RestaurantWakin’ Bacon
Crispy Bacon steals the show; Wakin' Bacon Burger anchors lunch.

Katie’s Kantina rips through the park with a casual, friendly vibe and a food-truck swagger. The cheese-crusted tacos deliver a crackle and savory beef rush that hits the palate with a crisp, salty punch. Burritos are tightly packed with flavorful ingredients, and Chickles melt cheese over grilled pickles in a surprising, addictive combo. It’s a humble spot that still fires off bold flavors, best enjoyed after a day on Badlands trails.
Skip the burrito and go for the cheese-crusted tacos; For coffee, order iced caramel macchiato.
Post-hike casual: family-friendly, approachable, not geared for laptop work; keep it simple and loud-enjoyable.
Weekday visits recommended to dodge crowds; line length varies with tourist season.
EAT HERE IF: you want bold Mexican flavors in a casual Badlands setting. SKIP IF: you crave fine dining or need a menu with strict allergen controls.
Cheese-crusted tacos and Chickles in a Badlands food truck setting
Signature Dishes: Cheese-crusted tacos; flavorful pulled pork burrito; Chickles (melted cheese on grilled pickles)
Cheese-crusted tacos; burritos; Chickles
Weekdays or off-peak hours to dodge crowds; peak tourist seasons bring more foot traffic.
Fine dining purists or those seeking a formal restaurant atmosphere
Kid-friendly with a Kids Taco; casual, welcoming atmosphere
Reviewers laud the crackling cheese crust, tender pork, and fresh ingredients; the Chickles are a standout and the overall vibe is welcoming. The service is consistently described as friendly with fast takeout, making it a reliable post-park stop. The place is regarded as a must-visit for bold park-area flavors without the tourist trap feel.
No explicit accessibility details provided. Seating includes indoor and outdoor options; curbside pickup available, which can aid accessibility needs.
To Park Center
approximately 20 miles from park entrance
Free parking lot with plenty of parking.
Based on 193 Google reviews
Based on 193 guest reviews
" Reviewers laud the crackling cheese crust, tender pork, and fresh ingredients; the Chickles are a standout and the overall vibe is welcoming. The service is consistently described as friendly with fast takeout, making it a reliable post-park stop. The place is regarded as a must-visit for bold park-area flavors without the tourist trap feel."
Showing 1 of 193 reviews
Yes. There is indoor seating in addition to outdoor options.
Yes. Takeout and curbside pickup are available; no delivery.
Yes, with a Kids Taco and a generally family-friendly atmosphere.
Dietary options are not explicitly listed for Katie's Kantina.
The cheese-crusted tacos are the cult favorite, with the Burritos and Chickles as strong contenders.
6 listings
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