Cave National Park.

Additionally, as its name implies, this is a great area to listen to the bugling of bull elk in fall. Try to hike the Elk Mountain Trail at dawn or dusk for the best opportunities to hear the mating calls of these majestic mammals.

FYI: In addition to the Prairie Vista Trail, the Elk Mountain Trail is the second Wind Cave trail where pets are allowed , provided they’re on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

For a best-bang-for-your-buck hiking experience in Wind Cave National Park, arguably no trail is better than the Rankin Ridge Trail.

Although only about 1 mile long, this loop trail climbs to a high ridge that offers commanding views of the prairie and Black Hills. Rankin Ridge is the highest point in the national park and, on a clear day, it’s possible to see as far as the Badlands in the east.

Often, you can see various birds of prey here, including golden eagles, hawks and turkey vultures.

Located in the northwestern corner of the national park, the trailhead to Rankin Ridge is at the end of a spur road off of Highway 87 toward Custer State Park.

More recommended hikes in Wind Cave National Park:

• Cold Brook Canyon Trail (2.8 miles, out and back)
• Wind Cave Canyon Trail (3.6 miles, out and back)
• Lookout Point – Centennial Trail Loop (4.5 miles, loop)
• Boland Ridge Trail (5.2 miles, out and back)
• East Bison Flats Trail (7.4 miles, out and back)

You can find more information about hiking in Wind Cave National Park on the park’s website here .

The road through Bison Flats is one of the most scenic drives in Wind Cave National Park.

Situated roughly between Gobbler Ridge and the Visitor Center area, this relatively level expanse of mixed-grass prairie is often frequented by Wind Cave National Park’s famous bison herds.

The iconic American bison came perilously close to extinction in the late-1800s—there were fewer than a thousand left in North America in 1900—but a devoted group of conservationists managed to save a few hundred animals.

After Wind Cave National Park was established in 1903, the American Bison Society transported fourteen animals—seven bulls and seven cows—from the New York Zoological Gardens, which is now the Bronx Zoo, to the national park in 1913.

In 1916, six additional bison were sent to Wind Cave from the large Yellowstone National Park herd. Those twenty original bison are the ancestors of the Wind Cave National Park bison herd today. That herd now consists of hundreds of individual animals.

Except for the rugged and remote backcountry areas, Bison Flats is the easiest place at Wind Cave to see bison , the official national mammal of the United States and one of the true symbols of the American West.

Read about the other U.S. national parks where you can see bison in the wild here .

Slicing through the wild backcountry of eastern Wind Cave National Park, the NPS 5 and 6 gravel roads offer drivers a unique experience away from the crowds.

NPS 5 turns away from paved Highway 87 near the northwestern border of the park, while NPS 6 enters the park from Custer State Park in the northeast. Both roads converge in the scenic Red Valley, the remotest part of Wind Cave National Park accessible by vehicle.

Because this area is so far away from bustling traffic and the busy Visitor Center, it’s a superb place for wildlife watching.

Along NPS 6, herds of elk are often seen on the hills, particularly at Boland Ridge. NPS 5, on the other hand, is known for its bison sightings and prairie dog towns.

Note: These backcountry roads are narrower than regular paved roads. Gravel pullouts are available to park and enjoy the scenery, or to let other vehicles pass. Usually pretty well-maintained, they’re suitable for most passenger vehicles , but remember that there is no gas and poor cell service. Driving them after storms or in winter is not recommended.

The permanent home of more than a hundred species of birds , Wind Cave National Park is a birder’s paradise. On top of those resident birds, numerous others migrate through the park in spring and fall.

Cave tours and hiking may be the two most popular things to do in Wind Cave National Park, but bird watching is definitely one of the most underrated.

Set at the meeting point of Great Plains prairie and the Black Hills forests, the park is a refuge for an incredible diversity of birds.

From burrowing owls, cliff swallows, red-headed woodpeckers and Western meadowlarks to birds of prey like turkey vultures, great horned owls, red-tailed hawks and golden eagles, the checklist of birds at Wind Cave is exceptionally long.

Some of the best places in Wind Cave National Park for bird watching are the Elk Mountain Campground, the Prairie Vista Trail and general Visitor Center area, Rankin Ridge and, especially, the limestone walls of Wind Cave Canyon.

In fall, from mid-September through October, the somewhat-eerie sound of bull elk bugles can be heard at twilight in certain areas in Wind Cave National Park.

Bugling occurs during the elk rut, the mating season of these large members of the deer family. This is when bulls compete for cows, fighting each other with their massive antlers and expressing themselves through loud bugles.

“This bugle heralds fall in the western United States and can be heard from dusk to dawn in the park each year,” the National Park Service says .

The elk are most active just before sunrise and just after sunset, which are the best times to listen for bugling bull elk at Wind Cave.

There are a couple of locations where opportunities to hear this iconic wilderness sound are best.

The easiest is at the appropriately named Elk Mountain Campground and the surrounding Elk Mountain Trail.

Although elk usually don’t venture into the campground itself, they do roam the nearby slopes to the west and the south, and can often be heard in the distance.

The second excellent place to see elk and listen to the bulls’ bugling is Boland Ridge in the far eastern part of the park. Located on the NPS 6 backcountry road, this remote area is home to herds of both elk and bison.

Additionally, you may also be able to hear elk bugling from roadside parking areas on Highway 87 or Highway 385. Stop at spots like the Beaver Creek pullout, Wind Cave Canyon Trailhead, Cold Brook Canyon and/or Bison Flats to listen.

The counterpart of the massive bison that roam the prairie, prairie dogs are small rodents that are part of the squirrel family. Both animals are true icons of the Great Plains.

And they may be rather small, but black-tailed prairie dogs are among the most visible animals in Wind Cave National Park.

You can find them in their so-called “towns” or colonies, sprawling collections of interconnected burrows, sleeping quarters and even toilets. Some prairie dog towns are so large, up to several hundred acres, that they consist of different “neighborhoods,” also known as “coteries.”

These popular park inhabitants are a lot of fun to watch for a while, as they pop in and out of their burrows, run across the meadows, and talk to each other through various calls.

Numerous prairie dog towns dot the prairie of Wind Cave National Park, some of which can be seen along backcountry hiking trails and the western part of NPS 5.

Watching the iconic prairie dogs go about their daily business is without a doubt one of the top things to do in Wind Cave National Park.

Other animals in Wind Cave National Park are also attracted to prairie dog towns, whether it’s for easy housing opportunities or a meal. Watch for black-footed ferrets, coyotes, burrowing owls, hawks and rattlesnakes.

Fun fact: Early French explorers called these industrious rodents “petit chien”, or “little dog” in English. They got their name because of their call, which resembles a canine bark, not because of their physical resemblance to dogs.

There are very few facilities and services within Wind Cave National Park. No gas, no restaurants, no groceries and no lodging. There is, however, a fun campground where you can spend the night.

The Elk Mountain Campground , located just northwest of the Visitor Center, is open year-round.

Its 62 campsites can be reserved in advance on Recreation.gov . Sites that aren’t reserved are assigned on a first-come first-served basis on the day of camping. According to the National Park Service, the Elk Mountain Campground usually doesn’t fill up.

Flush toilets and drinking water are available from late-spring through early-fall. In the down season, there are vault toilets, but no water. Campsites have a designated fire ring and picnic table.

Situated at the edge of a ponderosa pine forest and the open prairie, the Elk Mountain Campground is a great place to immerse yourself in the park’s diverse flora. Fauna is also often seen—or heard—here, including the bugling of bull elk in the fall.

The Elk Mountain Trail, which starts at the amphitheater, is a wonderful place to enjoy the scenery and see a variety of native birds.

Visiting Wind Cave National Park FAQs

No, Wind Cave National Park does not charge an entrance fee to drive through the park, visit viewpoints and hike the trails.

The only fees are for ranger-guided cave tours (ranging from $14 to $45 per person) and to camp at the Elk Mountain Campground ($24 per site per night in the high season, $12 per site per night in the low season).

You could easily get a glimpse and taste of the diversity of Wind Cave National Park in a day. Go on a cave tour, do a short hike, drive Highways 87 and 385, and that’s a pretty great day.

However, to fully experience everything the park has to offer, you should dedicate at least two days to Wind Cave National Park .

Camp at the Elk Mountain Campground, get a cabin in neighboring Custer State Park, or book a room in nearby Custer or Hot Springs.

In two days, you’ll have the amazing opportunity to enjoy Wind Cave in the evening and/or morning. These are the best times to watch the park’s wildlife, while the “golden hour” is a truly magical time on the prairie.

It would also allow you to enjoy some more hiking and drive the scenic NPS 5 and 6 backcountry roads.

To do all the things in Wind Cave National Park mentioned above in a comfortable and unrushed way, you’d need to spend two days and one night in the area.

Wind Cave National Park is open throughout the year, but for the most enjoyable experience, the fall season is probably the best time for a visit . Although each season has something going for it, fall typically has the nicest weather and best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Winter in the southern Black Hills is slightly warmer than in the northern Black Hills, sheltered somewhat from the frigid air blowing south from Canada.

Snowfall is possible from December through March, while the daily high temperatures range between the high-30s and low-40s.

Spring brings rising temperatures, but also more rain. May, June and July are the wettest months in Wind Cave National Park.

A typical spring day is unpredictable and can come with a variety of weather, from sunny spells to sudden rain showers and gusts of wind.

