Hike-in Required
No
Open Year-round
Yes
ADA accessible
Yes
Guided tours
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The White River Valley Overlook in South Dakota’s Badlands National Park provides sweeping views of the unique badlands terrain. The Overlook is located seven miles west of the Ben Reifel Visitor Center on the Badlands Loop Road (South Dakota Highway 240). The White River Valley Overlook is located on the south side of the road and there is ample parking. There is even parking for RVs and vehicles pulling campers. There are no restrooms or other amenities at this overlook. The overlook is wheelchair accessible.

The ravines at this location expose beautiful red stripes on the hills. A tall formation known as the castle can be seen to the southeast. To the south, beyond the badlands the prairie can be seen. The White River, which is about six miles south of the overlook, is a tributary of the Missouri River. The spectacular views from the White River Valley Overlook make it a worthy stop for travelers of the Badlands Loop Road.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Pros

Spectacular views of the badlands.

Cons

No restrooms or other amenities.

Pets allowed

Not Allowed

Features

Family friendly
Geologically significant
Big vistas
ADA accessible

Location

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