Are you traveling with your favorite furry friend and wondering if Wind Cave National Park is dog-friendly? You’re probably excited to bring your dog along, so let’s talk about your dog-friendly options at Wind Cave.
Wind Cave National Park does not allow dogs in the cave, so you will not be able to tour the cave together. You will find some dog-friendly areas around the park, but you’ll want to make arrangements for your dog if you’re hoping to see the cave.
My name is Ash, and I’m a former park ranger. Although Wind Cave is a small national park, it’s historic and unique — I can’t wait to help you plan your dream trip here!
Let’s talk about the best places to take your dog in Wind Cave National Park!
Where Can I Go With My Dog in Wind Cave?
Dogs are allowed in the following areas:
Elk Mountain Campground
The Elk Mountain Campground allows pets, so if you’re hoping to stay overnight at Wind Cave National Park, you’re in luck! Just remember that there are a few rules to follow while you’re camping:
- Dogs are required to be on a 6-foot leash at all times
- Dogs cannot make excessive noise
- You must pick up after your dog
- Your dog can’t be left unattended or tied to an object while you’re out exploring the park
Learn more about the Elk Mountain Campground here.
Grassy Areas Around the Visitor Center
Dogs aren’t permitted inside the visitor center, but leashed pets are welcome to enjoy the grassy areas around it.
The Praire Vista Trail and the Elk Mountain Campground Trail
Although most trails at Wind Cave typically aren’t pet-friendly, the Prairie Vista Trail and the Elk Mountain Campground Trail are!
Each of these trails is a 1-mile loop, and you’ll love spending time out here with your dog. Be sure to keep an eye out for ticks and rattlesnakes while you hike.
Always clean up after your dog so that these areas continue to be dog-friendly!
Dogs are not allowed in the following areas:
Ranger-led Programs and Cave Tours
Dogs are not permitted on any cave tour or ranger-led program in Wind Cave National Park. If you want to go into the cave during your visit, make arrangements with a local kennel or leave your dog in a dog-friendly area with a member of your party.
Public Buildings
Although your dog is welcome on the grassy areas around the visitor center, they are not able to go inside any public buildings in the park.
Hiking Trails or Anywhere in the Backcountry
Other than the hikes mentioned above, dogs cannot be on any other trails in the park or in the backcountry.
If you’re looking for fabulous dog-friendly hiking options near Wind Cave National Park, you’ll find plenty of amazing options in Custer State Park.
Why Can’t I Take My Dog Hiking in Wind Cave National Park?
The most important reason a national park is established is to preserve and protect the most beautiful places in America. An important part of fulfilling this charge is by keeping the native wildlife safe and healthy and avoiding altering their natural habitat and behaviors.
Pets can transmit diseases to the wildlife in Wind Cave National Park, which can lead to sickness and death of the animals that live here naturally. And vice versa….your dog can also get sick from the wildlife in the park!
Dogs are also known to chase or scare the animals that call this park home, which can alter their behaviors and cause them to become stressed or aggressive. Pets leave behind “predator scents” that can change the behavior of the local wildlife.
Please join the NPS in their efforts to take better care of the outdoor spaces, including the local wildlife, by following the pet regulations.
Traffic and crowding in the Black Hills can be terrible.
Did you know that it’s common for parking lots to be full and sights to be packed with people, especially during the busy summer season?
Are you hoping to see the best sights without getting stuck in traffic, circling parking lots, or being surrounded by people?
Stay ahead of the crowds with this South Dakota National Parks Itinerary. You will see all the can’t-miss spots, plus get lodging and dining guides, driving directions, and insider tips!
Where Can I Find the Best Kennel Near Wind Cave?
If you’re hoping to take a guided tour of Wind Cave, you can take your dog to a nearby kennel. The closest kennel option is in the town of Hot Springs, located about 20 minutes away.
The Fall River Veterinary Clinic is a great kennel option in Hot Springs! This clinic is highly rated by locals and will take good care of your dog (and other animals) while you’re at the park.
If you’re staying in Rapid City and just taking a day trip down to Wind Cave, you can take your dog to the Safe Haven Pet Resort. Here you’ll have several boarding options for your pet, including private rooms and supervised playtime!
What Are Some Dog-Friendly Hotels Near Wind Cave?
The only lodging you’ll find inside Wind Cave National Park is the Elk Mountain Campground, which allows pets.
But, if you’d prefer to stay in a room instead of a tent, you’ll want to book a hotel room in the nearby towns of Custer or Hot Springs.
The Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn is a great place to stay in Custer — you can visit Wind Cave for the day and still have a nice room to stay in after you’ve finished exploring the park.
Lefty’s Hideout is another good dog-friendly option in Custer. This apartment is located close to Wind Cave, Mount Rushmore, and Custer State Park and is highly rated. You can bring your pet to this apartment for $25 a night.
The city of Hot Springs is just a few miles south of Wind Cave National Park, and the Baymont by Wyndham Hot Springs is a great option for you and your dog.
You can also check out the Super 8 in Hot Springs for another pet-friendly option.
What Happens If I Take My Dog Somewhere He’s Not Allowed in Wind Cave?
You will receive a citation for no less than $75, but it could be more depending on the infraction.
Park rangers and park volunteers patrol the hiking trails, roads, and viewpoints in Wind Cave National Park regularly.
What If I Bring My Service Dog to Wind Cave?
Service dogs that are recognized by the ADA are allowed to accompany their owners throughout the entire park. A service dog must be specifically trained to perform tasks related to the owner’s disability.
Emotional support, therapy, or comfort animals do not qualify as service animals in Wind Cave National Park and will be required to follow all pet regulations.
Have an amazing time with your dog in Wind Cave National Park!
More Wind Cave Trip Planning Information
South Dakota Parks Itinerary — a detailed hour-by-hour sightseeing schedule.
How to Get to Wind Cave — the best airports and roads in the area.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Wind Cave? — itinerary ideas.
The Best Time to Visit — what to expect during each month of the year.
Weather, Hours, and Closures — important weather info and common closures.
Where Should I Stay? — the best options in and around the park.
All About Camping — learn about the park’s campgrounds and how to get a site.
5 Things You Can’t Miss on Your First Visit to Wind Cave — the top 5 spots.
The Best Easy Hikes — the perfect trails for kids, wheelchairs, and beginners.
Best Things to Do — activities for every adventurer.
The Ultimate Wind Cave Trip Planning Guide — everything you need to know.
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