Summer is by far the warmest season at Wind Cave. From June through August, the daily high temperatures are well in the 80s, a very comfortable time of year for scenic drives and short hikes.

That said, though, severe thunderstorms are also possible in June and July. These storms are capable of producing severe lightning in the Black Hills, as well as large hailstones. Flash floods are possible throughout the summer.

This brings us to fall, which starts in September and runs through mid-November. Fall is the driest season in Wind Cave National Park, with only about 1 inch of precipitation in October. Temperatures are most enjoyable in September and October, ranging from the mid-70s to mid-60s.

Fall offers comfy daytime temperatures, crisp nights and beautiful fall foliage in the forests. Additionally, this is also when the elk rut takes place, complete with the iconic bugling of the bull elk.

Wind Cave National Park is one of the few national parks where you can hike with your dog . However, dogs are only allowed on two trails: the Prairie Vista Trail and Elk Mountain Trail .

You can also explore the Elk Mountain Campground and the grassy areas around the Visitor Center with your four-legged friends. Additionally, dogs are allowed on established roads and in parking areas , both paved and unpaved.

Dogs must be on a leash that’s no longer than 6 feet at all times. You may not leave your dog in your car. Dogs are not allowed in public buildings, on ranger programs, on cave tours or in the backcountry.

You can find more information about pets in Wind Cave National Park here .

Besides the Elk Mountain Campground, there are no lodging options within Wind Cave National Park. You’ll find the widest range of options in three nearby areas:

• Town of Hot Springs (15 minutes south)
• Town of Custer (20 minutes northwest)
• Custer State Park (35 minutes north)

The nearest major city to Wind Cave National Park and the main gateway to the area’s numerous parks is Rapid City , about an hour to the north.

A wide range of wildlife calls Wind Cave National Park home. Situated where the prairie meets the forest, the park’s diverse habitats harbor an abundance of animals.

You’re almost certain to see prairie dogs during your visit, while other iconic prairie mammals like bison, pronghorn and mule deer are common sights as well. You’ll find these large animals in open grasslands like Bison Flats, on ridges and along backcountry roads.

With some more patience, you might see or hear elk and coyotes , especially at dawn and dusk.

Also present in the park, although less frequently seen, are black-footed ferrets , which live in or near prairie dog towns.

Remember that all animals in Wind Cave National Park are wild and should never be approached. This goes for the smallest mammals like prairie dogs, which can carry diseases like the plague (yes, really!), to the largest, such as elk and bison, which may charge when provoked or irritated.

Learn about elk safety here . Learn about bison safety here .

Park rules say that you should stay at least 25 yards away from wildlife. If animals are close to the road, stay in your vehicle.

As far as birds go, there are more than a hundred species in the park, along with many others that pass through seasonally. Look for the fascinating burrowing owls in prairie dog towns, while elsewhere on the prairie, you might see wild turkeys, western meadowlarks, grouse and bluebirds .

Up in the sky, watch for golden eagles, hawks, magpies and turkey vultures . In the forest, keep your eyes peeled for great horned owls, woodpeckers, western tanagers and cedar waxwings .

Although a couple of turtle species have been seen in the park, the lack of water makes them uncommon. Almost all reptiles in Wind Cave National Park are snakes, which thrive on the sun-soaked prairie.

Snakes are particularly visible in summer when the higher temperatures make them most active. Garter snakes, milk snakes and bullsnakes are common around the Visitor Center.

The only venomous snake in Wind Cave National Park is the prairie rattlesnake . They are quite common in this region, most often seen in and around prairie dog towns and in rocky places. Generally speaking, unless they’re feeling trapped, prairie rattlesnakes are not aggressive and will avoid encounters.

Learn what to do when you encounter a rattlesnake here .

Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Wind Cave National Park is close to a plethora of other amazing destinations and attractions.

Other popular parks and sites in the Black Hills are:

• Custer State Park
• Jewel Cave National Monument
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial
• Crazy Horse Memorial
• Mammoth Site

Elsewhere in southwestern South Dakota, there are two other awesome National Park Service sites, approximately two hours to the northeast from Wind Cave:

• Badlands National Park
• Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Across the border in Wyoming, you’ll find the very first national monument ever designated by a U.S. President, a popular day trip destination from the Black Hills area:

• Devils Tower National Monument

Have You Visited Wind Cave Before? What Are Your Favorite Things to Do in Wind Cave National Park? Share Your National Parks Experience Below!

• Badlands National Park Highlights
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park Highlights
• Yellowstone National Park Highlights
• Grand Teton National Park Highlights
• Glacier National Park Highlights (Going-to-the-Sun Road)

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Come for the Cave Tour, Stay for the Trails: 5 Best Hikes in Wind Cave National Park

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While most visitors drive through Wind Cave National Park to visit the cave, hiking one of the many designated trails can be just as awe-inspiring and enjoyable as the traditional cave tour. Here are five hikes to do next time you visit this beautiful park.

Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota was the seventh designated National Park in the United States and the first cave designated as a National Park in the world. The cave is known for its extensive boxwork calcite cave formations, but the land above is impressive too.

There are over 30 miles of trails, and the open hike policy means you can hike anywhere! Not only can you hike off-trail, but several of the hiking trails connect, so you can make the hike as long or as short as you would like.

Visitors should expect to enjoy the bison (from a distance!), prairie dogs, pronghorn, bull elk, black-footed ferret, mule deer, and coyote. This park is perfect for bird watching too, especially in the canyons.

There are northern flicker woodpeckers, western meadowlarks, wild turkeys, sharp-tailed grouse, red-tailed hawks, owls, and more. There are also a variety of snakes like the Garter snake, milk snake, yellow-bellied racer, and bullsnake. Be aware of the venomous prairie rattlesnake, which has a triangular head, as opposed to the oval-headed bullsnake.

The prairie provides an ideal home for all sorts of wildlife, and you will most likely see or hear some along with your hikes. The land is wide open, so wear a hat and sunscreen and bring a map and plenty of water!

5 Hikes to Do in Wind Cave National Park

1. rankin ridge trail.

This trail is perfect for someone looking for a loop hike on the shorter side. Wind Cave National Park isn’t known for its high elevation, but hiking Rankin Ridge brings you to the highest elevation point in the park where you get a beautiful view of the prairie from above.

Begin by walking uphill through a forest, and then up some stone stairs until you reach a historic fire tower, which is no longer open to the public. Enjoy the view and then continue on the loop back downhill toward the parking lot.

• Trailhead: Rankin Ridge Nature Trail road, off Highway 87
• Total hiking distance: 1 mi./1.6 km loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation gain: 239 ft., 73 m
• Highlights: Viewing the prairie from above and a historic fire tower

2. Cold Brook Canyon Trail

This trail begins by steeply dropping down a hill and then evens out for the remainder of the hike. The high canyon walls will be on your left-hand side and the lower canyon walls on the far right.

The trail leads you through tall grasses and plenty of prairie dog towns. The trail ends at a gate on the western border of the park, so return the way you came. A bison sighting is quite frequent here, too.

• Trailhead: A small parking lot south of the visitor center along Highway 385
• Total Hiking Distance: 2.8 mi./4.5 km out and back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation gain: 200 ft., 61 m
• Highlights: Hiking by high canyon walls and prairie dog towns

3. East Bison Flats Trail

If you want to experience the rolling hills of the prairie with more wildlife than people, this hiking trail will be perfect.

There is a path to follow, but follow the wooden posts in the tall grasses to help you stay on track. You can also stray off the trail if you need to reroute due to bison on the path or if you want to see more. The prairie is wide open, so make sure you bring sun protection and enough water for the whole hike.

• Trailhead: A pull-off on Highway 385 near the southern border of this park. You can also access it from the Wind Cave Canyon Trailhead.
• Total hiking distance: 7.4 mi./12 km out and back
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Elevation gain: 1,463 ft., 446 m
• Highlights: Rolling hills and a high chance of seeing bison

4. Centennial Trail – Lookout Point Loop

This trail in the park is a part of the 111-mile long-distance hiking trail, all in South Dakota. It goes through Custer State Park, Black Elk Wilderness, and the Black Hills National Forest and ends in Bear Butte State Park.

These 6 miles in Wind Cave are the most southern part of the long trail. Connect this trail with Lookout Point Trail to make it a 4.5-mile, 7.2km loop hike. It also connects with the Highline Creek Trail and Sanctuary Trail for an additional loop.

There are plenty of prairie dog towns along the hiking trail, and prairie dogs communicate with their community by squeaking, so you’ll probably hear them before you see them!

• Trailhead: There will be a pull-off on Highway 87 and NPS road 5; it’s also the Lookout Point Trailhead
• Total hiking distance: 12 mi./9.7 km out and back
• Elevation gain: 685 ft., 209 m
• Highlights: Hiking a section of a long trail and enjoying all of the prairie dog towns

5. Boland Ridge Trail

If you want some solitude, this is the hike to do. The trail begins in the far eastern part of the park, and you’ll need to drive an unpaved road to reach the trailhead.

It’s another great hike to enjoy the prairie and spot wildlife without anyone else around. The trail ends abruptly at a sign saying “End of Trail” so it’s really about enjoying the experience of hiking up and down through the prairie.

• Trailhead: A small parking area off NPS road 6
• Total hiking distance: 5.2 mi./8.4 km out and back
• Elevation gain: 816 ft., 249 m
• Highlights: Hiking the most secluded trail in the park and a high chance of wildlife sightings

Wind Cave National Park: More to Offer

If you are planning a visit to Wind Cave National Park, definitely go enjoy the traditional guided cave tour. But if you also love hiking, grab a park map at the visitor center and enjoy the many trails, too! These are just a few of our favorites.

