Tucked away in the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park, Sheep Mountain Table Road is an off-road gem in South Dakota, offering a breathtaking mix of dramatic landscapes, challenging terrain, and solitude. Known for its high-elevation views of the Badlands and surrounding grasslands, this unpaved backcountry road is perfect for adventure seekers looking to explore one of the most striking regions in the Midwest.
Whether you're driving a 4x4 truck, Jeep, or high-clearance SUV, this route provides an unforgettable off-road experience with panoramic vistas and rugged natural beauty.
Where is Sheep Mountain Table Road?
Sheep Mountain Table Road is located in the Buffalo Gap National Grassland, on the southwestern edge of Badlands National Park. It lies near the town of Scenic, South Dakota, offering a remote and quiet escape from the more frequently visited areas of the park.
- Nearest Town: Scenic, SD (approximately 20 miles away)
- Nearest Major City: Rapid City, SD (about an hour’s drive)
- Access Point: Off of Pennington County Road 589
What Makes Sheep Mountain Table Road Unique?
1. Stunning Badlands Overlooks
Sheep Mountain Table offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region. The road leads to an elevated plateau, giving visitors a chance to soak in sweeping views of the Badlands' eroded cliffs, deep canyons, and multi-colored rock formations.
2. Remote and Uncrowded
Unlike the main Badlands National Park roads, this trail is far less traveled, making it a perfect destination for those looking to experience nature in solitude. You might go miles without seeing another vehicle.
3. Moderate Off-Road Challenge
The road is rough, unpaved, and often rutted. While it is passable in dry conditions, rain can make it extremely muddy and impassable. Some sections feature deep washouts and steep inclines, making a high-clearance 4x4 recommended for tackling the route.
4. Rich in History
This area is significant to the Lakota Sioux, who have long considered the Badlands sacred land. The rugged, untouched landscape remains one of the most historically and culturally significant areas in South Dakota.
What Vehicles Can You Bring?
Sheep Mountain Table Road is best suited for:
- 4x4 vehicles (Jeeps, trucks, SUVs)
- High-clearance vehicles
- Dual-sport or adventure motorcycles (in dry conditions)
Not suitable for:
- Low-clearance passenger cars
- RVs or trailers
- Heavy off-road rigs (due to tight sections)
What to Bring
-
Navigation Tools
- GPS apps like Gaia GPS or OnX Offroad
- A paper map as a backup (cell service is unreliable)
-
Recovery Gear
- Tow straps, traction boards, and a full-size spare tire
-
Plenty of Water & Snacks
- No services or water sources are available along the road
-
Weather-Appropriate Gear
- The Badlands can be scorching in summer and freezing in winter
-
Emergency Supplies
- First aid kit, flashlight, and an extra fuel can
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Sheep Mountain Table Road is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the road is dry.
- Spring (March–May): Wildflowers bloom across the grasslands, and the temperatures are comfortable.
- Summer (June–August): Hot and dry, with temperatures over 100°F. Bring extra water.
- Fall (September–November): Crisp air and beautiful golden landscapes make for an ideal time to visit.
- Winter (December–February): The road can be icy, snow-covered, or completely impassable.
Avoid the road after rain—Badlands clay turns into a slick, impassable mess when wet.
Nearby Amenities & Camping
Camping Options
- Dispersed Camping: Allowed in Buffalo Gap National Grassland, with several pull-off sites nearby.
- Cedar Pass Campground: Located inside Badlands National Park, with bathrooms, picnic tables, and stunning views.
- Badlands Boondocking Sites: Several free BLM camping areas are just outside the park.
Lodging Nearby
- Badlands Inn (Interior, SD) – Closest hotel option.
- Hotels in Rapid City, SD – About an hour away, with more options for dining and lodging.
Fuel & Food
- Closest Gas Station: Located in Scenic, SD (limited hours). Top off your tank before heading in!
- Groceries & Supplies: Available in Rapid City.
Tips for Driving Sheep Mountain Table Road
- Check the weather before heading out. Rain makes the road impassable.
- Drive slow and be cautious. The road is rough, with some steep drop-offs.
- Let someone know your plans. Cell service is unreliable.
- Respect the land. Stay on designated trails and pack out all trash.
Permits & Costs for Sheep Mountain Table Road
No permits or entrance fees are required to drive Sheep Mountain Table Road. Since the road is located within Buffalo Gap National Grassland and not directly inside Badlands National Park, it is free to access for all visitors.
However, if you plan to visit Badlands National Park, regular park entrance fees apply:
- Private Vehicle: $30 (valid for 7 days)
- Motorcycle: $25
- Annual Badlands Pass: $55
Nearby Towns for Amenities & Services
Since Sheep Mountain Table Road is in a remote area, there are few services nearby. Here are the closest towns for fuel, lodging, and food:
Scenic, SD (20 miles away)
- A very small town with limited amenities
- Occasional fuel availability (double-check before relying on it)
- No major restaurants, but there may be small roadside shops open seasonally
Interior, SD (35 miles away)
- Closest town with basic services
- Cedar Pass Lodge & Restaurant – Food and lodging
- Gas station (check hours, as they can be limited)
Wall, SD (50 miles away)
- Larger town with more services
- Wall Drug – Famous roadside attraction with food and supplies
- Multiple gas stations and convenience stores
- Hotels & motels available
Rapid City, SD (65 miles away)
- Major city with full amenities
- Numerous hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, and auto repair shops
- Best place to stock up on supplies before heading to the trail
Final Recommendation: Be Self-Sufficient!
- Fuel up before heading out – nearest gas can be unreliable
- Bring extra food & water – services are very limited near the trail
- No cell service in many areas – have an offline map or GPS
Why You Should Visit Sheep Mountain Table Road
Sheep Mountain Table Road is a hidden gem for off-road enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers. With jaw-dropping Badlands scenery, challenging terrain, and peaceful solitude, it offers an off-road adventure that’s truly unique.
If you're looking for a less-traveled, awe-inspiring route through South Dakota's Badlands, this is the trail for you. Load up your 4x4, bring plenty of supplies, and get ready to experience one of the most scenic backcountry roads in America!
