Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private)
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 30 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private) worth booking?
Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private) is a 6-hour experience in Rapid City, United States, from $850 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 30 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 66 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (30)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $850 per person
A once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the incredible Badlands; first in the afternoon and into a golden sunset - followed by the official National Park stargazing program. The best of both worlds, this tour allows
What you get
About this experience
A once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the incredible Badlands; first in the afternoon and into a golden sunset - followed by the official National Park stargazing program. The best of both worlds, this tour allows us the view wildlife and the parks formations before the sun sets, and then taking on the park after dark! Because Badlands National Park is not surrounded by big cities or other major sources of light pollution, night skies in the park are very clear. After dark, visitors can see many of the night sky’s greatest hits: constellations, the moon, satellites, and airplanes. But the special darkness of Badlands National Park helps visitors to see even more like planets, the Milky Way, star clusters, nebulae, the International Space Station, shooting stars, and – very occasionally – the aurora borealis.
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- National Park Entrance Fees
- Binoculars and Telescopes
- Rapid City Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Private Tour - Exclusive to your group
- Local expert guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Dinner
What you'll see and do
Downtown Rapid City
We offer complimentary pick up within the central Rapid City area and Box Elder Hotels. If you are staying outside of this area, you may be asked to meet us in town at the pick up location. Our travel time to the Badlands area is ~1 hour.
60 minutes here
Wall Drug
An optional stop to the famous Wall Drug. "Wall Drug has become an emblem of American perseverance and innovation. From its modest inception in 1931, this once little-known drugstore has transformed into an enthralling destination for over 2 million visitors each year. At Wall Drug, you're not just a customer; you're part of a rich history that spans over eight decades, offering a blend of dining, activities, gifts, souvenirs, and the hallmark free ice water that has refreshed countless road-worn travelers."
30 minutes here
Badlands National Park
Our evening officially begins at the entrance to the National Park. Our stops through the park will vary depending on guests requests and where wildlife is found. Listed Below are some examples of stops through the park.
180 minutes here
Sage Creek Wilderness Area
We enter the National Park from the west entrance and first make our way through the sage creek area to aim to find wildlife. A spectacular view awaits us!
5 minutes here · Admission included
Pinnacles Overlook
Moving through the park, we stop at pinnacles overlook to take in the spectacular late afternoon views.
5 minutes here · Admission included
Yellow Mounds Overlook
Sunset brings out the most spectacular color formations in the park - yellow mounds overlook does not disappoint with vibrant striations visible here.
5 minutes here · Admission included
Badlands Wilderness Overlook
We continue through the park at a variety of overlooks looking for wildlife and learning about the geology of the area.
5 minutes here · Admission included
Ben Reifel Visitor Center
If the opportunity arises we will stop at the visitors center (Depending on the timing of sunset, the Visitors Center may be closed upon arrival.). From here we move onto the Amphitheater and begin out evening program and star gazing.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Rapid City
After Dark, we return to Rapid City ~ 1.5 hour drive.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Rapid City
If we are not picking up at your hotel. Your pick up point in Rapid City will be at the downtown holiday inn. Free parking. Please meet us out the front of the lobby.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations.
Ends at
If we are not picking up at your hotel. Your pick up point in Rapid City will be at the downtown holiday inn. Free parking. Please meet us out the front of the lobby.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Black Hills Tour Company
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Wheelchair access is available for collapsible wheelchairs.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 28 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
28 verified traveler reviews for Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great Experience
There were 2 couples we all had a great time on our 3 tours. Our guide Steve was very knowledgeable about the area and sites we visited. Had a small hiccup with the snow it was a GREAT experience, we would do it again.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share your experience! We’re so glad your group enjoyed all three tours and that Steve helped make your time in the Black Hills memorable. His knowledge of the area and passion for sharing it with visitors are things our guests often appreciate. We’re also happy to hear that the unexpected snow didn’t take away from your adventure. Weather in the Black Hills can certainly keep us on our toes, but sometimes it adds a little extra story to tell when you get home! Thank you for choosing Black Hills Tour Company. We truly appreciate your kind words and would love to welcome you back again in the future.
via Tripadvisor
Mt Rushmore touring at its finest
We did two tours with Black Hills. Our tour guide, Joel was without a doubt one of the best guides we have ever experienced. He was not only knowledgeable but easy to understand. We saw places that the average tour would never see. He was good with everyone in our small group from 7 years old to 70. The booking process and the tour van were top notch. If you want a 10 star tour experience call Black Hills Tour Company.
Response from the operator: What a great review, thank you so very much! Joel goes above and beyond and we are so glad you enjoyed your time in the area. Thank you again for touring with us.
via Tripadvisor
Fascinating
Excellent and enjoyable experience even though it was raining part of the time. Tour was custom designed for me and my wife. Tour guide was fabulous.
Response from the operator: Thank you! I wish we could control the weather - glad to hear you had a great time either way :)
via Tripadvisor
Steve: Man, Myth, Legend
This tour was perfect. Me and my friends had a private tour with Steve who was amazing. He picked us up at our hotel and provided us food and beverage while also giving us amazing knowledge. We are forever thankful for Steve and I named a stuff animal after Steve
Response from the operator: Steve will be thrilled with this review. Thanks so much for touring with us and being such a fun group to take out!
via Tripadvisor
Western South Dakota is a Hidden Gem!
We did two tours with BHTC during our visit to South Dakota, a four day self-guided bike tour along the Mickelson Trail, followed by an afternoon evening tour of the Badlands National Park. Melina and her team earned five stars. They were organized, friendly, local, nice, and very knowledgeable about the area. The vehicles were in good shape. They were always on time. We had a great time. This area is a hidden gem! Gage and Cindy - you guys were the best! Thanks for making our vacation so memorable. Look forward to seeing you on another visit!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review Jim! We are so thrilled you enjoyed your time in the area. Thanks for touring with us, and for being such enjoyable guests.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $850 to $2600
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 11
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 66
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private): questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rapid City.
How much does Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private) cost?
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Prices start at $850 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rapid City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private) take?
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Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rapid City is not rushed.
Is Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private) worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 30 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rapid City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private)?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private) suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private)?
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Around 11 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rapid City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rapid City and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Badlands National Park - Sunset and Stargazing (Private) start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rapid City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Rapid City?
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Rapid City is the base for Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse tours, Badlands National Park loops, Custer State Park wildlife drives and Black Hills cave visits. On Outty we rank every Rapid City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show, Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, PREMIER PRIVATE Tour: Mt Rushmore, CrazyHorse & Custer State Park. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Rapid City?
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May to September, with Sturgis crowding early August. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Rapid City?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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