Devils Tower National Monument

Devils Tower National Monument

In Wyoming, Devils Tower National Monument carries the national monument designation, a status given to sites whose scientific, cultural, or scenic value merits federal protection. The Tower is an astounding geologic feature that protrudes out of the prairie surrounding the Black Hills. It is considered sacred by Northern Plains Indians and indigenous people.

Hundreds of parallel cracks make it one of the finest crack climbing areas in North America. Devils Tower entices us to learn more, explore more and define our place in the natural and cultural world.

National monument status protects Devils Tower National Monument as a site of scientific, historical, or scenic significance. The designation tends to focus attention on a single feature or story, which is part of what makes these visits rewarding.

Key Highlights

• Explorers and Expeditions
• Native American Heritage
• Presidents
• Schools and Education
• Group Camping
• Front-Country Hiking
• Junior Ranger Program

Getting There

Reaching Devils Tower National Monument is straightforward once you know the route. The park entrance is located 33 miles northeast of Moorcroft, 27 miles northwest of Sundance, and 52 miles southwest of Belle Fourche, SD. If approaching from the east or west, take US Hwy 14 to WY 24 (follow the signs from I-90). If approaching from the north, take WY 112 to WY 24 (from Montana) or SD 34 / WY 24 (from South Dakota).

By Car

Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or rental car. Road conditions vary with weather and construction, so check the park's alerts page the day before you travel. Pay attention to GPS directions in rural stretches—some apps route drivers onto unmaintained service roads rather than the signed park entrance.

Nearest Airports

Regional airports provide the most convenient access for long-distance travelers. For the most current airline service and driving distances, cross-reference flight options with the park's contact page. Budget extra drive time from any airport, especially if you arrive after dark or during winter weather.

Public Transit and Tours

Direct public transit is limited at most National Park Service sites, but guided day tours and shuttles sometimes operate from nearby cities during peak season. Rideshare options are often reliable in gateway towns but may drop off outside the park boundary rather than at specific trailheads or visitor centers.

For turn-by-turn directions and current road status, consult the park's official directions page: http://www.nps.gov/deto/planyourvisit/directions.htm.

Best Time to Visit

Weather shapes every visit. Obtain forecast information before beginning your adventure at Devils Tower National Monument and observe changing weather conditions. Thunderstorms can develop quickly bringing lightning, hail, rain, slippery rock surfaces, and hypothermia. Summer days can bring very hot temperatures. Carry enough water, and realize the rock of the Tower can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter weather can bring blowing snow and road closures. Check local forecasts and road conditions before visiting.

Spring (March – May)

Spring offers wildflowers, mild temperatures, and manageable crowds before the summer peak.

Summer (June – August)

Summer means longer days and fuller ranger programming, balanced by heat and higher visitation. Start early to beat both.

Fall (September – November)

Fall is often the sweet spot—cooler temperatures, sharper light for photography, and fewer visitors on trails.

Winter (December – February)

Winter brings solitude and, in many regions, a different character to the landscape. Expect reduced hours at some facilities.

Activities and Adventures

Activities at Devils Tower National Monument reflect the character of the site. The options below are drawn from the park's current published list—confirm availability and any required reservations before planning around a specific activity.

• Astronomy — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Stargazing — ask at the visitor center for current conditions, reservations, and any required permits.
• Camping — check campground availability and reservation windows in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Car or Front Country Camping — check campground availability and reservation windows in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Group Camping — check campground availability and reservation windows in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
• RV Camping — check campground availability and reservation windows in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Climbing — follow posted route guidelines and weather windows; some areas have seasonal closures for wildlife.
• Rock Climbing — follow posted route guidelines and weather windows; some areas have seasonal closures for wildlife.
• Hiking — trails range from short interpretive loops to longer, more demanding routes; match your choice to conditions and fitness.
• Front-Country Hiking — trails range from short interpretive loops to longer, more demanding routes; match your choice to conditions and fitness.
• Junior Ranger Program — schedules rotate seasonally; check the visitor center board on arrival for the current lineup.
• Wildlife Watching — dawn and dusk are the most productive viewing windows; bring binoculars and maintain a respectful distance.
• Birdwatching — dawn and dusk are the most productive viewing windows; bring binoculars and maintain a respectful distance.

