Drive through 200 acres of wildlife sanctuary at Bear Country USA and safely experience black bears, elk, and more. Perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Rapid City.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
No physical exertion required; suitable for all fitness levels since you remain in your vehicle.
Wildlife
History
Bear Country USA was founded in 1987 and has grown into one of the premier drive-through wildlife parks focusing on North American species.
Conservation
The park actively participates in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation programs and promotes educating visitors about habitat preservation.
Bear Country USA
Drive through 200 acres of wildlife sanctuary at Bear Country USA and safely experience black bears, elk, and more. Perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Rapid City.
Bear Country USA is a drive-through wildlife park located in Rapid City, South Dakota, offering visitors a chance to encounter North American animals from the safety of their own vehicles. The park’s General Admission experience guides guests through roughly 200 acres of open habitat in the Black Hills, where black bears, elk, and other native species roam and interact in expansive enclosures. Visitors remain inside personal vehicles while animals move freely nearby, providing close-up wildlife viewing without exposing guests to direct contact.
The park focuses on presenting animals in large, naturalistic settings that prioritize visible space and movement. The General Admission drive-through is designed to let guests observe feeding and natural behaviors at a comfortable distance, making it suitable for a wide range of experience levels. Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts can capture authentic moments from vehicle windows while following posted safety guidelines.
Located near Rapid City, Bear Country USA provides a distinctive alternative to traditional walking zoos by combining scenic Black Hills landscapes with a self-paced driving route. The experience emphasizes observation and appreciation of North American species such as black bears and elk, giving visitors context for regional wildlife and habitat dynamics. Practical information, including admission options and park hours, is available from Bear Country USA for planning visits. The drive-through format offers an accessible way to experience close wildlife encounters without leaving the comfort of a vehicle.
The available trip is General Admission, a drive-through route that showcases animals across the 200-acre park in Black Hills.
Location
Rapid City, SD
Located near the Black Hills.
Park Size
200 acres
Drive-through habitat area.
Experience Type
Drive-through
Stay in your vehicle for viewing.
Wildlife
Black bears & elk
Close-up North American species.
Drive through 200 acres of North American wildlife — check General Admission details and park information before arriving.
Stay Inside Your Vehicle
For your safety and the animals’ well-being, always remain inside your car while driving through the park.
Bring Binoculars
Binoculars enhance wildlife viewing, helping you spot animals hidden among the trees or at a distance.
Plan for Traffic Delays
The drive-through route can get busy during peak times, so allow extra time to enjoy the experience without rushing.
Follow Posted Speed Limits
Drive slowly and carefully within the park to avoid disturbing the animals and ensure everyone’s safety.
Binoculars
Ideal for spotting animals at a distance and enhancing your viewing experience.
Camera with Zoom Lens
Capture close-up wildlife photos safely from inside your car.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during warm weather visits.
summer
Warm Jacket
Fall and spring mornings can be chilly while driving through the park.
fall