A WHOLE COUNTRY OF REASONS TO GO

Wind Cave National Park

South Dakota
Cave formations & prairie wildlife
Where to stay →
Scenic header: Wind Cave National Park · NPS Photo · Photo credits
A GOOD REASON TO GO

Cave formations & prairie wildlife

Wind Cave brings together an underground world and Black Hills prairie above it. Pair a properly arranged cave visit with scenic driving or a short surface walk if access and time allow.

Thin fins of calcite forming box-shaped openings, called boxwork, on a cave ceiling.
The boxwork on the ceiling of the Elk's Room is a popular photography subject and has been featured on many postcards and other souvenirs.
NPS Photo

What to explore

  • Cave tours when offered
  • Visitor center
  • Prairie and wildlife viewing

Before you go

Check cave-tour and elevator availability before making the underground visit essential to your itinerary. Surface wildlife viewing has its own rewards.

Allow time for the approach, interpretation and breaks. Check the specific facilities and walking surfaces your guests need.

Where to stay →Official visitor information ↗

Current access, reservations, fees and operating arrangements should be checked with the official operator or managing agency. Photographs can show earlier conditions.