Nestled within the rugged landscapes of South Dakota, the Badlands region is home to some of the most secluded and enchanting small towns in America. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, these hidden gems offer a peaceful retreat amid dramatic vistas and rich history. Whether you’re seeking a quiet getaway or a glimpse into authentic prairie life, these ten secluded towns provide a unique and tranquil experience. Join us as we count down the most secluded towns in the Badlands, each offering its own charm and allure waiting to be discovered.
10. Wasta, South Dakota – The Quiet Side of the Badlands
With a population of just over 80 residents, Wasta embodies the essence of small-town tranquility. This quaint community offers a peaceful escape where time seems to slow down. Visitors can explore the nearby Cheyenne River, perfect for fishing and enjoying the serene prairie landscapes. Agriculture is the lifeblood of Wasta, with local farms and ranches dotting the vast open spaces. What makes Wasta truly secluded is its location off the beaten path, providing an atmosphere free from the distractions of modern life. The town’s hidden gem is the Wasta Rest Area, featuring unique sculptures made from recycled materials, delighting travelers who stumble upon it.
Where is Wasta?
Wasta is located in western South Dakota, approximately 50 miles east of Rapid City along Interstate 90. Despite its proximity to the interstate, the town remains tucked away amid rolling plains and distant horizons. Its seclusion is enhanced by the expansive landscapes that surround it, making it feel miles away from the nearest city. Travelers can reach Wasta by taking Exit 107 off I-90, but once there, they’ll find a world that moves at a different pace, offering a true escape into the quiet heart of the Badlands.
9. Hermosa, South Dakota – Serenity Near the Badlands
Hermosa, with a population of around 400, is a peaceful enclave on the edge of the Badlands and the Black Hills. This small town offers visitors the chance to explore nearby attractions like Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park while enjoying the tranquility of rural life. Local shops and cafes provide a taste of community spirit, and the annual Hermosa Arts and Crafts Fair is a hidden gem for artisans and enthusiasts alike. Ranching and agriculture are significant industries here, with vast pastures and grazing cattle shaping the landscape. Hermosa’s seclusion stems from its sparse population and location away from bustling tourist centers, making it a serene spot for those seeking quiet beauty amid South Dakota’s natural wonders.
Where is Hermosa?
Situated about 20 miles southeast of Rapid City on Highway 79, Hermosa serves as a gateway between the plains and the hills. Its location offers easy access to both the Badlands’ dramatic formations and the forested Black Hills, yet it maintains a sense of isolation due to the vast open spaces that surround it. The town’s secluded feel is enhanced by the sweeping vistas and minimal traffic, providing a peaceful retreat that’s still accessible by car. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive to Hermosa, setting the tone for a quiet and restorative visit.
8. Edgemont, South Dakota – The Hidden Western Outpost
Edgemont, home to approximately 750 residents, is a remote town steeped in rich railroad history. Once a bustling hub during the expansion of the Burlington Northern Railroad, today it offers a quiet retreat with a charming downtown echoing tales of the Old West. Visitors can explore the Edgemont Heritage Center to learn about the town’s storied past or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing along the Cheyenne River. The primary industries here include ranching and railroad operations, reflecting a blend of historical significance and rural living. Edgemont’s seclusion is due to its location on the southwestern edge of South Dakota, far from major highways and tourist routes, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude amid expansive prairies and hills.
Where is Edgemont?
Located near the Wyoming border, Edgemont sits at the southwestern tip of South Dakota, accessible via U.S. Highway 18. Its remote position, surrounded by vast stretches of open land and the Black Hills National Forest, gives it a sense of isolation from the rest of the state. The town is off the beaten path, requiring a deliberate journey to reach its quiet streets. Travelers can access Edgemont by car or by the historic Burlington Northern Railroad, but its distance from larger cities means that the journey itself feels like a step back in time.
7. Oelrichs, South Dakota – Quiet Crossroads of the Badlands
With a population of around 120 people, Oelrichs offers a glimpse into serene prairie life. This small town is characterized by its wide-open spaces and friendly residents. Visitors can enjoy community events at the Oelrichs Rodeo Grounds, a hidden gem that hosts local rodeos and gatherings. Agriculture is the mainstay here, with ranching and farming dominating the local economy. Oelrichs’ seclusion comes from its location amidst expansive grasslands, providing an uninterrupted connection with nature. The lack of urban development allows for breathtaking night skies, making it a perfect spot for stargazing.
Where is Oelrichs?
Oelrichs is situated in the far southwestern part of South Dakota, along U.S. Highway 385. It’s nestled between the Badlands to the east and the Black Hills to the north, enhancing its secluded feel. The town’s remote location means fewer visitors, allowing those who do make the journey to experience true peace and quiet. Accessing Oelrichs requires a scenic drive through rolling hills and prairies, reinforcing the sense of leaving the bustle behind.
6. Fairburn, South Dakota – Where Agates Meet the Badlands
Fairburn, with a population hovering around 90 residents, is a treasure trove for rock enthusiasts. Renowned for the Fairburn agate, South Dakota’s state gemstone, this tiny town attracts collectors searching for these beautiful stones in the surrounding areas. Outdoor explorers can hike through nearby Buffalo Gap National Grassland, uncovering the rugged beauty of the Badlands. The town’s economy revolves around ranching and a bit of tourism from rockhounds. Fairburn’s seclusion is amplified by its sparse population and the vast stretches of grassland that envelop it, creating an atmosphere of solitude and natural wonder.
