6 caves in South Dakota run public tours. Here is what each one is like and how to visit.
Updated 2026-10-22. 5 of 6 checked in full against official sources.
A national park cave known for its boxwork formations, seen only on ranger-guided tours that start at the visitor center.
Hot Springs, SD, from $16
A national monument protecting a cave with over 220 miles of known passages, the fifth longest in the world, seen only on guided tours.
Custer, SD, 49°F inside, from $16
A seasonal show cave near Nemo in the Black Hills, open in summer, staying 47°F inside.
Nemo, SD, 47°F inside, from $22
A cave on Highway 44 west of Rapid City with a one-hour tour of all three levels or a half-hour Crystal Tour.
Rapid City, SD, from $21.50
A cave 5 miles east of Keystone at Rush Mountain Adventure Park, with a one-hour guided walking tour at 58°F and a belly-crawling spelunking tour.
Keystone, SD, 58°F inside
We're still confirming the visitor details for these. Their official sites have current prices and hours.
Privately operated
| Cave | Inside | Adult ticket | Run by |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wind Cave National Park | not yet checked | $16 | National park / federal |
| Jewel Cave National Monument | 49°F | $16 | National park / federal |
| Wonderland Cave | 47°F | $22 | Privately operated |
| Black Hills Caverns | not yet checked | $21.50 | Privately operated |
| Rushmore Cave | 58°F | not yet checked | Privately operated |
| Crystal Cave Park | not yet checked | not yet checked | Privately operated |
6 show caves run public tours. We leave out wild caves that are closed, gated or need a permit.
Closed shoes with grip, because paths are often wet. Most caves stay between the high 40s and low 70s °F all year, so a light layer is enough.
