Badlands · August · South Dakota

Badlands National Park in August

August is a good month to visit Badlands National Park. Expect peak crowds. Highs average 85°F and lows 64°F, with about 1.62 inches of rain.

August gets a good rating at Badlands. The very best months are May–Jun, Sep–Oct.

Full park guideAll parks in August
RatingGood
CrowdsPeak crowds
Avg high / low85°F / 64°F
Rain1.62 in

What to expect

August is good at Badlands. Hot, often over 90°F, with severe thunderstorms. Most visitors come now.

Local tip

Pair it with Wind Cave, Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park in the Black Hills, about an hour away.

Good to know

  • Best months overall: May–Jun, Sep–Oct.
  • Closest airport: Rapid City (RAP), about 1 hour.
  • Before you go: Sage Creek Rim Road is unpaved and can be impassable when wet. Check current conditions on nps.gov.

2-day Badlands itinerary · Packing list

Questions

Is August a good time to visit Badlands National Park?

August is a good month to visit Badlands National Park. Expect peak crowds. Highs average 85°F and lows 64°F, with about 1.62 inches of rain.

What is the weather like in Badlands National Park in August?

Highs average 85°F and lows 64°F, with about 1.62 inches of rain. August is rated good for visiting.

How crowded is Badlands National Park in August?

August brings peak crowds to Badlands National Park. Go early in the day and book lodging ahead.