Ranger-led programs are often the highest-value activity for first-time visitors, combining interpretation with access you might miss on your own. Check program schedules at the visitor center on arrival.

History and What to See

Devils Tower National Monument is primarily a site of historical and cultural significance. Beyond the headline landmarks, the park preserves smaller details—inscriptions, outbuildings, period plantings, wayside exhibits—that repay an unhurried visit.

Featured interpretive themes include Explorers and Expeditions, Native American Heritage, Presidents, Schools and Education, Transportation, Roads, Routes and Highways.

Interpretation and Programs

Ranger talks, living-history demonstrations, and self-guided audio tours bring the story to life. If your schedule allows, time your visit to catch at least one ranger-led program; the added context transforms what you see on the grounds.

Preserved Structures and Landscape

The National Park Service preserves the physical setting as faithfully as possible. Walking the grounds gives you a sense of scale—distances, sightlines, elevation—that is hard to appreciate from photos alone.

Research and Archives

Many historic sites maintain libraries, archives, or partnered research centers. If you have a specific interest, contact the park in advance; staff can often point you toward documents, oral histories, or special collections.

Lodging and Camping

Lodging strategy depends on how long you plan to stay at Devils Tower National Monument and what you want to do when you are not at the park.

Camping

The park offers camping as a recognized activity. Reservation systems, site availability, and amenities vary by campground, so confirm current rules at the park's website before arrival. Popular sites often fill during weekends and holidays; weekday visits increase your chance of first-come, first-served spots.

Gateway Towns and Nearby Lodging

Communities close to the park offer a mix of chain hotels, independent inns, vacation rentals, and—depending on location—bed-and-breakfasts. Several Wyoming towns serve as convenient bases, with restaurants, fuel, and grocery resupply. Book well ahead for summer weekends and major holidays.

Operating Hours and Seasons

Park Hours: Park roads and trails are open 24 hours/day. This visitor center bookstore is open on a limited basis. The Belle Fourche River Campground is open mid-May to mid-October.

Essential Information

Fees and Passes

• Entrance - Private Vehicle — $25.00: Fee for a single, private, non-commercial vehicle and all its passengers. Note: In summer it's a good idea to arrive at the entrance station before 10 am or after 4 pm to avoid congestion and find better parking options.
• Entrance - Motorcycle — $20.00: Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers. Note: In summer it's a good idea to arrive at the entrance station before 10 am or after 4 pm to avoid congestion and find better parking op…
• Entrance - Per Person — $15.00: Admits one individual when entering on foot or bicycle. Individuals 15 years of age or younger are admitted free. This may also be used to calculate cost for organized non-profit groups (service organizations, scout groups, religious groups…
• Commercial Entrance - Sedan — $25.00: These entrance fees are based upon the seating capacity of the commercial tour vehicle - not the actual number of passengers. The fee is $25 plus $15/person, not to exceed $40.

Passes

• Annual Entrance - Park — $45.00: A great option if you visit more than twice a year.

Contact

• Phone: 3074675283
• Email: deto_interpretation@nps.gov
• Official site: https://www.nps.gov/deto/index.htm

Safety

Carry water, sun protection, and layered clothing appropriate for the season. Cell coverage can be spotty in parts of the park—download offline maps before you leave your lodging. In an emergency, dial 911 or contact the nearest ranger station.

Services and Accessibility

Main visitor centers typically offer accessible restrooms, interpretive exhibits, bookstore sales, and ranger assistance. Accessibility varies by building and trail; contact the park ahead of time to discuss specific needs. Pets are often allowed on leash in designated areas only—check current rules before bringing animals.

Regulations to Know

Drones are prohibited in nearly all National Park Service units without a special permit. Metal detecting, collection of natural or cultural objects, and off-trail travel in sensitive areas are also commonly restricted. Read the signs at each trailhead and ask a ranger if you are unsure.

Visitors who spend time with the interpretation at Devils Tower National Monument leave with more than they expected. That extra context is why the monument was set aside.