Bear Country USA
Drive-through wildlife park in South Dakota offering close encounters with bears, wolves, elk, and more.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Bear Country USA
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive-through wildlife park in South Dakota offering close encounters with bears, wolves, elk, and more.
"It was truly a one of a kind experience, seeing bears wander right alongside the vehicle."
🚗 Drive-Through Etiquette
Keep windows up and stay in your vehicle. Animals are wild! :warning:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll do a good amount of walking in the walk-through area. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bears Up Close
Drive-through loop
Witness bears roaming freely just feet from your vehicle – an unforgettable, thrilling encounter.
Baby Bear Playtime
Walk-through area
Adorable baby bears frolicking and swimming in their enclosures, a guaranteed delight for all ages.
Diverse North American Wildlife
Drive-through and walk-through
Spot bison, wolves, elk, pronghorn, and more in naturalistic habitats. A true wildlife showcase.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Drive-Through Wildlife Adventure
Walk-Through Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive-Through Etiquette
Keep windows up and stay in your vehicle. Animals are wild! :warning:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll do a good amount of walking in the walk-through area. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Camera Ready!
Capture amazing shots of animals right next to your car. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Courtesy Van
They offer a courtesy van if your vehicle isn't suitable, even for pets! :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive-Through Etiquette
Keep windows up and stay in your vehicle. Animals are wild! :warning:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll do a good amount of walking in the walk-through area. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Camera Ready!
Capture amazing shots of animals right next to your car. :camerawithflash:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Courtesy Van
They offer a courtesy van if your vehicle isn't suitable, even for pets! :dog:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially on hot days. Misters are available in some walk-through areas. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bear Country USA for its unique drive-through experience, offering incredibly close encounters with North American wildlife, especially bears. The walk-through area, featuring adorable baby bears, is also a major highlight. While the price is noted, most feel it's well worth the unforgettable and family-friendly adventure.
"Bear Country USA is a fantastic drive through wildlife park, you get to see a wide variety of animals up close, all from the comfort of your car. Along the route, we spotted bighorn sheep, bison, reindeer, pronghorn and of course, the bears. The highlight was definitely watching bears casually wander right alongside the vehicle, sometimes just a few feet from the doors. It was truly a one of a kind experience.
Admission is $24 per person, with a maximum of $80 per vehicle at the time we went in September. I definitely think it’s worth the price point. After the drive, the walk through area features even more animals, including timber wolves, bear cubs, porcupines, foxes and more. It’s definitely worth spending some time there before you leave.
The gift shop is well stocked with fun souvenirs and unique gifts. Overall, Bear Country USA is a must see in the Black Hills. It’s safe, family friendly and an unforgettable way to get close to wildlife. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area."
Liane Darby
"This was a spectacular experience! Both the drive through and walk through experiences were better than any zoo we’ve been to. The bears were especially fun. They wandered across the road while we got to see them up close and personal. The animals in the walk through area were all very active in the morning. The river otters were especially fun to watch. Ther gift shop was also very nice."
Special Ed
"We loved our visit to Bear Country USA! We didn’t realize we couldn’t take our Jeep with the soft top through the drive, but the staff was so kind and helpful — they provided us with a courtesy minivan that fit the whole family, including our dog. They even had a treat ready for our pup, which was such a thoughtful touch! The walk-through area was our favorite part. Seeing the baby bears up close was adorable, and the rocks with the misting features were a perfect way to cool down on such a hot day. Everything was clean, well-organized, and informative, making it a fun experience for both kids and adults. Highly recommend!"
Kristen “Wander & Nosh Mama” Wermerskirchen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bear Country USA is located just south of Rapid City, South Dakota. Take Highway 16 South for about 10 miles. The entrance will be clearly marked. Many visitors combine a trip here with other Rapid City attractions like Mount Rushmore.
Public transportation options are limited in this area. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle or rent a car for the best experience.
The park is designed as a drive-through experience first, followed by a walk-through area. You'll drive your own vehicle (or a provided one) through the main wildlife loop, then park and explore the walk-through exhibits on foot.
Yes, using a GPS or navigation app is recommended. Simply search for 'Bear Country USA' and it should guide you directly to the entrance.
Absolutely! Bear Country USA is often visited alongside Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Custer State Park, and the Badlands National Park, all within driving distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but typically it's around $24 per person, with a vehicle maximum of around $80. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
While advance booking isn't always required, it can be a good idea during peak season to secure your spot and potentially save time. Check their website for online ticket options.