This park has much more to offer than people realize, and there is plenty to see if you give it more time. Learn more about the park at NPS.gov. 

The 10 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Visit Yosemite National Park for outstanding hiking through alpine meadows, next to waterfalls, and up glacier-carved granite domes. Read more…

Xiaoling Keller calls a lot of places home. Most recently it was the Appalachian Trail, which has been a dream of her’s since childhood. (She successfully completed the AT in 2023.) Keller has also lived outside for months at a time, like whilst visiting 48 of the 63 U.S. National Parks. Her personal interests include: backpacking, camping, hiking, photography, van life without a van, and eating plant-based meals.

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20 Unique Things to do in Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is the first National Park in the world to protect a cave. Designated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, it’s one of America’s oldest National Parks. Experience a small portion of the 154.2 miles underground passageways and the 10,522 acres of mixed-grass prairie and ponderosa pine forest. There are many unique things to do in Wind Cave National Park. 

Let’s take a look at the 20 different experiences Wind Cave National Park has to offer. We’ll start with cave tours , dip into hikes , and then cover everything else the park has to offer .  Read until the end for an epic one day itinerary!

In a Hurry? Let us help!

Unique things.

Wind Cave National Park’s 6 Cave Tours

You can’t visit Wind Cave National Park without touring the first cave to be named a National Park. There are a variety of cave tours available to explorers of all abilities!

Be sure to plan accordingly so you can book the experience that best suits your needs. Tours are available on a first come, first-served basis.  

Here is some import information you need to know before booking your cave tour:

• Cave Tours Are Suspended May 2024 through Fall 2024 for construction
• Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your tour
• The cave is a constant 54°F (12°C), dress warm!
• Handheld flash photography is allowed in cave
• No Walking sticks, tripods, monopods, selfie sticks.
• Food and drinks, including: candy, gum, water, etc. not permitted
• No Bags of any kind, including: backpacks, purses, fanny packs, etc.
• Baby back carriers are not permitted: Children may be carried in arms or in a front carrier.
• Use the restroom prior to your tour, there are none in the cave

1. Garden of Eden Tour

• Not Accessible

This tour enters and leaves the cave by elevator. You’ll traverse 150 steps over .3 easy-paced miles as you explore frostwork, popcorn, and boxwork. 

This is the easiest tour available making it perfect for families with small children and less mobile seniors. If you have more time and stamina, we recommend choosing a different tour. 

Book your tour here ! Additional tickets are available for same day purchase at the visitor center.

2. Natural Entrance Tour

The Natural Entrance Tour is one of the most sought out experiences in the park. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Wind Cave National Park because you enter the cave through a walk-in entrance as opposed to an elevator ride. 

Experience an abundance of boxwork formations on this .6-mile tour. After traversing 300 steps, visitors will exit the cave via elevator.

Snag a Natural Entrance tour ticket here ! Additional tickets are available for same day purchase at the visitor center.

3. Fairgrounds Tour

Explore the upper and middle levels of the cave with the Fairgrounds Tour. As one of the longers tours available to the general public, it’s a great opportunity to see a lot of the cave.

This is considered a more strenuous tour containing 450 steps with one flight boasting 89 steps in a row. We loved the Fairgrounds Tour and felt it really allowed us to experience the cave and get a true feel for its depth.

Purchase your ticket ahead of time here ! Additional tickets are available for same day purchase at the visitor center.

4. Accessibility Tour

Limited areas of the cave are accessible to individuals who utilize wheelchairs and/or have limited mobility. Guests will ride the elevator into and out of the cave. 

This tour allows visitors to learn about the cave and experience its signature feature, box work! Sign language interpreters are also available for this tour with two weeks notice.  

Accessibility Tours are scheduled the day of or up to one day in advance. Call the visitor center at 605-745-4600 for availability.

5. Candlelight Tour

Experience the cave as the first explorers did centuries ago. This is one of the most unique things to do in Wind Cave National Park and many park visitors don’t get a chance to do it.

Carry a candle bucket to a part of the cave void of lights and learn about the unique formations of the Blue Grotto route. This tour is limited to 10 people and includes many steps, narrow passages, and slick footing.  

Reservations for the Candlelight Tour are taken by phone no more than one month in advance (605-745-4600). Tours are limited to ten people you and all youth groups must have an adult sponsor responsible for the group’s conduct accompanying them.

6. Wild Cave Tour

• Very Strenuous

The Wild Cave tour is the most unique way to experience Wind Cave National Park. You’re truly going caving, which includes continual bending, crawling, climbing, and exposure to drop-offs. 

This tour is open to anyone 16 years and older who is willing to dirty clothing and get a sweat on. All participants must be able to fit through a 10 inch tall and three foot wide opening; helmets, lights, and passing are provided by the park service. 

Wild Cave Tours provide an introduction to safe caving before exploring an undeveloped part of the cave.

6 Best Hikes in Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is known for having one of the longest caves in the world. The 28,295 acres of prairie and pine forest are easily forgotten, but they’re home to a number of respectable hiking trails. 

1. Elk Mountain Nature Loop

• 91 Feet Elevation

Parking for this trailhead can be found in the Elk Mountain Campground area of the park.

The grassy prairie and forest come together to form a nice little loop around the Elk Mountain Campground. There are plenty of beautiful little wild flowers throughout the hike to enjoy!

It’s certainly not an incredibly exciting trail, but it’s perfect to stretch your legs or to take the whole family for a scenic stroll. 

2. Rankin’ Ridge

• 239 Feet Elevation
• Easy to Moderate

Just off of Route 87 is a short, paved road to the parking area of Rankin’ Ridge.

An easy, clockwise loop that begins with meandering through the ponderosas will bring you to the highest point in the park. Although the Historic Fire tower is closed, you can see the Badlands and Buffalo Gap on a clear day from its base!

It’s a simple hike with expansive views. Its gentle grade makes it a hike with elevated views that is absolutely adequate for families. 

3. Wind Cave Canyon

• 213 Feet Elevation

The Trailhead is located just off route 385, after the intersection for the Visitor Center.

Wind Cave Canyon trail follows an old road through limestone cliffs. The hike itself is fairly simple but the cliffs provide nesting areas for cliff swallows, canyon wrens, and great horned owls. Be on the lookout for Red-headed and Lewis’s woodpeckers among the snap trees of forested hillsides. 

This mild hike is good for families waiting for their cave tour as it shows visitors what the landscape looks like outside of the cave. 

4. Lookout Point

• 492 Feet Elevation
• Moderately Strenuous

The parking area for Lookout Point is located off of route 87. We recommend hiking this trail counter clockwise, hiking the Lookout Point Trail and reaching Lookout Point first.

Lookout Point is one of the most popular trails in Wind Cave National Park. Most hikers combine it with the Centennial Trail to create a loop but your could hike it as an out and back.

A fairly easy prairie walk with a few rocky up and downs lead to stunning views and a prairie dog town. You’ll want to stay vigilant on this trail. You’ll see bison from afar but you might just stumble upon prairie rattlesnakes. 

5. Boland Ridge 

• 5.2 Miles Roundtrip
• 816 Feet Elevation

The trail begins one mile north of the junction at NP5, at a small parking area on NPS 6.

A trail for those serious about hiking, a series of climbs offer panoramic views of the Black Hills, Red Valley, and the plains beyond. If you’re looking for panoramic views of the prairie, the Boland Ridge Trail is for you!

It is also highly likely that you’ll encounter Elk, Bison and other wildlife along the trail. Always keep your distance from wildlife as they are unpredictable!  

6. Centennial Trail

• 5.8/111 Miles
• 685/3500 Feet Elevation
• Moderate/Strenuous

The full Centennial Trail trail starts at Bear Butte State Park and ends at Wind Cave National Park. The portion of the trail that lies within the park begins at the parking lot on 87 and is 6 mile one way hike to NP5. 

Centennial Trail crosses through prairies, ponderosa forests, and winds along Beaver Creek. Be on the lookout for wildlife including Bison, Elk, Prairie Dogs, and rattle snakes.

If backcountry camping is your thing, this is a great trail to do it on. Free backcountry permits are available for overnights in the northern areas of the park. 

Things to Do in Wind Cave National Park

If you take cave tours and hiking out of the picture, there’s still a handful of epic ways to experience Wind Cave National Park.

Elk Mountain Campground

TOTAL SITES: 62

Electric Hookups:  0

RV Only: 48

Tent Only:  62

Group:  2

Spend the night in Wind Cave National Park. Elk Mountain Campground sits among ponderosa pines at the edge of an open prairie. 

There are 62 open and forested sites available all year round! Drinking water and flush toilets are available through the summer months.

The campground amphitheater offers two different programs, an evening program the focuses on Wind Cave’s cultural and natural history and another that is an Elk Bugling program. 

Hangout with Prairie Dogs

• COMMON NAME:  Prairie Dogs
• TYPE:  Mammals
• DIET:  Herbivore
• GROUP NAME:  Town
• LIFE SPAN:  3 to 4 years
• SIZE:  2 to 15 inches
• WEIGHT:  2 to 4 pounds

All 5 ecosystems of Wind Cave National Park are home to Prairie Dogs. Prairie Dogs are adorable, social animals who are a joy to watch. 

