Circle View Guest Ranch
Cozy rustic bedroom with a weathered wooden headboard, star garland, lamp, cow artwork, and checkered curtains in Badlands National Park.
Cozy bathroom with a glass-free shower, gray patterned curtain, toilet, towel rack, and a small shelf with decor in Badlands National Park
+2 more

Circle View Guest Ranch

Lodging★★★★☆
Last Updated: January 2026

Overview

About This Property

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.

Your Morning Game Plan

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.

Highlights

Book If

✅ 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.

Notable Views

Badlands and White River Valley, Park-facing views from select Main Guesthouse rooms

Architecture

Historic ranch-style main guesthouse with 1880 Homestead Cabin

Awards

Not available

Family Friendly

Family units exist (bunkhouse and camping cabins) but 1880 Cabin is historic; young children may need caution around ranch animals and age-restricted spaces.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring to early fall (May–October) when trail access and wildlife viewing are optimal.

Pro Tips

  • Breakfast is served at 7:30 AM in the Kruse family kitchen; locally sourced foods and homemade baked goods.
  • 1880 Homestead Cabin has no shower; plan accordingly.
  • Pets allowed in camping cabins and bunkhouse with approval; $25/night per pet (plus $10 per extra animal).
  • Free on-site parking; ensure arrival before 8 PM for smooth check-in.
  • Park-facing views are top-tier; request Main Guesthouse rooms with park sightlines.

Property History

Established: 1880
Recent Updates: Not available

The Honest Truth

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.

Who Should Skip This

Luxury-only travelers; those needing ADA-accessible rooms or on-site dining beyond breakfast; guests who require guaranteed private baths in every unit.

Booking Insider Tip

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.

What Guests Say

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.

ℹ️ Data Sources

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