Wind Cave National Park
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Wind Cave National Park

Rare boxwork formations below, bison prairie above.

Wind Cave is famed for its boxwork, a delicate honeycomb of calcite fins that is rare elsewhere. The cave "breathes" air in and out through its natural entrance, which gave the park its name.

Above ground, mixed-grass prairie and ponderosa forest support bison, elk and prairie dogs, and the scenic drive through the park is a relaxed wildlife outing in itself.

Highlights

  • Boxwork formations
  • Ranger-led cave tours
  • Prairie wildlife
  • Scenic park drive

Local tips

  • Cave tours are ticketed and can sell out in summer. Check the National Park Service page for current options.
  • Wear closed-toe shoes and a light jacket. The cave stays cool year-round.

Also nearby

The closest other places in the guide to Wind Cave National Park.

about 9 mi from here
History & family fun

The Mammoth Site

A working Ice Age dig, with mammoths where they fell.