Dog Town can be found out a ways on the Lookout Point Trail. It does require some hiking, however, you’ll see prairie dogs in their most natural form.

There are a few spots in Wind Cave National Park where you’re guaranteed to see Prairie Dogs. The Boland Ridge Trail and along Highway 385 have multiple Prairie Dog towns where you will see active Prairie Dogs and other wildlife. Venture onto NP5 and 6 for

Bison Viewing

• COMMON NAME:  American bison
• GROUP NAME:  Herd
• LIFE SPAN:  12 to 20 years
• SIZE:  7 to 11.5 feet
• WEIGHT:  930 to 2,200 pounds

Wind Cave National Park is home to between 250-400 Bison. It is one of two genetically pure bison herds that have not been blended with cattle. 

You can find Bison throughout the park, Highway 385 is prone to Bison jams making it a great place to see these large, charismatic mammals. Remember to give all wildlife, but especially bison, adequate space. 

The wildlife viewing at Wind Caves is great! National Park Route 5 and 6 are both great places to see wild animals. In these more remote areas of the park, you’re bound to see pronghorn antelope and mule deer in grassy areas.

Check Out the Cave Entrance

• DURATION: 10-20 Minutes
• ACTIVITY: Walking
• PETS: Yes, with restriction
• RESERVATIONS: No
• SEASON: Year Round

You have to check out the natural, and original, entrance into Wind Cave. It’s a 10-inch hole with constant air flow. The air flow is due to the barometric pressure between the cave and outside air.

For being such a large cave system, Wind Cave has very few natural entrances. This one can be accessed via the visitor center and/or the picnic area about 1/4 mile down the road. A short walk on pavement/gravel will lead you to the Natural Entrance.  

This is a deeply spiritual place for many different native people as it is considered the birthplace of the Lakota Nation. At least 20 different native nations have ties to this place and many tribes still utilize the park for traditional ceremonies. 

Cruise NPS 5

• More narrow than paved roads
• Use good judgment on conditions
• Expect wildlife on the roads
• Signage is poor on backcountry roads
• Take a map with you
• Cell service may be non-existent
• Check your fuel level/fill up

Also known as Highland Ridge Road, NPS 5 is a gravel road that travels through the East side of the park. Travel this road by bike or in your vehicle to experience Wind Cave’s beauty.

This road brings you into the less-developed parts of the park. Travel slowly as you’re more likely too experience wildlife along this route. We recommend fueling up and having a map available before you cruise NPS 5 as there is no cell service in this remote area of the park. 

NPS 5 is well-maintained and suitable for standard passenger vehicles. Road conditions may vary after heavy rain and storms. NPS 5 & NPS 6 are not maintained during the winter months.

Drive Wind Cave Geology Tour

• DURATION: 60-90 Minutes
• ACTIVITY: Self-Guided Tour
• PET ALLOWED: No

Learn about the geology of Wind Cave National Park with a driving tour. One of the most unique things to do in Wind Cave National Park is to examine the rock record!

Check out each of the Geology stops and their GPS coordinates below:

• Stop #1: Pahasapa Limestone GPS: 43.557917, -103.479130
• Stop #2: Minnekahta Limestone GPS: 43.521279, -103.476528
• Stop #3: Minnelusa Formation GPS: 43.554526, -103.459070
• Stop #4: Deadwood Sandstone GPS: 43.579946, -103.485369
• Stop #5: Pegmatites GPS: 43.592578, -103.487203
• Stop #6: Schists GPS: 43.601468, -103.493623
• Stop #7: Spearfish Formation / Inyan Kara Group GPS: 43.612048, -103.401745

The 20-mile-long driving tour is presented to visitors in the order that is most convenient for driving. The tour begins at the natural entrance located at the visitor center. From here you’ll travel throughout the park learning about its geology.

Spend Time in the Visitor Center

• OPEN: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm 
• Directions to the Park
• 26611 US Highway 385 Hot Springs, SD 57747
• (605) 745-4600

It’s important that you visit the Park Visitor Center in Wind Cave National Park. It’s important to note that this is the place where visitors purchase cave tours so it can be very busy.

Aside from tour sales, the Visitor Center includes exhibits that display everything about the park. Learn everything from how the Plains Indians used the bison to how the park manages the prairie.

There is also a cave exhibit that explains its development, formations, and colorful history. Tie all the lose ends together with a movie, Wind Cave, Two Worlds , shown in the auditorium. 

2024 Program Schedule

Wind Cave National Park has a Class 1 sky. This means its lack of light and air pollution makes it an excellent dark sky site. The National Park is in the process of becoming an International Dark Sky Park by the  International Dark Sky Association  (IDA).

During the summer months, rangers offer free dark sky programs. These programs offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about light pollution, Lakota Star Knowledge, Full Moon Hikes, and view the night sky at Wind Cave with a telescope. A lot of these hikes take place on the Elk Mountain Trail.

You don’t need to join one of these programs to enjoy the night sky. Sit back and peer into the endless unknown as owls soar overhead and coyotes howl in unison in the distance. No matter where you choose to view the night sky from, it’s a unique way to experience the park and we highly recommend it.  

Wind Cave National Park FAQ

Wind Cave National Park is a unique beauty nestled into the amazing Black Hills of South Dakota. Before you visit, make sure you have the inside scoop.

1. What is the Best Wind Cave Tour?

The more adventurous visitors should try to book a Candlelight ranger-led tour to explore and learn about the cave. If you’re really extreme, look into a Wild Caving Tour for truly unique experience.

2. What is the Best Wind Cave Tour for Families?

Less mobile groups should look into the Garden of Eden or Natural Entrance tour. They are the shortest tours and require the least amount of steps. 

3. How Big is Wind Cave?

Wind Cave is the third longest Cave in the United States and seventh longest cave system in the world. It holds 154.2 miles of explored passageways and is known as one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world.

4. What Makes Wind Cave So Unique?

Wind Cave is known for its outstanding display of boxwork. This unusual cave formation is made from thin strips of calcite that protrude from the cave walls creating a honeycomb pattern. Wind Cave has the highest concentration of this rare rock formation.

5. How Much Does it Cost to go to Wind Cave National Park?

Entrance to Wind Cave National Park is free. A cave tour, however, is going to cost you between $14 and $16. There is one, more extreme cave tour that costs $45. 

6. What Towns are closest to Wind Cave National Park?

There are a few towns you can stay in that are near Wind Cave National Park

• Custer is a 20 minute drive from Wind Cave
• Hot Springs is an 11 minute drive from Wind Cave
• Pringle is an 8 minutes drive from Wind Cave
• Rapid City is a 55 minutes drive from Wind Cave

7. How Many Days Do I Need At Wind Cave National Park?

There are so many unique things to do in Wind Cave National Park, however, one full day should be enough for you to see both areas of the park. Explore both the cave and the prairie in one carefully planned day. 

8. When is the Best Time to Visit Wind Cave?

If you’re looking for clear skies, June through October is the best time to visit Wind Cave National Park. As for the cave, it remains the same temperature all year-round so time of year doesn’t matter much.

9. What Do I Wear to Hike in Wind Cave National Park?

We recommend hiking in boots, long pants, and some type of sun protection for your upper body. Although hiking on the prairie can be hot, many of the trails experience overgrown grasses and poison ivy as well as prairie rattle snakes.

10. How Do I Spend One Day in Wind Cave National Park?

Start your day in Wind Cave early with a sunrise hike, followed by a trip to the visitor center for a cave tour. End the day with another hike or a scenic drive down NPS 5 before stargazing from Elk Mountain Campground. 

• Sunrise hike Rankin’ Ridge
• Head to the Visitor Center to schedule your cave tour and learn about the cave
• Go on your cave tour !
• Take a scenic drive down NPS 5 or take a longer hike , like Lookout Point
• Spend the night at Elk Mountain Campground
• Don’t forget to stargaze! Take the Elk Mountain Trail to reach a high point.

South Dakota Road Trip Spots

Southwestern South Dakota has a variety of amazing locations you need to add to your adventure bucket list. Here’s a list of the 3 best places to visit South Dakota:

• Custer State Park
• Jewel Cave National Monument
• Mount Rushmore

Use our South Dakota road trip itinerary post to plan the best vacation! Our blog post includes a 7-day and a long weekend itinerary!

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The Ultimate Guide to Wind Cave National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

812 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

How to get to wind cave national park, getting around wind cave national park, what to see and do in wind cave national park, best times to visit wind cave national park, where to stay in wind cave national park, where to eat in wind cave national park, wind cave national park facts, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Wind Cave is one of the world’s oldest caves, creating a mazelike underground chamber system. Each year, over a million visitors come to explore Wind Cave National Park. It is teeming with wildlife, has many miles of scenic roads, and of course, a historic cave just waiting to be explored. This park has a rich cultural and geologic history and plenty of sights and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Where Is Wind Cave National Park?

Wind Cave National Park is located in South Dakota, not far from Mount Rushmore . This national park is nestled in the southeastern shoulder of the Black Hills. This national park stretches over 33,000 acres of prairie and forest, with a mesmerizing cave system lying under its surface. 

Nearest Airports to Wind Cave National Park

The closest airport to Wind Cave National Park is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP). This airport is only 48 miles from the park. 

Rapid City Regional Airport offers nonstop flights to 8 different destinations in the US. This airport services many major airlines, including Allegiant, American, Delta, Sun Country, and United. 

