Badlands National Park

We like big buttes and we cannot lie

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Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

What’s new? Updated today

Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes

What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.

If you like big buttes than we cannot lie, Badlands National Park in South Dakota is the place to go. These steep rocky formations, actually pronounced “byoot”, stand strikingly alone amongst the parks many desert canyons.

Loop Road (Highway 240) is a scenic route that everyone can enjoy, taking you through the park’s top sites, attractions, and views including Yellow Mounds Overlook.

The most famous trail in the park (Notch Trail) is a 1.5 mile hike that includes a ladder climb to the top of a cliff for an amazing view- it’s short but strenuous and should be avoided if you’re scared of heights. Castle Trail is just the opposite: at 10-miles it’s the longest trail in the park but it’s also one of the flattest, easiest, and least traveled.

Keep an eye out for Prarie Dogs (Roberts Prarie Dog Town) on your way to and from popular points in the park such as Panorama Point, Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, and Door Trail.

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