Wasta Bar
Burger and fries with melted cheddar at a Badlands National Park dining spot, served in a casual indoor setting.
Exterior of a rustic roadside bar at Badlands National Park, with a covered porch and string lights.
+2 more

Wasta Bar

Food Drinks★★★★☆
Last Updated: January 2026

Hours

Monday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed

Outdoor Seating

No

Dietary Options

General

Rating

★★★★☆ (4)

Overview

About This Establishment

Juicy cheeseburger built from locally sourced beef hits the grill with a thick, springy bite. Crispy fries crackle at the edges as grease whispers through the air, while the 12 oz sirloin and 10 oz filet sit at a friendly $14 a notch. The joint wears rustic wood, a warm glow, and a crowd that laughs through karaoke nights—the vibe that keeps Wasta Bar buzzing after a long day in the prairie. It’s a bar that serves honest bites and a sense of community you can feel in every clink of a glass.

At a Glance

Best For
Locals Post-hike travelers Casual group dining
Vibe
Casual Cozy Community hub

The Order Strategy

Skip the generic menu items and go straight for the Cheeseburger—locals swear by the locally sourced beef. For drinks, choose a local beer to pair with the fries.

The Vibe Check

This is a Post-Hike HQ turned social hub: casual, sturdy, and welcoming with a crowd that leans into karaoke and good company.

The Crowd Factor

Evenings and weekends draw a crowd; sit at the bar for quicker seating and a taste of the local rhythm

Eat Here If / Skip If

EAT HERE IF: You want a burger with local beef and a friendly bar scene. SKIP IF: You’re after a hushed, formal dining room.

What Makes It Special

Local burgers with beef sourced from nearby farms in a small-town bar setting

Must-Try Items

Signature Dishes: Cheeseburger (locally sourced beef)

Cheeseburger and crispy fries

Best Time to Visit

Mid-afternoon on weekdays (around 3:00–5:00 PM) to dodge crowds; evenings are the peak for the full bar/karaoke vibe.

Tips & Advice

  • Go for the cheeseburger with locally sourced beef.
  • Fries deliver a crisp snap.
  • Arrive mid-afternoon to beat the rush; evenings are lively with karaoke.

Skip If

Seek a quiet, quiet-dining experience; prefer formal settings

Family Info

Casual vibe; family-friendly seating; expect some noise during karaoke

What Diners Say

Locals praise the cheeseburger and fries, with the locally sourced beef highlighted; warm hospitality and a community vibe elevate the experience. The bar acts as a social hub, delivering solid bites and a sense of small-town charm that sticks with you after the visit.

ℹ️ Data Sources

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →