Operating Hours
Open year-round.

Visitation
Highest mid-June through Sept.; lowest mid-Nov. through March.

Permits
There is no formal system of backcountry permits or reservations; all backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. You may camp anywhere that is at least 1/2 mile from any road or trail and not visible from park roads. No fires.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: Ben Reifel Visitor Center, located at Cedar Pass, has exhibits, sales area, film and park headquarters. White River Visitor Center, located in the Stronghold District, is open from June to late August.

Programs: Offered from mid-June through Labor Day. Include walks, talks and slide programs. Check park newspaper or a visitor center for schedule. A reduced schedule is available on weekends in April and May.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food/Supplies: Cedar Pass Lodge has a restaurant open mid-April through mid-October. Supplies available on a limited basis in Interior, 3 miles from the park.

Visitor Impact
Check at visitor center for road conditions and weather forecast. No open campfires are allowed. Although Badlands National Park has an open use policy that includes exploration of park features, it is recommended that visitors do not climb on the buttes for their own safety and to reduce scarring on the soft, erodable formations.

Additional Information
Because of hot temperatures, and lack of shade, always carry water. When hiking, 2 quarts per person per two-hour hike is recommended.