Flying into RAP is the most convenient way to arrive in the Black Hills area. With its proximity to Wind Cave National Park, utilizing this airport is a sure way to maximize your travel time. 

Driving to Wind Cave National Park

There are several different routes for arriving at Wind Cave National Park, depending on which area you are coming from. US Highway 285 is the major highway that leads to the park. For those coming directly from Rapid City, Route 79 will lead to Highway 385. For visitors coming from Rapid City by the Black Hills, Highway 16 will lead to Highway 385. This highway leads right to the park entrance and visitor center. 

Taking a Bus to Wind Cave National Park

Taking a Greyhound bus is a great way to enjoy a vacation without the stress and worry of driving. The nearest Greyhound station to Wind Cave National Park is in Rapid City, South Dakota , just 42 miles from the park’s entrance . Once arriving in Rapid City, you are just a short drive from the park. 

There are several ways to get around Wind Cave National Park, including horseback riding and cycling, but the best option for getting around is by personal vehicle. There are miles and miles of highways, paved roads, and gravel roads winding through the park, making a vehicle the best option for exploring. The National Park Service offers an interactive map to help you plan your park excursions. 

Wind Cave National Park has so much for visitors to see and do. From cave exploration to wildlife watching and from hiking to horseback riding, there is something for everyone. Take a look at the activities available in Wind Cave National Park and see which ones you would like to add to your vacation itinerary. 

Biking through Wind Cave National Park is an incredible way to explore the park. This activity is perfect for visitors to enjoy during the spring, summer, or fall months. Bikes are only permitted on established roads throughout the park. Biking is a spectacular way to sightsee at a leisurely pace and take in the natural beauty of the park. 

Birdwatching

Birdwatchers are in for a treat when visiting Wind Cave National Park. Since there is a mixture of ecosystems, there are many birds that can be found in this park. Some of the best places to see the birds of this park include the Elk Mountain Campground and the visitor center.

Over 100 types of birds live in Wind Cave National Park permanently, and dozens of other species pass through during migration seasons. Some of the types of birds frequently spotted in Wind Cave National Park include woodpeckers, great horned owls, yellow warblers, magpies, and turkey vultures.

Birdwatching is a great activity no matter what time of year you visit Wind Cave National Park.

Cave tours are what bring most visitors to Wind Cave National Park. This park offers amazing tours of the cave throughout the spring, summer, and fall. If you hope to participate in a cave tour, it is essential that you purchase tickets in advance.

Some cave tours include the Garden of Eden Tour, the Natural Entrance Tour, and the Candlelight Tour. All tours are guided by a park ranger who teaches about how the caves were formed and the history of Wind Cave. 

Driving Tours

The Wind Cave Geology Driving Tour is an amazing way to see and learn about the geology of the park. The driving tour lasts between 60 and 90 minutes and is a self-guided tour that is offered year-round. The tour is 20 miles long, showcases the historic rock record, and teaches about the geologic history of the Black Hills. The Wind Cave Geology Tour gives visitors a way to explore a fascinating part of the park at their own pace. 

Hiking is an activity that can be enjoyed year-round at Wind Cave National Park. There are nearly 30 miles of hiking trails varying in difficulty and length. From easy walks to strenuous journeys, there is a hike available for every visitor, no matter your age or ability level. Some popular hikes include Rankin Ridge Nature Trail, Elk Mountain Nature Trail, Wind Cave Canyon Trail, Lookout Point, and Centennial Trail Loop. 

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is one of the best ways to explore the ponderosa woodlands and prairies throughout Wind Cave National Park. There are thousands of acres just waiting for riders to enjoy. The park doesn’t have facilities that provide horses, so you must bring your own or use a facility nearby. If you plan to ride in Wind Cave National Park, it is imperative that you obtain a free day permit ahead of time. 

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife is plentiful at Wind Cave National Park. Wildlife viewing is one of the top activities available year-round at this national park. Some of the iconic animals that make their home in Wind Cave National Park include bison, elk, and prairie dogs. Wind Cave National Park is actively working to conserve the American bison. There is an entire herd that can be followed through this national park.

Visiting during the fall months will allow visitors a sight of the male elk searching and bugling to attract mates. Prairie dog towns are a must-see when wildlife watching. There are tons of these adorable mammals sprinkled throughout the backcountry hiking trails.

Seeing the animals that make their home in Wind Cave National Park is an incredible opportunity that will create memories to last a lifetime. 

Wind Cave National Park is an exciting park with lots to see and do no matter what time of year you visit. If there are particular sights and activities you want to participate in, there may be better times to visit than others.

Best Time To Visit Wind Cave National Park for Ideal Weather

For ideal weather, plan a trip to Wind Cave National Park in September. The weather is comfortable for hiking and exploring through the park, and there typically isn’t a problem with too much rain during September. Another great part of visiting Wind Cave National Park in September is that the crowds have dissipated since school is returning to session. A September trip is the best time of year to visit if you are seeking ideal weather. 

Best Time To Visit Wind Cave National Park To Avoid the Crowds

A national park experience without a crowd is a dream come true for most visitors. If you want to visit Wind Cave National Park without the crowds, plan for a trip in early June. This is right before the summer crowds come in so that you can enjoy the park at your own pace with peace and quiet.

Best Time To Visit Wind Cave National Park for Wildlife

If you love viewing wildlife, you should plan a visit to Wind Cave National Park in April. An April visit guarantees exceptional sights of the wildlife that makes their home in the park. The temperatures are also comfortable, with a high of 59 degrees during the day. Dawn and dusk are opportune times to catch a glimpse of the animals in the park. 

Cheapest Time To Visit Wind Cave National Park

Traveling and saving money don’t usually go hand in hand, but that’s not the case with this national park vacation. The cheapest time to visit Wind Cave National Park is from mid to late September. This is when it is cheapest to fly, and the lodging rates are typically lower during this time of year. A September trip is a great way to be able to enjoy a national park vacation while going easy on your budget. 

Annual Events in Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park offers programs on a regular schedule throughout the entire year. There are also some events that take place in and near the park on an annual basis. Take a look at some of the exciting events offered in and near this national park to see if you’d like to plan your visit around them so that you can participate. 

Fall River Hot Air Balloon Festival

The Fall River Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place near Wind Cave National Park in Hot Springs, South Dakota. This event is a great way to see the park and the rest of the city from a bird’s eye view. This 3-day event has balloon launches from the nearby airport, local vendors, an art walk and chalk art showcase, as well as live music, sidewalk sales, and a Kid Zone for young visitors.

The Fall River Hot Air Balloon Festival is a great way to experience the culture and beauty of the city surrounding and encompassing Wind Cave National Park. 

Main Street Arts and Crafts Festival

The Main Street Arts and Crafts Festival takes place each year near Wind Cave National Park. This 3-day event occurs on the last full weekend of June each year. This is a lovely event where local artists and tradesmen can showcase their products, and guests can shop for a wide variety of art, jewelry, pottery, and more.

The Main Street Arts and Crafts Festival has food vendors and live entertainment. Visiting Wind Cave National Park during the weekend of the Main Street Arts and Crafts Festival is a great way to enjoy both park activities and the local culture. 

National Park Week

National Park Week takes place each year in April. This is an excellent week to plan a visit to Wind Cave National Park. There are no entry fees for any national park in the U.S. during this week, and there are additional programs, workshops, and activities to teach visitors about the culture and history of the park. Visiting Wind Cave National Park during National Park Week will allow visitors a unique experience that isn’t available throughout the rest of the year. 

There are several options for staying in and near Wind Cave National Park. The park has a couple of camping options, and there are some towns nearby with more traditional options.

Inside the Park

The only option for lodging is to set up camp under the stars in the backcountry or in the park’s only campground. Camping is an excellent way to experience Wind Cave National Park. Check out the camping options at this park to see if either would work for your park vacation. 

Backcountry Camping

Backcountry camping is available in the northwestern area of the park. If you choose to camp in the backcountry, you are able to choose from many different habitats, including riparian, prairie, and forest areas.

This type of camping is a primitive experience and a great way to soak in the majestic ambiance of Wind Cave National Park. Backcountry camping requires a free permit that can be obtained at the visitor center. The National Park Service offers a wealth of information about backcountry camping on its website, including maps, regulations, and safety tips.

Elk Mountain Campground

Elk Mountain Campground is comprised of ponderosa pine forest and open prairie. This campground is open year-round and has 62 campsites that are open to tent camping and RVs. These sites can be reserved in advance and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Amenities at Elk Mountain Campground include picnic tables, fire rings, and an amphitheater where many programs are held. From May to September, drinking water and flush toilets are available. If you plan to camp when water is unavailable, the camping fees are half-price.

Sleeping under the stars is an incredible way to experience the beauty and wonder of the southern Black Hills.

Towns Near Wind Cave National Park

There are a couple of towns near Wind Cave National Park that are excellent places to set up a home away from home during your park stay. These towns each have plenty to offer for lodging, dining, and recreation. Let’s take a look at the 2 closest towns to Wind Cave National Park to see if either would work for your vacation. 

Custer, South Dakota

Custer is a town just 20 minutes from Wind Cave National Park. This town is the oldest in the Black Hills and is a former mining town that is now the ideal place to set up a base camp for your national park vacation.  There is a variety of accommodations available; from budget-friendly motels to charming inns, there’s plenty to choose from when lodging in this town. 

The culinary scene is a paradise for foodies, with several restaurants serving local fare with unbeatable hospitality. There are fine dining restaurants, classic diners, and delis in this town, ready to treat your tastebuds to an unforgettable meal.

