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Explore South Dakota: Jewel Cave and Buffalo Round-Up

1/27/2026

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Summary

Custer Park Highlights

Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota extends over 220 miles, ranking as the fifth-longest cave globally.
From the Visitor Center, Jewel Cave National Monument trails require visitors to exercise caution due to rattlesnakes.
Custer State Park spans 71,000 acres and hosts a Buffalo Round-Up each September, when cowboys gather the park's 1,300 buffalo.
The Wildlife Loop spans 18 miles and offers wildlife viewing in Custer State Park.

Summary

Badlands Scenic Exploration

Badlands National Park in South Dakota covers 244,000 acres and features unique geological formations and fossil beds.
The park preserves diverse landscapes, including mixed grass prairie and rocky outcrops.
Visitors can drive the Badlands Loop Road for scenic views, with Pinnacles Overlook offering notable sunset vistas.
Visitors should exercise caution around Prairie Rattlesnakes that blend into open grasslands.

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Custer Park Highlights

Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota extends over 220 miles, ranking as the fifth-longest cave globally.
From the Visitor Center, Jewel Cave National Monument trails require visitors to exercise caution due to rattlesnakes.
Custer State Park spans 71,000 acres and hosts a Buffalo Round-Up each September, when cowboys gather the park's 1,300 buffalo.
The Wildlife Loop spans 18 miles and offers wildlife viewing in Custer State Park.

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