Tag Archive: travel south dakota

  1. Government Closure & Our Parks – News from Travel South Dakota

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    SOUTH DAKOTA NATIONAL PARKS: STILL OPEN TO EXPLORE

    Dear South Dakota Tourism Industry Friends,

    We have positive news to share with you.

    As of October 1, 2025, most of the National Park Service units in South Dakota remain accessible and as open as possible to visitors, but visitor centers and some other services within the parks are temporarily closed or discontinued due to the federal government shutdown. Despite these temporary closures at some locations, many iconic experiences remain open and accessible, and travel is still encouraged to most of our national parks in The Mount Rushmore State.

    • Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Open daily! The memorial grounds, parking structure, and concessions (including dining and gift shops) remain open. The visitor center, ranger talks, and evening lighting ceremonies are temporarily unavailable.
    • Badlands National Park: Open for exploration! Scenic drives, trails, and overlooks remain open to visitors. Vault toilets are available throughout the park. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center and ranger-led programs are temporarily closed. The White River Visitor Center closed for the season on 9/20/25.
    • Minuteman Missile National Historic Site: Minuteman is temporarily closed. The museum and tours are currently unavailable. Please check online for updates as they are available.
    • Wind Cave National Park: The aboveground experience at the park is open for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the unique prairie landscape. The visitor center and cave tours are unavailable.
    • Jewel Cave National Monument: The monument is temporarily closed. The visitor center and cave tours are unavailable. Please check online for updates as they are available.
    • Missouri National Recreational River: Open for exploration. The visitor center is closed.

    We appreciate your understanding and help in encouraging visitors to plan ahead, check official park websites for real-time updates, and continue enjoying the natural beauty and historic landmarks South Dakota proudly offers. In addition, South Dakota’s state parks are fully open for business! From Custer State Park and Spearfish Canyon to Sica Hollow State Park and Good Earth State Park, our state parks offer breathtaking landscapes, outdoor recreation, and unforgettable adventures.

    Travel South Dakota has created a page on TravelSouthDakota.com and will provide further updates as warranted.