This town is in a convenient location for many major attractions. Guests are only a short drive from Mount Rushmore , the Crazy Horse Memorial , Custer State Park , and other exciting places to explore. Shopping enthusiasts love perusing the downtown gift shops, galleries, and boutiques. Adventure awaits in Custer as there are various opportunities for outdoor fun, like hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. 

Custer is just a hop, skip, and jump from Wind Cave National Park. This convenient town has so much to offer that visitors find themselves wanting to return again and again. 

Hot Springs, South Dakota

The closest town to Wind Cave National Park is Hot Springs. This town is a mere 7 miles from the park and has lots to offer to visitors wanting to make this their home base during their vacation. Guests can find a variety of places for lodging, dining, and recreation in this area. 

There is a long list of lodging options for guests to choose from. Whether you prefer staying in historic log cabins, a campground with amenities galore, a resort, or a traditional hotel, you can find exactly what you need in Hot Springs.

Food enthusiasts are in for a treat — there are breakfast diners, pizza parlors, steakhouses, bakeries, and ice cream shops around the town. No matter what you find yourself craving, you can rest assured that you will find something to hit the spot.

The town is in an incredible location for exploring the Black Hills of South Dakota. There are amazing activities year-round like canoeing, fishing, swimming, fishing, and cross-country skiing. Just a short ride from this town are amazing places to check out, like wild horse sanctuaries, the Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore, and Jewel Cave National Monument .

With its close proximity to Wind Cave National Park and countless opportunities for restoration and entertainment, Hot Springs makes a great place to stay during your vacation.

There are no restaurants in Wind Cave National Park, so if you want to eat in the park, you will need to bring all the fixings for a picnic. If picnicking isn’t your style, you can find plenty of restaurants near the park in the surrounding towns. Let’s take a look at some of the top-ranked restaurants near Wind Cave National Park. 

Big Time Pizza

Big Time Pizza is less than 10 miles from Wind Cave National Park in the city of Hot Springs. This restaurant is loved by locals and tourists alike and serves lunch and dinner. 

This family-owned restaurant uses the best ingredients to make its made-to-order pizzas and subs. The menu features an extensive list of specialty and custom-order pizzas and chicken wings, as well as an impressive beer and wine selection. Customers rave over the Buffalo Stampede, the Ultimate Supreme, and the All Meat Pizza.

Not only does Big Time Pizza have the best pizza around, but they also frequently have live music for your entertainment. For a great meal and a good time, make your way down to Big Time Pizza during your Wind Cave National Park vacation. 

Buffalo Dreamer

Buffalo Dreamer is a fine dining establishment that serves unique culinary creations for lunch and dinner. Guests are able to take a break from their park adventures and enjoy an amazing meal in the most relaxing environment. 

The menu features gluten-free, organic, and locally-sourced ingredients and specialties so that every diner has options, no matter what their nutrition needs are. Customers can’t say enough about the chef’s creations and rate the meals as some of the top meals they’ve ever had. Popular dishes at Buffalo Dreamer include Georgia O’Keefe’s Lamp Chops, Faroe Island Salmon, and the Bahn Mi Tacos. 

Buffalo Dreamer is less than 10 minutes from Wind Cave National Park in Hot Springs, making this a wonderful place to dine before, during, or after your park excursions. You may like it so well that you come back again and again during your park vacation. 

The Hitch Rail Bar and Restaurant

The Hitch Rail Bar and Restaurant is a top-rated restaurant in Pringle, South Dakota. Open for lunch and dinner daily, this restaurant is ready to serve its signature dishes that will leave you wanting seconds. 

The lunch and dinner menu features American classics like burgers, sloppy joes, and steaks, as well as cultural dishes like Indian tacos, chicken enchiladas, and lasagna. Some favorite meals of customers include prime rib, barbecue pork ribs, and chicken fried steak. 

The combination of convenience, affordable pricing, amazing service, and delicious dishes makes The Hitch Rail Bar and Restaurant an obvious choice for visitors of Wind Cave National Park. Be sure to check out this fantastic restaurant during your visit. 

The 1891 Steakhouse and Bistro

The 1891 Steakhouse and Bistro is in Hot Springs, just 10 minutes from Wind Cave National Park. This restaurant is located in the historic Red Rock River Resort and serves American fare with a French flair. 

The menu at The 1891 Steakhouse and Bistro features signature burgers, sandwiches, starters, incredible entrees, and an extensive wine and drink list. Popular dishes include surf and turf, New York strip steak, chicken Oscar, and scallops.

If you are in the mood to try something more formal for dinner while on your Wind Cave National Park vacation, give The 1891 Steakhouse and Bistro a try. Your tastebuds will be in paradise.

1. A New National Park

Wind Cave National Park was established on January 9, 1903, by President Theodore Roosevelt.

2. Noteworthy Numbers

Wind Cave National Park was the eighth national park in the US. It became a national park in 1903, but the National Park Service wasn’t established until 13 years later. 

3. First Park for a Cave

Wind Cave National Park was the first park created to protect a cave. 

4. First Explorer

Charlie Crary from Custer, South Dakota, squeezed his way through the Natural Entrance. He became Wind Cave’s first known explorer. He used candles to light his way and a string to mark his path. 

5. First True Explorer

While Charlie Crary was the first to go in and take a look at Wind Cave, the first true explorer was Alvin McDonald. He researched and studied the cave, recorded information about it, named the rooms and routes, and created maps. 

6. Cave Tours

The first cave tours began taking place in 1890. Alvin McDonald partnered with a man named John Stabler in 1892, and his children helped lead tours through the cave. 

7. Diverse Ecosystems

Wind Cave National Park has 2 diverse ecosystems present throughout its boundaries. The open prairie and the ponderosa pine woodland. Because of this diversity, there are many different types of animals that can be seen here. 

8. Record Numbers

Wind Cave is a complex maze type of cave, which means there are many interconnected passages running through it. Because of these passages, it is very difficult to map entirely. A total of 140 miles of passages have been mapped for Wind Cave, which makes this cave the sixth-longest mapped cave in the world. 

9. An Abundance of Animals

Wind Cave National Park is home to many animals, but some of the animals that steal the show when visitors come include the elk, bison, prairie dogs, and the black-footed ferret. Prairie dogs can be found in prairie dog towns in the backcountry. The black-footed ferret was reintroduced to the park in 2007. They love to eat prairie dogs, so visiting the prairie dog towns may reward you with sights of both of these unique animals. 

10. Fossils Galore

Due to the landscape and geology of Wind Cave National Park, many fossils have been uncovered and studied. Some of the fossils that have been found here include seashells, sea creatures, and large animal fossils like jaw bones, turtle shells, and more. 

Wind Cave National Park is a spectacular park with a vast array of sights and activities to enjoy. From wildlife viewing to cave exploration and from horseback riding to hiking, this amazing park has no shortage of adventure. Book your trip to Wind Cave National Park and discover what brings over a million visitors from around the world to this phenomenal park. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do the entry fees cost at wind cave national park.

There is no fee for entering Wind Cave National Park. There are fees if you choose to do a cave tour.

How many days should I spend at Wind Cave National Park?

It is recommended to visit Wind Cave National Park for 5 to 7 days. There is so much to explore at this national park, both above ground and below, so a 5- to 7-day trip will allow you to explore at a relaxed pace and check off all the things on your must-experience list.

Is there Wi-Fi available at Wind Cave National Park?

Wi-Fi is available at the visitor center at Wind Cave National Park. Cellular service and connection are not reliable elsewhere.

What is the weather like in Wind Cave National Park?

The weather varies throughout the year at Wind Cave National Park. Summer temperatures are warm and comfortable with clear conditions, while winter is frigid with snow and clouds. The low temperatures typically average 15 degrees, and the highs reach into the 70s.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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10 Tips for Visiting Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota

The 28,295 acres of Wind Cave National Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota are home to the 7th longest cave in the world, and the 3rd longest cave in America. The cave was discovered by Jesse and Tom Bingham in the early 1880s and 21 Native American tribes associated with the Wind Cave.  President Theodore Roosevelt established Wind Cave as the 8th National Park in 1903, naming it after the barometric winds at the entrance to the cave. There are 156.3 miles of passageways in Wind Cave and 95% of the world’s boxwork hangs inside the cave, along with 12 species of bats (although we didn’t see any on our visit).

We spent a summer morning on 4th of July weekend exploring the park and taking a Natural Entrance Cave tour and loved it! The park is fairly isolated, with no dining options, so plan ahead and bring food. Here are our 10 tips if you’re planning a visit to Wind Cave National Park .

1. Get there early, especially during peak summer season. When we arrived at 6:10am, we were 4th in line and there were literally HUNDREDS (no exaggeration) of people in line at 7:45am. (It was 4th of July weekend) As of summer 2021, there were only 20 tours a day, each limited to 30-40 people depending on the tour.

2. Most people explore Wind Cave National Park by taking a guided cave tour. However, there are many activities including:

Eight hiking trails , varying in length from 1.5 miles to 9 miles.  The easiest is the Wind Cave Canyon trail, just under two miles one way.  Check here for more information on trails and descriptions.

A driving tour , which includes roadside signage and historical and geological information.

Camping at Elk Mountain Campground (less than a mile from the Visitor Center) which includes 75 sites and is open from April through October.

Picnicking 1/4 mile north of Visitor Center and throughout the grounds. Be sure to carry out what you carry in.

