Nature, History & Open Skies

The Black Hills and Badlands region of South Dakota welcomes every kind of traveler — and leaves a lasting impression on all of them. Stand before Mount Rushmore, drive a winding scenic byway, wander a historic Old West town, or immerse yourself in living Lakota culture. Five national parks and monuments, thundering bison herds and Wild West legends — there’s no place quite like it.

Granite giants

Admire world-famous granite landmarks featuring presidential carvings and Lakota living legacy.

Natural beauty galore

Explore protected parks, scenic highways and two of South Dakota’s most captivating landscapes.

Western heritage

Discover Deadwood’s gold rush history and long-lasting Western traditions across the Black Hills.

Peaks to Painted Plains

Major Monuments

  • See iconic presidential carvings etched into granite, honoring some of the USA’s most storied leaders.

  • Journey underground through one of the world’s largest cave systems and hidden wonders.

  • Witness history in the making as sculptors carve the world’s largest mountain sculpture – in honor of the Lakota warrior – from solid granite.

Vast Natural Wonders

  • Explore pine-covered mountains, lakes and trails in this expansive outdoor playground.

  • Uncover cinematic views of buttes, pinnacles and canyons shaped over millions of years.

  • Wind along scenic roads where granite “needles” frame encounters with roaming wildlife.

Experiences

Spearfish Canyon in the Black Hills of South Dakota; Credit: Travel South Dakota

Roughlock Falls

Chase cascading waterfalls along scenic trails tucked within Spearfish Canyon’s limestone cliffs.

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Custer State Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup

Witness cowboys safely round up over 1,000 bison each September in this iconic Western tradition.

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Main Street in Deadwood, South Dakota

Historic Deadwood

Step into Wild West history in this preserved gold rush town filled with legends and family fun.

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Black Hills Powwow in Rapid City, South Dakota; Credit: Travel South Dakota

Cultural Celebrations

Connect with Lakota history and culture through powwows, storytelling and artisan crafts.

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Dinosaur Park in Rapid City, South Dakota; Credit: Visit Rapid City

Dinosaur Park

Climb hillside trails to see giant dinosaur sculptures overlooking Rapid City since 1936.

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Trip Ideas & Itineraries

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Badlands National Park in South Dakota; Credit: SD Tourism

Black Hills & Badlands

Visit website Experience the Black Hills & Badlands