Last updated: June 21, 2024
Thing to Do
Visit the White River Visitor Center
The White River Visitor Center is the main facility in the South Unit of the park. Be sure to stop by to pick up maps, enjoy museum exhibits, and chat with rangers about the significance of the Badlands and treaties in Lakota heritage.
Details
Duration
15-60 Minutes
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are prohibited in the White River Visitor Center unless they are a certified service animal. Emotional support animals are not service animals and are not allowed in the visitor center.
Pets are permitted in Badlands National Park with some restrictions. Pets must be kept on a leash no more than six feet in length at all times. Pets are only permitted in developed areas, such as campgrounds and picnic areas, and other areas open to motor vehicles, such as gravel and paved roadways, roadway corridors, and parking lots. Pets are prohibited from hiking trails, public buildings (i.e. visitor centers), and backcountry areas, including the Badlands Wilderness Area, and areas with prairie dog colonies. Pet etiquette dictates always cleaning up animal waste and disposing of it in trash receptacles.
Pets are permitted in Badlands National Park with some restrictions. Pets must be kept on a leash no more than six feet in length at all times. Pets are only permitted in developed areas, such as campgrounds and picnic areas, and other areas open to motor vehicles, such as gravel and paved roadways, roadway corridors, and parking lots. Pets are prohibited from hiking trails, public buildings (i.e. visitor centers), and backcountry areas, including the Badlands Wilderness Area, and areas with prairie dog colonies. Pet etiquette dictates always cleaning up animal waste and disposing of it in trash receptacles.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
The White River Visitor Center is open seasonally, typically May through October.
Time of Day
Day
The White River Visitor Center is typically open from 8am-5pm.
Accessibility Information
The White River Visitor Center includes ramp entrances and spacious museum exhibits for those who use wheelchairs.
Ask rangers at the front desk about audio-described and text-only brochures.
Certified service animals are the only animals allowed in the visitor center. Emotional support animals are not service animals and are not allowed in the building.
NPS Photo
Image Gallery
NPS Photo
The White River Visitor Center in the South Unit is a great place to visit if you want to explore the cultural significance of Badlands National Park. You can speak with rangers about the Badlands in Lakota heritage, learn about the history of the area through museum exhibits, pick up maps, and get your passport stamped.
Rangers at the White River Visitor Center offer impromptu historical and cultural talks and programs. Ask a ranger if there is a program being offered when you stop by!
Backcountry camping is not permitted in the South Unit. More information on backcountry camping in the park can be found here.