3. There are several rangers who live inside the park for the peak summer season. Year round, rangers offer several programs and activities, such as talks on wildlife, plants, geology, and cave surveying; and prairie hikes. There are special programs during winter months geared towards younger children- find the schedule here . Kids of all ages can complete a Junior Ranger booklet and activities to earn a Junior Ranger badge .  

4. Know which tour you want to take. There is a small fee for all tours and the America the Beautiful pass is not accepted, except for the handicap passes.

Garden of Eden Tour is considered the easiest tour, lasting one hour and including a mile of walking and 150 stairs. Guests enter and exit the cave via elevator.

Natural Entrance Tour is considered a moderate tour and the most popular. The tour lasts 75 minutes and covers about 2/3 of a mile and 300 stairs. It begins with the cave’s largest natural opening and ends with an elevator ride back up to the ground level.

Fairgrounds Tour is the most strenuous tour, lasting 90 minutes and including 2/3 of a mile and 450 stairs. It includes a visit to both the middle and upper levels of the cave. Guests do enter and exit the cave via elevator.

Candlelight Tour is offered during summer months. It is a two hour tour that includes a lot of bending, stooping, and climbing stairs and it is lit only by candle light. 

5. Know what to expect on the guided cave tour. It is steep and very slippery at parts. Most of the tours include climbing down stairs. Visitors should be comfortable in tight spaces and be able to duck frequently to avoid hitting their heads (it became almost a song for people to cry out “watch your head” one after another as we went through the cave). There is no place to sit down once you enter the cave. While there is electricity in the cave and areas are lit well enough for visitors to see, at one point the guide will usually turn off the light for a brief moment to give everyone a feel for true darkness. The guide will provide fair warning, but be prepared. If you have concerns about claustrophobia, or fear the dark, or have knee or back issues, I would not go on a cave tour.

6. Know what you can and cannot bring on cave tours: Definitely wear sneakers or closed toe shoes and a sweatshirt, and bring a camera. No backpacks, food, drinks, pets, or really anything additional is allowed. Rangers are strict about this policy and check each guest before leaving for a cave hike.

7. Spend time in the Visitor Center (open from 8am to 4:30pm, with extended hours during the summer) and explore the exhibits that showcase the history of the cave and area. The Visitor Center also has indoor restrooms, water bottle filling stations, and a gift shop. The park recommends NOT using your GPS for directions to the Visitor Center- check here for specific directions.

8. Logistics: There is one, long parking lot for plenty of cars and trailers and the parking lot is one way. Restrooms are available inside the Visitor Center and campgrounds. Portapotties are available outside the Visitor Center for off hours. There are no dining options inside the park. Water fountains are located in the Visitor Center. Souvenirs and bottled water are available for purchase in the gift shop inside the Visitor Center. The park recommends NOT using your GPS for directions to the Visitor Center- check here for specific directions.

9. Keep an eye out for the wildlife that call the park home. Bison, elk, coyotes, prairie dogs, and black footed ferrets can all be seen throughout the park. The best time to view wildlife is usually dawn and dusk and the easiest way to see them is to drive the Wildlife Loop Road and Needles Highway.  Look for burrows for prairie dogs and coyotes on and near hiking trails. Do not get too close to prairie towns as you’ll be attacked by flees.

10.  Pick another nearby area to explore for the day: Custard State Park , Jewel Cave National Monument , and Mount Rushmore National Memorial are all less than an hour from Wind Cave and would be a lot of fun to explore. We loved Mount Rushmore – read our tips about visiting here .

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Follow along on our adventures on Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , and Pinterest .

New England based, part high school English teacher, part non profit founder, part road tripper who LOVES hopping in the family SUV to explore America. Our bucket list includes National Parks, MLB stadiums, presidential libraries, and eating wherever the locals eat!

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10 Comments

I take it you did not drive the back roads. No mention of the Bison Herd. Windcave Park is the best place to observe Prairie Dogs. IMHO

This looks like such a great trip! Thanks for all the tips and helpful hints, we can’t wait to explore South Dakota!!

This is a great review! I feel like I was there with your family and I loved all of the pictures! I am looking forward to visiting SD in the future and will add this to my list of places to visit!

This sounds so amazing – I would love to do a cave tour. I visited Mount Rushmore almost a decade ago and I had no idea Wind Cave was so close. Time to return to South Dakota! 🙂

This sounds like a great place to visit! I’m always so fascinated by caves.

I love visiting caves! These something so magical and otherworldly about being underground! Wind Cave National Park looks like an incredible place to visit. I’d love to see it in person one day. Thanks for the great guide!

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Alerts in effect, discover two parks in one.

Wind Cave National Park protects two very different worlds - one deep within the earth, the other a sunlit world of many resources. Bison, elk, and other wildlife roam the rolling prairie grasslands and forested hillsides of one of America's oldest national parks. Below the remnant island of intact prairie sits Wind Cave, one of the longest and most complex caves in the world.

Answers to frequently asked questions about viewing the cave.

Wind Cave has a vast surface to explore either with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, or driving loops.

During the winter, kids can join rangers to learn about nature through a variety of fun activities.

Fascinating stories of the geology, wildlife, and history of Wind Cave.

The 62-site Elk Mountain Campground is open year round. Payment is by credit or debit card only.

Learn about the park's most iconic animal, the American Bison.

Last updated: March 18, 2024

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26611 US Highway 385 Hot Springs, SD 57747

605 745-4600

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9 Top Things to do at Wind Cave National Park

Don’t miss the opportunity to head under the Black Hills. South Dakota features two caves within 31 miles of each other. Both National Park Service sites offer cave tours and are great for escaping the summertime heat. The Black Hills of South Dakota is a top destination for outdoor adventure and includes several national parks to discover. From Badlands National Park to Mount Rushmore National Memorial to Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, there’s a lot to see in the Black Hills. Here are the top things to do at Wind Cave National Park with kids.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do at Wind Cave National Park 

• Take a Cave Tour
• Go on the Scenic Drive
• See Wildlife
• Attend a Ranger Program

Wind Cave National Park At a Glance  

Why visit wind cave.

The South Dakota Badland offers a week of fun from national parks to outdoor adventure. Sometimes I like to add a cave tour (or in this case, two cave tours ) to my itinerary. Cave tours get you underground and explore its unique landscape that’s hidden under the surface.

Wind Cave National Park is named after the barometric winds at the cave’s entrance, which can predict the weather. With hiking, camping and a herd of bison, Wind Cave National Park is more than a cave tour.

Visitors can enjoy the scenic drive into the park and see some of its wildlife. Underground, Wind Cave’s boxwork, popcorn and frostwork are cave formations to find during your visit.

Caves with Kids? 

Cave tours are ideal for school-age kids who can explore without much assistance. However, cave tours do not allow babies to ride in carriers or strollers. Both are for safety reasons, like bumping heads and steep trails in the cave.

Younger kids might have issues with the dark. However, some really like that discoveries still happen as cave explorers go deeper into the caves and map each one.

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How to See the Wind Cave

With over 100 miles of passageways, portions of Wind Cave remain uncharted and only five percent have been discovered. The boxwork, popcorn and frostwork cave formations in Wind Cave are exceptional for all visitors, especially cave enthusiasts.  

Wind Cave National Park offers three basic tours: the Natural Entrance Tour, the Fairgrounds Tour and the Garden of Eden Tour. I’ve taken the Fairgrounds Tour and Natural Entrance Tour.

Note for Summer 2024

The elevators that serve the cave are being replaced in 2024, so cave tours are on hold from May until September 2024.

The Garden of Eden Tour

This is the least strenuous tour and is recommended for younger children and visitors with health or mobility concerns. This tour uses the elevator to enter and leave the tour. It includes 150 steps and covers .3 miles during the one-hour-long tour.

However, tourgoers will need to navigate trails that can be slick and poorly lit. If that sounds too strenuous, there is space in the Visitor Center to wait like others take the tour.

You can book this tour in advance. I recommend this for mixed groups.

The Natural Entrance Tour

This tour includes 300 steps, mostly down, lasts an hour and 15 minutes and covers a .6-mile route. I entered the cave through a man-made entrance next to the original and rode the elevator out. I enjoyed walking down into the cave as the first explorers did, it added to the feeling of adventure.

You can book this tour in advance. I recommend this tour for families.

The Fairgrounds Tour

This is the most strenuous tour, lasting an hour and a half and including 450 steps. For this tour, we rode the elevator down and back up afterward. My kids, 13, 12 and 8, loved the tour. All ages are welcome as long as they can walk the entire .6-mile route.

You can book this tour in advance.

The Candlelight Tour

Explore a cave like explorers, by candlelight. This tour includes 424 steps and covers .6 miles along the Blue Grotto Route. This section doesn’t offer lights and lasts 2 hours.

Tourgoers will need to make reservations for this summer-only tour. It requires participants to wear long pants and lace-up shoes.

This tour is a small group and everyone must be 10 years or older.

Wild Cave Tour

This is a four-hour introduction to cave exploring, including crawling and climbing off the trail. Tourgoers will spend much of their time exploring the cave on their hands and knees. This portion of the cave doesn’t offer lighting.

This tour is a small group and participants must be 16.

Accessibility Tour

For those with mobility concerns, Wind Cave National Park offers an Accessible Tour. It is a 30-minute tour with no steps. It uses the elevator and there is parking near the elevator building. Participants will see the famed boxwork on this tour.

