Burns Basin Overlook is a scenic viewpoint within Badlands National Park in South Dakota. It is a stop for visitors who want to see the park's landscape without a long hike, and it sits close to the sort of wide, open terrain that makes the Badlands distinctive.
What you will see
From the overlook, the view runs across the eroded formations of the Badlands and out to the mixed-grass prairie of the Great Plains beyond. The contrast is the main attraction: the sharp, banded ridges and gullies on one side give way to the softer, grassy expanse that stretches toward the horizon. Because the setting is open, the light and weather change the colours of the rock and grass noticeably over the course of a day.
Planning your stop
- Type of visit: a short, scenic stop rather than a trail walk, suited to a drive through the park.
- Location: within Badlands National Park, with the park address listed as SD 57750.
- Contact: the park can be reached by phone at +1-605-433-5361.
Visitors who are already exploring the park can fold the overlook into a wider drive, pairing it with other lookouts and trailheads. Those who prefer a more active visit may find the surrounding park offers more to explore on foot.
Burns Basin Overlook is a good choice if you want a broad view of the Badlands and the prairie beside them, especially if your time in the park is limited.
