Thin fins of calcite forming box-shaped openings, called boxwork, on a cave ceiling.

National Park · South Dakota

Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park protects two very different worlds - one deep within the earth, the other a sunlit world of many resources. Bison, elk, and other wildlife roam the rolling prairie grasslands and forested hillsides of one of America's oldest national parks. Below the remnant island of intact prairie sits Wind Cave, one of the longest and most complex caves in the world.

Auto and ATV
Scenic Driving
Biking
Road Biking
Camping
Backcountry Camping
Car or Front Country Camping
Group Camping
RV Camping
Caving
Food
Picnicking
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Hiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Horse Trekking
Junior Ranger Program
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Park Film
Museum Exhibits
Shopping

Weather & when to go

Spring: Highs range from 50-70°F with highly variable weather. Spring is the park's wettest season. Summer: Hot and generally dry with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 80°F (27°C). Strong thunderstorms are common and can produce large hail and lightning. Fall: Generally dry with warm days and cool nights. Highs 50-60°F. Lows below freezing are common. Winter: Highs are in the high 30s with lows around 10°F. Snowfall averages 30 inches annually, periodically closing park roads.

Operating hours

Wind Cave National Park

The park is open all day, every day. Snow or severe weather can limit access to some areas of the park, especially in winter. Visitor Center hours and cave tour schedules vary throughout the year. Visit the park website or call 605.745.4600 for current conditions.

Campgrounds

Elk Mountain Campground
Reserve ↗NPS info ↗

FAQ

Is Wind Cave National Park free to visit?: Wind Cave National Park does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
What are the hours at Wind Cave National Park?: The park is open all day, every day. Snow or severe weather can limit access to some areas of the park, especially in winter. Visitor Center hours and cave tour schedules vary throughout the year. Visit the park website or call 605.745.4600 for current conditions.
Do I need a reservation for Wind Cave National Park?: No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Wind Cave National Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.