National Monument
Jewel Cave National Monument is a National Monument in South Dakota. The NPS currently lists 2 active alerts, 0 campgrounds and 1 visitor center, and no entrance fee.
South Dakota National Monument No entrance fee
Updated · NPS Data API
“Immerse yourself in one of the longest caves in the world. With over 220 miles of mapped and surveyed passages, this underground wilderness appeals to human curiosity. Its splendor is revealed through fragile formations and glimpses of brilliant color.”
Active alerts
2
Closures
0
Campgrounds
0
Visitor centers
1
2 active NPS alerts as of Oct 28, 2026: 0 closures, 0 danger, 0 caution and 2 information.
Information
Advance cave tour reservations up until October 31st are available. November reservations will become available on October 1st. Reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations full? Choose a day to come to the park early in the day to purchase a same day cave tour ticket.
Posted or updated Aug 31, 2026 ·Details on nps.gov
Information
Visitors are required to wear completely enclosed shoes if participating in a cave tour, like tennis shoes, sneakers or hiking boots. Any type of sandals or shoes with any openings are NOT acceptable.
Posted or updated Jun 22, 2022 ·Park conditions on nps.gov
This site has no entrance fee, according to NPS fee data.
This park is cashless — bring a card or buy your pass online.
Ranger-guided tours are required to enter Jewel Cave, and the various tours are offered at scheduled times, which vary by season. With four different tour options, there is something for all skill levels and interests.
Year-round Reservation required Fee applies
There are many opportunities for exploring on the surface at Jewel Cave National Monument. The 1,279 acre park is located in a Ponderosa pine forest, easily seen along the short Roof Trail.
Year-round
The Historic Area has a picnic area, the Historic Cabin built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and the Historic Entrance to Jewel Cave.
Year-round
See all 6 things to do in Jewel Cave →
Activities the NPS lists for Jewel Cave.
CavingGuided ToursHikingJunior Ranger ProgramSnowshoeingWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark FilmShoppingBookstore and Park Store
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Jewel Cave National Monument is a day-use area and is available for outdoor recreation on a daily basis throughout the year.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 8:30AM - 4:30PM |
| Wednesday | 8:30AM - 4:30PM |
| Thursday | 8:30AM - 4:30PM |
| Friday | 8:30AM - 4:30PM |
| Saturday | 8:30AM - 4:30PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Weather: Weather in the Black Hills varies significantly throughout the year and may be drastically different from the northern hills to the southern hills.
| Visitor center | Standard hours | Phone | Passport stamp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jewel Cave National Monument - Visitor Center | Mon Closed · Tue 8:30AM - 4:30PM · Wed 8:30AM - 4:30PM · Thu 8:30AM - 4:30PM · Fri 8:30AM - 4:30PM · Sat 8:30AM - 4:30PM · Sun Closed | 6056738300 | Yes |
No NPS campgrounds are listed for this site. Nearby national forests or state parks may offer camping.
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Badlands National ParkLewis & Clark National Historic TrailMinuteman Missile National Historic SiteMissouri National Recreational RiverMount Rushmore National MemorialWind Cave National ParkAll in South Dakota
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