Intricate, wind-carved rock formations, ancient stalactites and a seemingly endless network of sprawling caverns are all hallmarks of the world-famous Wind Cave National Park. Located near Hot Springs, the park is a must-see in the southern Black Hills.
Wind Cave was the first cave designated a national park. Explore one of the world’s largest mapped cave systems, decorated with rare boxwork formations along the cavern walls. If you’re looking for a truly unique spelunking experience, this is the place. Above ground, explore 33,970 acres of forests and prairies that act as a natural sanctuary for bison, elk, prairie dogs and more.
Due to high visitation, cave tours often sell out 2 to 3 hours in advance and may sell out for the entire day by midday. Tickets may be purchased in advance via Recreation.gov. A credit or debit card is required for on-site payments for cave tours, campground fees and Interagency Passes at Wind Cave National Park.
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Wind Cave is home to some of South Dakota's most stunning vistas, both above and below ground.
Descend into the cave on a ranger-guided tour and feel the barometric breath of one of the world's longest caves. For more information on tours, scroll down to the FAQ section.
An uncommon structure of honeycomb-patterned projecting calcite from cave walls is the finest example of boxwork in the world.
A sacred place for the Lakota, their oral tradition tells the story that this is where humans first emerged from within the earth to live on the surface.
Buffalo roam, antelope scamper and prairie dogs play in and around Wind Cave — not only a national park but also a wildlife refuge. Animal lovers can spot these wildlife species and more from the window of their car any time of the year.
This 33,970-acre attraction is as impressive above ground as it is below. Its unique ecosystem is home to elk, buffalo, antelope, deer, prairie dogs and black-footed ferrets.
Choose from over 30 miles of hiking trails at Wind Cave National Park, and see if you can spot the diverse wildlife, like pronghorn antelope.
Wind Cave's beauty is on display in every season.
The Travel South Dakota Stories
A Life Underground
Deep below the Black Hills, more than 100 caves reveal a living, breathing world of winding passages and ancient formations. Venture beneath the surface of South Dakota to discover stories and landscapes shaped over time.
