Photo: Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary
Photo: Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary
Photo: Jake Meyer
Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary
★4.5(203 reviews)$$Nature
🕑 2.5-3 hours including the guided bus tour👶 Best for ages 5 and up. The 2-3 hour bus tours require sitting still for extended periods, making it ideal for school-age children who can appreciate the wildlife viewing and educational aspects. Older kids and teens fascinated by horses or conservation will be particularly engaged.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
Experience the majesty of wild horses running free across 11,000 acres of pristine South Dakota prairie at this incredible conservation sanctuary. Guided bus tours take families into the heart of the habitat where you'll witness herds of mustangs in their natural environment while learning about wild horse preservation and the sanctuary's rescue mission.
Highlights
- ✓Seeing wild mustang herds running freely across stunning canyon and prairie landscapes
- ✓Learning about wild horse rescue and conservation efforts from knowledgeable guides
- ✓Spotting different horse breeds and colors among the 600+ horses on the sanctuary
- ✓Photography opportunities with breathtaking views of horses against dramatic Cheyenne River valley backdrops
- ✓Understanding the history of American wild horses and their importance to our heritage
Pro Tips
- 1.Book your bus tour in advance as they fill up quickly, especially during summer months and only run on specific days
- 2.Bring binoculars for kids to spot horses in the distance and get a closer look at the herds
- 3.Dress in layers and bring hats - the open-air bus tours can be sunny and dusty, with temperature changes throughout the ride
- 4.Pack snacks and water as the tours are lengthy and there are limited food options at the sanctuary
- 5.Ask your tour guide about the individual horses' rescue stories - kids love hearing about specific animals and their journeys to the sanctuary
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM tours) during late spring or early fall for the best weather, smaller crowds, and most active horses. Summer can be very hot, and tours don't run on weekends.
What to Know
Tours require reservations and typically cost around $30-40 per person with discounts for children. The sanctuary is about 45 minutes south of Rapid City near Hot Springs, and the bus tours cover rugged terrain, so strollers aren't practical.
Seasonal Notes
Tours operate primarily spring through fall with limited winter availability. The sanctuary is closed on weekends year-round. Best viewing is typically May through October when weather is favorable and horses are most visible. Always call ahead to confirm tour schedules.
Nearby Eats
Stop at Mornin' Sunshine Coffee House in Hot Springs (15 minutes away) for breakfast and kid-friendly lunch options, or visit Vault Craft Food & Drink for burgers and comfort food that pleases all ages.
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