2 national parks in South Dakota

National Parks in South Dakota

South Dakota has 2 national parks. Here's when each one is at its best, and the months that work for seeing several on one trip.

May, June, September and October are the best overall for South Dakota's parks. Badlands: May–Jun, Sep–Oct; Wind Cave: May–Jun, Sep–Oct.

Season calendar

Park	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Badlands
Wind Cave

South Dakota · Best May–Jun, Sep–Oct

Striped spires, mixed-grass prairie and one of the world's richest fossil beds.

South Dakota · Best May–Jun, Sep–Oct

A labyrinth cave beneath bison prairie, with rare boxwork formations.

3 parks · 4+ days · Best Jun, Sep, May

Badlands spires, a cave under bison prairie and wild horses in North Dakota.

North Dakota · Best Jun–Sep

Colorado · Best Jul–Sep

Wyoming & Montana & Idaho · Best Jun, Sep

Wyoming · Best Jun, Sep

How many national parks are in South Dakota?

South Dakota has 2 national parks: Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park.

When is the best time to visit national parks in South Dakota?

May, June, September and October are the best overall for South Dakota's parks. Badlands: May–Jun, Sep–Oct; Wind Cave: May–Jun, Sep–Oct.

Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.