South Dakota’s Wind Cave National Park is comprised of two worlds, the above ground and the underground. Each offers guest a wide range of things to do and see while visiting this amazing area. Whether you like camping, hiking, or simply sightseeing, you’ll find it here.
The Visitor Center
The Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center is a great place to begin. Here one discovers three exhibit rooms that focus on the cave’s early history, formations, and exploration. Be sure to watch the 18 minute movie; “Wind Cave: One Park, Two Worlds.” This is a great introduction to the park and all it has to offer its visitors. The Visitor Center is open every day except Christmas, New Year’s, and Thanksgiving.
Cave Tours
These guided tours allow guests to explore the beauty of the Wind Cave National Park underground world up close. The Natural Entrance Cave Tour, Garden of Eden Cave Tour, and the Fairgrounds Cave Tour all last from one to one and a half hours. Visitors will get to hear about the cave’s history as well as see the many formations that call this place home. Specialty tours are offered throughout the year.
The Trails
The above ground world at Wind Cave National Park can be explored by foot on the numerous trails. There are three nature trails that include The Elk Mountain, Rankin Ridge, and Prairie Vista. Each is one mile long and follows a loop. Visitors will find prairies, forests, and the scenic Black Hills while using the 30 miles of hiking trails that stretch across the park. There is something for every skill level, including children and the disabled.
Camping
The Elk Mountain Campground at Wind Cave National Park is open year round. Guests can stay at the edge of the prairie along the forest ridge. Rustic camp sites do have water and toilet facilities during the summer months, and each one accommodates up to eight people and one vehicle. In addition, there are 25 pull through RV sites available. All sites are rented on a first come first served basis.
Images via daveynin
