The Badlands

There are very few rules in the Badlands

In most of the bigger parks, you’ll see signs warning of death all around you. In Yellowstone, “STEP OFF THE PATH AND YOU WILL FALL INTO A THERMAL VENT AND DIE.” In Glacier, “BEARS ARE EVERYWHERE AND FEED PURELY ON HUMAN FLESH.”

Not in the Badlands. Want to climb that rock formation? Go ahead. Go off trail? Sure. The few signs posted said, “Don’t step on any rattlesnakes, we’re not going to come get you, have fun.”

And what fun indeed. From the east entrance, a vast desert and small rock formations slam up against a plateau that rises up like the Wall in Game of Thrones. A climb to the top reveals grasslands, animals, and rocks of every shape and size. And sunset at the Badlands may be the very best on earth.

The Badlands also introduced me to the concept of Boondocking. I had no idea there were breathtakingly stunning places all around you where you could just… park… for free.

The first time, it didn’t seem real, or legal, but sure enough, I pulled up and there were a few other cars, with plenty of space to slot in right at the edge of a cliff. It was one the most beautiful views you could have. And it cost zero entire dollars. Peaceful. beautiful. Shockingly cost effective.

Not too Bad at all.