Badlands Motel and Campground

The Badlands National Park looms large to the north. The rugged, unique landscape draws adventurers from around the world. Encompassing around 244,000 acres, there are several miles of hiking trails that lead to unique geological features that are not seen anywhere else in the world. Because this region is arid, it’s highly advised that hikers are well-prepared for extreme weather. Freshwater is rarely found. Bare of trees, the sun is harsh and merciless. Hikers should bring plenty of water, sunglasses, hats, and use sunscreen generously. In an arid desert region, wildlife can seem few and far in between. It helps to know where to look, though. Many small-game mammals like prairie dogs and rabbits dig burrows where they hide from the daytime heat. Larger critters like bobcats and bighorn sheep prefer the shelter of rocky outcroppings. Bison roam the open, flat prairie region of the Badlands. Wherever there is fresh grass, that’s the most likely spot to find bison. Photographers and nature lovers will enjoy observing the animals in their natural habitat. A few thousand years ago, there were many more animals in this part of the United States. The Badlands has one of the richest fossil sites in the world. Remains of the three-toed horse, saber-toothed cat, and rhinoceros have been found in this region, and paleontologists suspect there are many more discoveries yet to be made. All visitors should leave any fossil finds where they found it and report it. Though bicycles are not permitted on the trails, they are welcomed on gravel paths and paved roads. The scenic roads have hairpin turns, which can be both thrilling and challenging, particularly on a downhill stretch. One route passes through a region that’s frequently populated by bison. If a biker encounters a bison, they should avoid it the best they can, and if possible, use a car as a cover.