Bear Country USA is a must-visit destination in SD

Bear Country USA opened in August 1972. The park began with just 11 black bears, a cougar, a wolf, three buffalo, and a bull elk. Over time, it has grown into a privately owned, family-operated park covering more than 200 acres. The park is now home to black bears, mountain lions, wolves, bison, elk, reindeer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife.

Unlike a traditional zoo, Bear Country's main attraction is a three-mile, drive-thru habitat where visitors remain in their cars while watching the animals. After the drive-through tour, visitors can embark on the walk-thru tour where they can enjoy the animals from a different perspective.

The drive-thru experience is the part of Bear Country USA that makes the park especially memorable. It puts visitors directly into expansive animal habitats while they remain safely inside their vehicles.

See black bears: Black bears are one of the park's signature residents, and visitors may see them walking along the roadway, climbing, resting, or moving through the surrounding habitat.
Spot grazing animals: The drive also passes through habitats containing bison, elk, reindeer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and mouflon.
Look for predators: Mountain lions, timber wolves, Arctic wolves, and other carnivores are among the predators visitors may encounter along the route.
Take your time: The drive-thru portion generally takes about an hour, although it can be longer when the park is busy or if you stop frequently to observe the animals.
Stay inside your vehicle: Everyone must remain inside the vehicle throughout the drive-thru, with doors, windows, and sunroofs closed. Feeding or touching the animals is prohibited.
Plan for your vehicle: Convertibles, motorcycles, UTVs, and other soft-top vehicles cannot enter the drive-thru area.

After completing the drive-thru portion, visitors can park and continue to the Wildlife Walkway, where smaller animals and younger residents provide a completely different kind of encounter.

Meet smaller animals: The Wildlife Walkway is home to animals such as otters, bobcats, badgers, coyotes, Arctic foxes, porcupines, coatis, and other species.
See baby bears: Depending on the time of year, the walkway can provide particularly memorable views of young bears as they grow and explore their habitat.
Plan on another hour: Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the walkway and gift shop after completing the drive.
Shop for souvenirs: The experience concludes near the park's gift shop, where visitors can browse wildlife-themed merchandise and souvenirs.

A few practical details can help you plan your visit.

How much does admission cost? Private-vehicle admission starts around $25 per adult, with special pricing available for children, military, and senior citizens.
What does admission include? Admission includes both the drive-thru park and the Wildlife Walkway.
When is Bear Country USA open? The park is open daily April through November. Check the website for the most current hours and closures.
Is parking available? Parking is available on-site after completing the drive-thru.
Is Bear Country USA accessible? Visitors with accessibility questions should contact the park before visiting.
Can I bring my dog? Pets may accompany visitors through the drive-thru as long as they remain inside the vehicle. Pets are not allowed in the Wildlife Walkway, but there is a designated area where they can be walked on a leash.
Are there guided tours? The standard experience is self-paced rather than a traditional guided tour. Bear Country USA does offer special arrangements for organized groups, so larger parties should contact the park in advance.
When are the animals most active? Feeding schedules vary, but many animals are fed in the morning. The bears are fed on a variable schedule. Because feeding times can change, the park cannot guarantee that visitors will see a feeding.

After a day of exploring Bear Country USA and the rest of the Black Hills, come back to Rockerville Lodge & Cabins for a comfortable home base. Our accommodations include modern rustic cabins, lodge rooms, suites, and the amenities to make your stay comfortable.

Our property also offers complimentary continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, fire pits, a seasonal splash pad, and family-friendly spaces where guests can relax after a day of sightseeing. Our on-site General Store provides convenient access to snacks, ice cream, drinks, gifts, firewood, and other essentials.

Our location is just minutes away from Bear Country USA, Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and other Black Hills attractions. Book your reservation today!

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