Where is Badlands National Park Located?

by Mike Virgintino

Overview

Badlands National Park is located just south of Interstate 90 in the southwest portion of South Dakota. If driving east to west, you will come across a time change between the community of Murdo and the park as the clock moves from Central to Mountain time. Badlands National Park's formal address is 25216 Ben Reifel Road, Interior, South Dakota, 57750.
Directions

To get to Badlands National Park in South Dakota, drive along Interstate 90 before turning onto Route 240. Interstate 90 goes through Sioux Falls, Mitchell (home of the famous Corn Palace) and various small towns before reaching Exit 131. That exit empties onto Route 240. Head south on Route 240, which leads to the park.

Time Frame

The distance from Sioux Falls to Exit 131 is approximately 250 miles and driving time is between three and four hours.
From Sturgis

If using Sturgis, South Dakota, as a starting point, pass through Rapid City and various small towns along Interstate 90 until reaching Wall. Use Exit 110 for the Route 240 turnoff that heads south to the park. It is about 82 miles from Sturgis to Wall, a drive that will take about one hour and 20 minutes.
Stop at Murdo

The city of Murdo is located at the crossroads of Interstate 90 and Highway 83 in the middle of South Dakota. A key attraction is The Big Variety Show that is located at the Pioneer Auto Show, with more than 250 collectible cars, motorcycles, tractors, music boxes, toys, arcade games, dolls and lunch boxes.
Park Attractions

See the black-tailed prairie dogs at Roberts Prairie Dog Town, which is located in the northern part of the park and west of the Pinnacles Entrance on Route 240. The best time of day to see these creatures is as the sun rises. The spring floral display is visible from May through June. Summer and fall blooms also dot the park's landscape.