Where is Fairburn?
Located approximately 25 miles southeast of Rapid City, Fairburn lies along State Highway 79. Despite its relative proximity to Rapid City, the town feels worlds apart due to the surrounding open landscapes and minimal development. The seclusion is further enhanced by the quiet roads leading into town, often traveled only by locals and dedicated agate hunters. Reaching Fairburn involves a journey through expansive grasslands, offering visitors a serene introduction to this hidden gem.
5. Buffalo Gap, South Dakota – History Amidst the Hills
Buffalo Gap boasts a population of about 130 residents and is rich in pioneer history. Once a bustling cattle town in the late 1800s, today it offers a peaceful environment with remnants of its historic past. Visitors can stroll through the small downtown area, exploring antique shops and the Buffalo Gap Historic Village. The town’s main industry is agriculture, with ranching playing a significant role in the local economy. Buffalo Gap’s seclusion is rooted in its location near the Badlands’ edge, surrounded by rolling hills and vast prairies that provide a quiet backdrop away from urban life.
Where is Buffalo Gap?
Situated about 12 miles south of Hot Springs, Buffalo Gap is accessible via Highway 79. The town lies at the southern end of the Black Hills, offering easy access to outdoor activities while maintaining its secluded charm. The open landscapes and minimal traffic contribute to its sense of isolation. Visitors can reach Buffalo Gap by a leisurely drive through scenic routes, embracing the tranquility that defines this historic town.
4. Philip, South Dakota – Tranquility on the Prairie
Philip is a small town with a population of around 750 people, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the vast prairies. It serves as a hub for surrounding ranching communities and provides essential services while maintaining a quiet atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Philip Pioneer Museum to learn about local history or enjoy outdoor activities like hunting and fishing in nearby areas. Agriculture, particularly cattle ranching, is the cornerstone of Philip’s economy. The town’s seclusion comes from its remote location in the heart of the prairie, offering expansive views and a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Philip?
Located along Highway 14, Philip sits in Haakon County in central South Dakota. It’s approximately 80 miles east of Rapid City, adding to its secluded feel. The town is surrounded by rolling plains, with few neighboring communities, enhancing its tranquil ambiance. Reaching Philip involves a journey through open landscapes, where the horizon seems endless, and the sky meets the prairie in a seamless blend.
3. Kadoka, South Dakota – The Hidden ‘Hole in the Wall’
Kadoka, known as the “Gateway to the Badlands,” has a population of about 650 residents. This small town offers visitors a blend of rustic charm and dramatic horizons. Attractions include the Badlands Petrified Gardens, showcasing ancient wood fossils, and the Kadoka Depot Museum, highlighting local history. The economy revolves around agriculture and tourism, serving as a rest stop for travelers heading to Badlands National Park. Kadoka’s seclusion is due to its location on the edge of the Badlands, providing a quiet retreat with stunning natural surroundings. The town’s hidden gem is the Kadoka Lake, a serene spot perfect for fishing and picnicking away from the crowds.
Where is Kadoka?
Kadoka is situated along Interstate 90, about 100 miles east of Rapid City. Despite its location on a major interstate, the town maintains a secluded atmosphere, nestled amid rolling hills and rugged terrain. The Badlands’ proximity enhances its sense of isolation, as the surrounding landscapes create a natural barrier from the hustle of larger cities. Visitors can reach Kadoka via Exit 150 on I-90, but once there, they’ll find a peaceful community that feels miles away from the beaten path.
2. Scenic, South Dakota – A Ghost Town Frozen in Time
Scenic is an almost-abandoned town that whispers tales of the Old West. With a population that has dwindled to fewer than 10 people, it offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era. Visitors can walk among historic buildings like the Longhorn Saloon and a defunct jailhouse, capturing the allure of a ghost town preserved in time. Scenic’s economy has faded along with its population, but the town’s charm lies in its quiet streets and abandoned structures. Its seclusion is profound, wrapped in the expansive Badlands that surround it, creating an atmosphere that’s both eerie and captivating.
Where is Scenic?
Located about 50 miles southeast of Rapid City, Scenic sits along Highway 44. The town’s remote location amidst the Badlands’ dramatic landscapes contributes to its isolated feel. Accessing Scenic involves a drive through rugged terrain, where the road winds through rock formations and vast prairies. The journey itself reinforces the sense of seclusion, arriving at a place where time appears to have stood still.
1. Interior, South Dakota – Gateway to the Heart of the Badlands
Interior, with a population of around 90 residents, is nestled at the entrance of Badlands National Park. This tiny town offers an authentic glimpse into secluded prairie life, where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Badlands. Activities include hiking scenic trails, stargazing in some of the darkest skies in the country, and visiting the White River Visitor Center to learn about the region’s geology and wildlife. The economy revolves around tourism and services for park visitors, but the town maintains a peaceful atmosphere. Interior’s seclusion is heightened by its location deep within the Badlands, surrounded by stunning buttes and canyons that create a natural sanctuary.
Where is Interior?
Interior is located along Highway 44, approximately 80 miles southeast of Rapid City. The town serves as a southern gateway to Badlands National Park, offering direct access to some of the park’s most breathtaking areas. Its remote setting amid rugged landscapes enhances its secluded feel, far removed from the bustle of urban life. Travelers can reach Interior by following Highway 44 through sweeping prairie vistas, leading to a destination where nature’s grandeur takes center stage.