Reservations must be made in advance as this tour isn’t scheduled daily. Call the visitor center at (605) 745-4600 to arrange.

Tickets can be reserved online in advance .  Admission for Natural Entrance and Fairground tours: adults 16 and older is $17, kids 6 to 16 are $9 and kids under 5 are $1. The Garden of Eden admission for adults 16 and older is $15, kids 6 to 15 are $8 and kids under 5 are $1. The Candlelight Tour is $17 for 16 and older. The Wild Cave Tour is $46 per person.

Some tickets are available for the day of tours, though most sell out within a few hours in the morning.

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Scenic Drives  in Wind Cave 

Explore the native grassland prairies at Wind Cave National Park. It’s the largest protected area in the U.S. With herds of bison, pronghorn and prairie dog towns, my kids love driving through the park. Take Highway 87 as an alternative route to or from Custer, South Dakota, for a scenic drive.

Wind Cave Geology Driving Tour— A 20-mile (32 km) scenic drive with pullouts to learn about the area’s geology.  

Hiking in Wind Cave  

Find 30 miles of hiking through Wind Cave National Park.  

Prairie Vista Trail —A 1.0-mile (1.6 km) pet-friendly round-trip loop trail.  

Elk Mountain Campground Trail —A 1.0-mile (1.6 km) pet-friendly round-trip loop trail.  

Rankin Ridge —A 1.0-mile (1.6 km) round-trip hike loop trail.

Wind Cave Canyon —A 1.8-mile ( 2.9 km)   is a former gravel road.  

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Wildlife viewing  in wind cave national park.

You can find lots of animals within the park, though dawn and dusk are the best wildlife viewing times. The Park Rangers can also point out areas that offer the best chance to see wildlife.

• Prairie dogs
• Black-footed ferret

Horseback riding is permitted in Wind Cave National Park. Permits can be picked up at the visitor center.

Ranger Programs

As a popular destination in South Dakota, seasonal ranger programs are offered during the summer season. Centered around the Elk Mountain Amphitheater, the selection changes, though. There is a Junor Ranger program along with evening Ranger programs.

Picnicking at Wind Cave

Find a Picnic Area close to the visitor center with seven tables along with a couple of charcoal grills.  

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Camping at Wind Cave National Park

Elk mountain campground  .

• First-come, first-served  
• 62 sites, RVs at 48 sites
• Potable water (Summer only)   with flush toilets (summer only) and vault toilets rest of the year.

History of Wind Cave  

The Bingham Brothers discovered it in 1881 when the wind blew off their hats. Due to its vastness, Wind Cave has its own air pressure system that tries to equal the air pressure on the surface.

In 1903, Theodore Roosevelt signed legislation creating Wind Cave National Park, the seventh national park in the National Park System and the first cave protected as a national park. In 1913, bison from the New York Zoological Gardens were sent to Wind Cave to reestablish bison in the region.  

Civilian Conservation Corps

A group of young men arrived at Wind Cave National Park in 1934. The Civilian Conservation Corps, part of President Roosevelt’s Works Progress Program, worked on conservation projects across the U.S.  

During their tenure, the men of the CCC dug the 208-foot elevator shaft, constructed concrete stairs, and built a fence to contain the animals. They also added lighting to the cave and replaced the stairs at the natural entrance.  

Where’s Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is located 58 miles south of Rapid City, South Dakota, and has a regional airport with commercial flights. The park is 10 miles north of Hot Springs, South Dakota, along U.S. Highway 385 N. It’s free to enter though cave tours require tickets. The park is open every day, all day.  

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Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel cave at a glance  , what to do at jewel cave.

As the third longest cave in the world, it features 210 miles of mapped passages. Local prospectors discovered Jewel Cave in 1900 after blasting dynamite to enlarge the entrance and discovered a cavern covered with calcite crystals. It is a calcite-covered cave so it sparkles.

• Head to the visitor center
• Take a cave tour. 
• Hike above ground at Jewel Cave. 
• Become a Junior Ranger

Jewel Cave Visitor Center

All cave tours depart from the Jewel Cave Visitor Center, where you can purchase tour tickets, grab maps, and pick up Junior Ranger booklets. You can also find an interpretive area.

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. late April to late September. Open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for the rest of the year. Restrooms are located in the visitor center and none are located in the cave itself.  

Cave Tours at Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave National Monument offers two basic tours, the Scenic Tour and the Discovery Tour. Tickets are available in advance for cave tours via Recreation.gov.

The Scenic Tour

The Scenic Tour is the most popular and strenuous since visitors will have to navigate 732 steps up and down metal scaffolding. Since kids must navigate the stairs, it’s advised that they be at least six years old. Kids can’t be carried during the Scenic Tour.

The Discovery Talk

Get an introduction to Jewel Cave without navigating 700+ steps. just 15 steps. A park ranger explains the types of calcite that give Jewel Cave its name and how the cave was formed.  

Historic Lantern Tour

Offered in the summer only, this tour uses lanterns and it’s similar to a cave tour of the 1930s. This tour includes 600 steps.

Wild Caving Tour

Offered in the summer only, this tour lasts 3 to 4 hours. Participants must to 16-years-old and navigate small spaces.  

We didn’t make it to the Jewel Cave Visitor Center in time to get tickets for the Scenic Tour and took the Discovery Tour instead. Book in advance for summer travel.

The Scenic Tour and Lantern Tour are $16 for adults ( 16+), kids 6 to 15 are $8, and kids under 5 are $1. The Discovery Tours are $6 for adults 16 and older, kids 6 to 15 are $3, and kids under 5 are $1. The Wild Cave Tour is $45 per person (16 and older only).

Hiking at Jewel Cave National Monument

Find three self-guided hiking trails.  

A Walk on the Roof Trail —A .25-mile (.4 km) round trip trail at the Visitor Center.

Canyons Trail —A 3.5-mile (5.6 km) loop trail from the Visitor Center through Lithograph Canyon and the Historic Area.  

Hell Canyon Trail —A 5.5-mile (8.8 km) trail traversing Hell Canyon.

Kids at Wind Cave and Jewel Cave

Earn a Junior Ranger Badge at both Wind Cave National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument. Cave tours aren’t required to earn a Junior Ranger Badge but kids need to attend a ranger program.

BARK program

Wind Cave National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument welcome pets as long as they practice the principles of the BARK program.

B– Bag waste and dispose of it in the trash

A– Always leash your dog for their safety and others

R– Respect wildlife

K– Know where you can go

Note: Pets aren’t allowed on Cave Tours.

Guide to Junior Ranger Badges You Can Earn at Home

Historic area of jewel cave  .

See a cabin built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1935. It was used as the first park headquarters. The Historic Entrance is down a stone-step path.  

Also, find picnic tables at the Historic Area. Open in the summer only.  

Wildflowers at Jewel Cave National Monument

Find any number of the 393 plant species. The Visitor Center, Historic Area and along the trails are the best places to see wildflowers from late Spring until Fall.

Animals of Jewel Cave

Explore the topside of Jewel Cave and look for animals. Dawn and dusk are the best times for animal viewing.  

• Bats—Nine different species
• Big horn sheep
• Mountain lion
• Long-tailed weasel

Where to Eat at Jewel Cave

Jewel Cave National Monument doesn’t feature a lodge with dining and lodging. This monument is a day-use park only.   Find two picnic areas at Jewel Cave—one near the visitor center and the other at the historic area.  

History of Jewel Cave  

Local prospectors discovered Jewel Cave in 1900 after blasting dynamite to enlarge the entrance and discovered a cavern covered with calcite crystals. Proclaimed a national monument in 1908, the cave is the third largest mapped cave in the world.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) arrived in 1935. They built a three-room cabin and trails with steps for the cave entrance.  

Where’s Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave National Monument is 53 miles southwest of Rapid City, South Dakota, and 13 miles west of Custer, South Dakota, along South Dakota Highway 16.

Jewel Cave Visitor Center is open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from mid-March to the end of November and is closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 25. Admission is free to the park, and it is only charged for cave tours.

Jewel Cave National Monument is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Memorial Day until Labor Day with reduced hours during the rest of the year. It is a day-use-only NPS site.  

Guide to NPS Passes

Bats and white-nose syndrome.

If you plan on visiting either cave in South Dakota, you can not wear any clothing, including shoes, that have been in another cave due to White-Nose Syndrome. A ranger will stop all cave visitors at both locations and ask.

White-nose syndrome kills hibernating bat colonies across the U.S. and Canada. This fungus thrives in low temperatures and high humidity and has killed 6 million bats since its discovery in 2006.

Know Before You Go

• Don’t try to visit both caves on the same day in the summer, tickets sell out for the day’s tours in the morning.
• Tickets are sold first-come, first-serve.
• Take a jacket for the cave tours, the average temperature in both caves is around 50F.  
• Backpacks and purses are prohibited on cave tours, leave them in your car.
• Strollers are prohibited in Wind Cave and Jewel Cave.  
• Walkways are dimly lit and can be slippery; wear appropriate shoes.  

Consideration for brands mentioned.

Catherine Parker has a passion for travel and seen all 50 U.S. States. As a former flight attendant with one of the largest airlines, there isn't a North American airport that she hasn't landed in at least once. Since clipping her professional wings after 9/11, she combines her love of the open road with visiting architectural and cultural icons. She is based out of Central Texas dividing her time between writing and restoring a pair of 100-year-old houses. She shares her life with her three kids and her husband.

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