Hours are seasonal and can change. Generally, they are open daily from spring through fall. Always verify the current operating hours on their official website before your visit.
While you can't bring your pet through the drive-through loop for safety reasons, they offer a courtesy minivan that fits the whole family, including your dog!
Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, or military personnel. It's worth checking their website or contacting them directly to inquire about any available promotions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see a wide variety of North American animals, including black bears, grizzly bears, wolves, elk, bison, reindeer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and more in the drive-through. The walk-through area features baby bears, timber wolves, porcupines, foxes, and other smaller animals.
Plan for at least 1-2 hours. The drive-through loop typically takes about 30-45 minutes, and the walk-through area can take another hour or more depending on how long you spend at each exhibit.
Yes, the walk-through paths are generally well-maintained and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, with some areas offering misters for cooling.
No, feeding the animals is strictly prohibited for their health and safety. Stick to observing them in their naturalistic habitats.
Mornings are often best as animals tend to be more active. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Bear Country USA has a gift shop that also offers drinks and snacks. You can purchase refreshments there to enjoy during your visit.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally allowed, which can be a good option for families or those on a budget. However, be mindful of keeping your vehicle clean.
The offerings typically include typical park fare like snacks, ice cream, and beverages. It's a good place to grab a quick bite.
While not explicitly mentioned as dedicated picnic areas, you can often find spots to enjoy your own packed lunch. Check with staff upon arrival for recommendations.
There isn't a full-service restaurant, but the snack bar and gift shop provide convenient options for food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The drive-through loop offers incredible opportunities to photograph animals right outside your window. The walk-through area also has great shots of baby bears and other exhibits.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in wildlife parks to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check the park's specific regulations regarding drones.
A telephoto lens is great for capturing animals from your car. For the walk-through, a versatile zoom lens or even a good smartphone camera will work well.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be discouraged in certain areas to avoid startling the animals.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light, creating beautiful golden hour shots. Midday sun can be harsh.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up. The courtesy van option is fantastic if your vehicle isn't ideal for the drive-through. The accessible pathways in the walk-through make it easy for strollers, and the misting stations offer a welcome cool-down on hot days. It's a safe, engaging, and educational experience that creates lasting memories.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Consider visiting in the morning to beat the crowds and see animals at their most active. The park offers a unique perspective on North American wildlife that complements the historical and geological attractions of the region. Don't forget your camera to capture the incredible moments!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The walk-through area also offers excellent photo ops, particularly of the baby bears and other smaller animals. Experiment with different angles and settings to capture the essence of each creature. The best light is typically during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon, so plan your visit accordingly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Drive-Through Experience
It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals, and safety is paramount. Visitors are strongly advised to keep their windows rolled up and refrain from feeding the animals. The park provides a courtesy minivan for those whose vehicles aren't suitable for the drive-through, ensuring everyone can experience this remarkable journey. The drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes, allowing ample time to observe and photograph the diverse fauna.
Many visitors rave about the sheer proximity to the animals, describing it as a 'once-in-a-lifetime' experience. The naturalistic enclosures aim to mimic the animals' native environments, providing a more authentic viewing experience. The park's commitment to conservation and education is evident throughout the drive, making it not just entertaining but also informative.
Exploring the Walk-Through Area
Beyond the adorable cubs, the walk-through features a variety of other fascinating creatures, including timber wolves, porcupines, foxes, and various bird species. The pathways are designed to be accessible, making it easy for strollers and wheelchairs to navigate. On warmer days, visitors can find relief in misting stations strategically placed throughout the area. This section provides a wonderful complement to the drive-through, offering a different perspective on the park's inhabitants and a chance to learn more about their individual species.
Reviewers often highlight the walk-through as a favorite part of their visit, praising the active nature of the animals in the morning and the overall cleanliness and organization of the exhibits. It's a great place to spend an additional hour or more, soaking in the details of each animal's habitat and behavior.
Photography Tips for Wildlife Encounters
When shooting from the car, try to position your vehicle so you have a clear line of sight. Be patient; animals often move unpredictably. If you're using a smartphone, try to get as steady as possible by bracing your phone against the window. For the walk-through area, a versatile zoom lens (like a 24-70mm) is ideal for capturing both wider habitat shots and closer portraits of animals like the baby bears.
Remember that natural light is your best friend. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most flattering light, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh and create blown-out highlights. Always be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography, as it can disturb the animals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit