Ben Reifel Visitor Center — Attraction in Kadoka

Date of visit: July 21, 2023 As you come around The Loop through the Badlands (traveling west to east), please note it is the SECOND building you see. The first building is a gift shop/restaurant which we did not realize when we pulled up and entered. Only after entering, shopping, and asking about National Parks Stamp Cancelation were we told the visitor scenter was next door. At the visitor center: There is plenty of parking. They have exhibits as well as a real fossil prep lab. There is also a water bottle refill station so bring your bottles in to stay hydrated. Spend your money here on souvenirs as the money helps the National Parks Service. The gift shop did not allow photos as they have some original works of art. As with any National Parks Visitor Center, check with the information about the National Parks Junior Ranger Program (which is available for kids of ALL ages, including adults!) "The National Park Junior Ranger Program is a national initiative focused on educating kids about national parks, wildlife conservation, and outdoor recreation. Kids can complete activities, earn badges and patches, and explore national parks as part of the program". And of course don't forget to get a cancelation stamp in you National Parks Passport. "How does the National Park Passport Book work? Since 1986, national park visitors have turned to Eastern National's bestselling guidebook, Passport To Your National Parks®, to collect ink stamps from each of their explorations. Take your Passport to any national park visitor center or park store and get your free ink stamp with the date and location of your visit."

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The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is an almost required stop while driving through the Badlands. It is located on the southern part of the scenic loop. This is one of the only locations where there is water, flush toilets, and air conditioning!

The visitor center was very busy the entire time we were there. The Rangers at the information desk seemed to be doing a great job answering questions and providing driving info.

Thete is a good introductory film, a small exhibit area, and a gift shop. There were also a number of partially shaded picnic tables outside for those looking for somewhere to eat lunch.

I downgraded the visitor center slightly to a 4-star as there was a surprisingly lack of safety information for visitors regarding the desert like environment, lack of shade, and heat warnings. We saw a number of people on trails without hats or water. The air temperature while we were at the Badlands was in the low 80s, but with the absence of shade on the trails, there was a real susceptibility to...

I recently had the opportunity to visit the Ben Refuel Visitor Center, and I wanted to take a moment to share my experience. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the professionalism, hospitality of the center.

The staff were incredibly welcoming and well-informed. They took the time to answer my questions, provide helpful information, and made sure I felt comfortable throughout my visit. The facility itself was clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed, which made the experience all the more enjoyable.

One thing that stood out to me was the attention to detail. Whether it was the efficiency of the services provided or the friendliness of the park rangers , it’s clear that Ben Refuel prioritizes a positive visitor experience.

Overall, I left the center feeling well taken care of and genuinely appreciated as a guest. I highly recommend stopping by if you have the chance—you won’t be...