
This is a working cattle ranch just 6 miles from Badlands HQ, with historic charm and panoramic valley views. Seven rooms in the main guesthouse, plus the 1880 Homestead Cabin and bunkhouse give you authentic ranch living without the luxury price tag. Breakfast is family-style in the Kruse kitchen, and you’ll hear chickens and donkeys as you roam the grounds.
Coffee at 7:00 AM; drive to the gate about 20 minutes; leave by 6:45 AM to beat crowds and catch the best light on the Badlands vistas.
✅ BOOK IF: You want an authentic Badlands ranch experience with breakfast included and flexible unit options. ❌ SKIP IF: You need guaranteed luxury finishes or fully ADA-accessible accommodations.
Badlands and White River Valley, Park-facing views from select Main Guesthouse rooms
Historic ranch-style main guesthouse with 1880 Homestead Cabin
Not available
Family units exist (bunkhouse and camping cabins) but 1880 Cabin is historic; young children may need caution around ranch animals and age-restricted spaces.
Late spring to early fall (May–October) when trail access and wildlife viewing are optimal.
Rustic charm meets real ranch life. The 1880 Homestead Cabin is historic but lacks a shower, and some bunkhouse/camping cabins have shared baths. Breakfast is solid and included with some stays, and park views are a real highlight. If you hunt for luxury or formal dining, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
Luxury-only travelers; those needing ADA-accessible rooms or on-site dining beyond breakfast; guests who require guaranteed private baths in every unit.
Book early for peak views; request park-facing Main Guesthouse rooms; confirm pet approvals if bringing a furry friend; plan around the 4–8 PM check-in window.
Rustic, authentic ranch experience with expansive Badlands vistas. Breakfast is dependable; nights are quiet; some units are more basic (1880 Cabin lacks a shower). Great for families and travelers chasing a genuine western vibe on a budget.
Not available
No formal on-site restaurant. A full ranch breakfast is included with stays in the main guesthouse and some other units; no room service.
Any cancellation will result in a $50 charge. If cancellations are made within 30 days of arrival, the full reservation charge will be applied.
Pets allowed in camping cabins and bunkhouse with approval. Not allowed in main guesthouse rooms. Fees: $25/night per pet in camping cabins and bunkhouse; $20 pet fee for the 1880 Homestead Cabin; additional $10 per animal per night for cabins.
Free parking on premises. RV parking specifics are not listed.
To Park Center
6 miles to Badlands National Park headquarters; ~20 minutes by car
To Nearest Town
Interior, SD (nearest town); drive time not listed
Shuttle service: Not listed among property amenities.
Extensive ranch grounds for exploration
Based on 173 Google reviews
Based on 173 guest reviews
" Rustic, authentic ranch experience with expansive Badlands vistas. Breakfast is dependable; nights are quiet; some units are more basic (1880 Cabin lacks a shower). Great for families and travelers chasing a genuine western vibe on a budget."
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No formal restaurant; a full ranch breakfast is included in certain units; no room service.
Yes, pets are allowed in camping cabins and bunkhouse with approval; fees apply.
No shower in the 1880 Homestead Cabin; plan for alternatives.
Cancellations incur a $50 fee; within 30 days of arrival, the full reservation charge is applied.
Park-facing rooms in the Main Guesthouse, especially the 9 Suite, offer the best Badlands panoramas.
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