Are you planning a trip to South Dakota and wondering if Badlands National Park is dog-friendly? You’re probably excited to bring your dog along, so let’s talk about your dog-friendly options in Badlands.
Badlands National Park is not a dog-friendly national park if you’re hoping to hike the most popular trails. However, there are some pet-friendly areas, such as scenic drives, campsites, and certain backcountry hikes.
My name is Ash, and I’m a former park ranger. I have spent a ton of time exploring the Rapid City area, and I can’t wait to help you plan your visit.
Let’s talk about the best places to take your dog in Badlands National Park!
Where Can I Go With My Dog in Badlands?
Dogs are allowed in the following areas:
Campgrounds
Badlands has two campgrounds, both of which allow dogs. If you want to bring your dog to your campsite, please be aware of the following:
- 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 your camping options here.
Parking Lots and Roads
Your leashed dog can be with you in any of the parking lots in Badlands. However, they can’t be left in the car while you hike (it gets too hot). You and your dog can enjoy the views from the parking areas as long as you don’t venture down a trail.
Badlands has a couple of lovely scenic drives you can enjoy with your dog. I recommend driving the park loop road from the Pinnacles Entrance to the Northeast Entrance — you can see a lot of amazing things from this road! Another option is to drive the Sage Creek Rim Road, which is a dirt road near the Pinnacles Entrance.
Picnic Areas
If you want to enjoy a picnic lunch with your dog, you can do so at the Big Foot Pass Picnic Area or the Conata Picnic Area. You’ll also find picnic tables at both visitor centers.
Pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Old Northeast Road
You can walk along the Old Northeast Road (just north of the Cliff Shelf Trail — see map here) with your dog! This road is an active ranch road, meaning that you’ll likely pass by a variety of animals or animal tracks, including deer, cattle, and rabbits.
The Old Northeast Road is less crowded than other parts of the park, so you can see some beautiful rock formations with your dog and enjoy the solitude! Be aware that the gravel can get really hot during the summer months, and you may encounter rattlesnakes as you explore the park.
Always clean up after your dog so that this area continues to be dog-friendly!
Dogs are not allowed in the following areas:
Trails and Wilderness Areas
Dogs are not allowed on any trails and wilderness areas in Badlands National Park. You can’t carry your dog in a backpack or hold him in your arms — simply put, your dog cannot be on any trails in this park.
Badlands has a large concentration of prairie dog colonies and other wildlife, so please respect the native wildlife by keeping your pets off the trails and out of the wilderness areas.
Public Buildings
Dogs are not allowed in Badlands’ visitor centers, the Cedar Pass Lodge, and any other public buildings in the national park.
Why Can’t I Take My Dog Hiking in Badlands 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 Badlands 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 South Dakota Parks 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 Badlands?
The nearest place to find boarding for your dog is in Rapid City, about 1 hour from Badlands National Park.
You’ll find several great options in Rapid City, such as the Keep Waggin’ Ranch, where your dog is guaranteed one-on-one time, outside time, and treats as part of their kennel service.
You could also look at the Safe Haven Pet Resort. They offer all sorts of services for your dog, including grooming, boarding, daycare, and even a wide variety of shopping options in case you need anything for your dog during your stay!
What Are Some Dog-Friendly Hotels Near Badlands?
The Cedar Pass Lodge in Badlands National Park does not allow pets, so you’ll need to look outside the park for pet-friendly lodging if you don’t want to camp.
The closest town to Badlands is Interior, which does have one pet-friendly accommodation: Badlands Budget Host. This motel lets you bring your dog with you for a $20 fee as long as you let them know beforehand.
If you’re willing to stay a bit farther away from the park, you’ll have plenty more options in Rapid City. The Sleep Inn & Suites in Rapid City allows pets for $20 per pet per night and also offers free breakfast.
You can also stay at the Hotel Alex Johnson, a nicer hotel that allows pets. You’ll find lots of amenities here in addition to its prime location near Mount Rushmore, including free wifi, two restaurants on-site, and free shuttle service to the airport.
What Happens If I Take My Dog Somewhere He’s Not Allowed in Badlands?
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 Badlands National Park regularly.
What If I Bring My Service Dog to Badlands?
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 Badlands National Park and will be required to follow all pet regulations.
Thanks for being here — I’m excited for you to explore Badlands National Park with your dog!
More Badlands Trip Planning Information
South Dakota Parks Itinerary — a detailed hour-by-hour sightseeing schedule.
How to Get to Badlands — the best airports and roads in the area.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Badlands? — 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.
8 Things You Can’t Miss on Your First Visit — the top 8 spots.
The Best Easy Hikes — the perfect trails for kids, wheelchairs, and beginners.
The Best Things to Do — activities for every adventurer.
The Ultimate Badlands Trip Planning Guide — everything you need to know.
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