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Lincoln to Badlands National Park

Updated: March 13, 2024 11:58 PM
Badlands National Park

Lincoln to Badlands National Park

Language

The official language of the United States is English. However, Spanish is also widely spoken in many parts of the country, including the Badlands National Park.

Currency

The official currency of the United States is the US dollar ($).

Distance

The distance between Lincoln, Nebraska and Badlands National Park is approximately 350 miles (560 kilometers).

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Badlands National Park from Lincoln. You can drive, take a bus, or fly.

Driving: The drive from Lincoln to Badlands National Park takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes. The route is mostly interstate highway, so it is a relatively easy drive.

Bus: There is no direct bus service from Lincoln to Badlands National Park. However, you can take a bus from Lincoln to Rapid City, South Dakota, and then transfer to a bus that goes to the park. The total travel time is about 8 hours.

Flying: The closest airport to Badlands National Park is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP). There are several flights per day from Lincoln to Rapid City. Once you arrive at the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to the park. The drive from Rapid City to Badlands National Park takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Expenses

The cost of your trip to Badlands National Park will vary depending on your travel style and the time of year you visit. However, here are some general estimates:

  • Accommodation: Camping is the most affordable option for accommodation in Badlands National Park. There are several campgrounds in the park, with rates starting at $20 per night. You can also find motels and hotels in the towns of Wall and Kadoka, which are located just outside the park.
  • Food: There are several restaurants in Badlands National Park, but they can be expensive. You can save money by bringing your own food and cooking it at your campsite. There are also several grocery stores in the towns of Wall and Kadoka.
  • Activities: There are several activities available in Badlands National Park, including hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. Most of these activities are free, but there are some fees for guided tours and other special programs.
  • Transportation: If you are driving to Badlands National Park, you will need to pay for gas and parking. The entrance fee to the park is $30 per vehicle.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Badlands National Park is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, the park is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique experiences.

  • Spring: The spring is a great time to visit Badlands National Park, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the wildlife is most active.
  • Summer: The summer is the most popular time to visit Badlands National Park, but it can also be the hottest and most crowded.
  • Fall: The fall is a beautiful time to visit Badlands National Park, when the leaves are changing color and the temperatures are cooling down.
  • Winter: The winter is a quiet time to visit Badlands National Park, but it can also be very cold and snowy.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants in Badlands National Park, but they can be expensive. You can save money by bringing your own food and cooking it at your campsite. There are also several grocery stores in the towns of Wall and Kadoka.

Here are some of the local dishes that you can try in Badlands National Park:

  • Buffalo burgers: Buffalo burgers are a popular dish in Badlands National Park. They are made with ground buffalo meat, which is leaner and healthier than beef.
  • Fry bread: Fry bread is a Native American dish that is made with fried dough. It can be served with a variety of toppings, such as honey, cinnamon, or meat.
  • Indian tacos: Indian tacos are a type of taco that is made with fry bread instead of a corn tortilla. They are typically topped with ground beef, cheese, and vegetables.
  • Pemmican: Pemmican is a traditional Native American food that is made with dried meat, fat, and berries. It is a high-energy food that was often used by Native Americans on long journeys.

Where to Go

There are several things to see and do in Badlands National Park. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

  • Badlands Loop Road: The Badlands Loop Road is a 39-mile scenic drive that takes you through the heart of the park. Along the way, you will see stunning views of the Badlands formations, as well as wildlife such as bison, prairie dogs, and eagles.
  • Cedar Pass: Cedar Pass is a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Badlands. It is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset viewing.
  • Minuteman Missile National Historic Site: The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is a former nuclear missile launch site. You can take a tour of the site and learn about the history of the Cold War.
  • Sage Creek Wilderness Area: The Sage Creek Wilderness Area is a 12,000-acre wilderness area that offers opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and camping.
  • White River Visitor Center: The White River Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to Badlands National Park. You can learn about the park's history, geology, and wildlife. You can also pick up maps and other information.

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Badlands National Park:

  • What is the entrance fee to Badlands National Park? The entrance fee to Badlands National Park is $30 per vehicle.
  • Are there any discounts on the entrance fee? Yes, there are discounts for senior citizens, disabled visitors, and military personnel.
  • Can I camp in Badlands National Park? Yes, there are several campgrounds in Badlands National Park. The campgrounds are open year-round, but some of them may be closed during the winter months.
  • Can I bring my pet to Badlands National Park? Yes, you can bring your pet to Badlands National Park, but they must be on a leash at all times.
  • Is there any food available in Badlands National Park? Yes, there are several restaurants in Badlands National Park, but they can be expensive. You can save money by bringing your own food and cooking it at your campsite. There are also several grocery stores in the towns of Wall and Kadoka.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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