Badlands National Park: Breathtaking Premium Van Expedition
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Price From $299.00 per person
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During a government shutdown, Badlands and Mount Rushmore remains open and accessible to the public, but all services provided by the National Park Service (NPS) are suspended. The extent of the impact can vary based on the specifics of the shutdown, but past incidents provide a clear precedent for what to expect. Concessionaire operations: Third-party vendors who operate facilities like restaurants and gift shops (e.g., Xanterra) may remain open and provide limited services, including restrooms. These are privately-run services and are not affected by the government shutdown. State funding: During previous shutdowns, the state of South Dakota and private donors stepped in to provide funding to keep the memorial open and restore some services. In a 2023 budget standoff, South Dakota officials secured a deal with the NPS to keep some areas open.
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
5 stars
Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
Isabelle_H, 9/25/2025 10:09:37 PM
Interesting excursion around the Badlands. Our guide was very knowledgeable. We learned about the life and history of the natives and the settlers, and the wildlife on the prairie. Also a visit to the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site.
I9112XBjohnl, 9/25/2025 10:02:07 PM
Scott wax a great tour guide. Very knowledgeable about the area. Van was comfortable. Scott provided water, snacks and lunch. Answered all our questions and allowed adequate time at each location
Vacation293650, 9/23/2025 11:21:42 AM
Scott was great, enjoyed the tour. Fascinating part of the country. We were the only two guests since late in the tourism season.
ramprasad_s, 9/16/2025 11:08:05 AM
Nice family friendly, very informative, educational, and very good tour. Tour operator is pretty knowledgeable.
Yen_L, 9/13/2025 7:33:55 AM
We came a private tour by accident. Another couple canceled last minute. Our tour guide was fun, knowledgeable and friendly. Wall drug was cool. I got a very nice wallet handmade with bison skin which should last a lifetime. My husband had a delicious double bacon cheeseburger at salty steer which he loved.
Lisa_B, 9/12/2025 8:48:28 AM
This was a terrific way to see the unique area that is the Badlands. Our guide, Charlie, was knowledgeable, fun and had so much history and Native American lore to share. We only had one day, and this was the perfect way to maximize our time and get the most out of the park. Wear good shoes and a hat. Ground can be uneven.
Sharon_F, 9/8/2025 5:42:45 PM
A great way to experience the Badlands We were lucky to have TJ as our guide…he is so knowledgeable!
P8962LHjanetm, 8/30/2025 11:17:45 PM
Our guide TJ was knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide. The tour was exceptional.. we had fun and learned a lot about South Dakota and the Badlands!
Joan_H, 8/18/2025 6:45:51 PM
Exactly as described- great day! TJ was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable, flexible, and eady going. Can tailor the trip as desired.
Nathan_G, 8/17/2025 2:29:42 PM
Our tour guide TJ was amazing and a pleasure to meet! Very adaptable, patient with our chaotic family of 6, as well as being very knowledgeable about the areas and history of the state.
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Departure point
Near lobby front door.Return details
During a government shutdown, Badlands and Mount Rushmore remains open and accessible to the public, but all services provided by the National Park Service (NPS) are suspended. The extent of the impact can vary based on the specifics of the shutdown, but past incidents provide a clear precedent for what to expect. Concessionaire operations: Third-party vendors who operate facilities like restaurants and gift shops (e.g., Xanterra) may remain open and provide limited services, including restrooms. These are privately-run services and are not affected by the government shutdown. State funding: During previous shutdowns, the state of South Dakota and private donors stepped in to provide funding to keep the memorial open and restore some services. In a 2023 budget standoff, South Dakota officials secured a deal with the NPS to keep some areas open.Redemption
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended • If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly. Minimum drinking age is 21 years24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund