Park Essentials

Accessibility

The visitor center is entirely wheelchair accessible, but only a few areas of the cave itself are navigable by those with limited mobility. Arrangements can be made in advance for a special ranger-assisted tour for a small fee.

Park Fees and Permits

There's no fee to enter the park; cave tours cost $7–$23. The requisite backcountry camping and horseback-riding permits are both free from the visitor center.

Park Hours

The park is open year-round. It is in the Mountain time zone.

Automobile Service Stations

Big D Oil Company. 381 U.S. 16, Custer, South Dakota, 57730. 605/673–3335; www.bigdoil.com.

Norton's. 1845 University Ave., Hot Springs, South Dakota, 57747. 605/745–3219.

Cell-Phone Reception

Cell-phone reception is hit and miss in the park, and western South Dakota is serviced only by Verizon Wireless and AT&T, so those with other carriers may be charged roaming fees. You will find a public phone outside the visitor center.

Emergencies

Dial 911 for emergencies, then call the visitor center at 605/745–4600. Rangers can provide basic first aid. Further medical attention is available at Custer Community Hospital in Custer, Southern Hills Hospital in Hot Springs, or Rapid City Regional Hospital. Report a fire at the visitor center.