More than 20 species of animals roam the grounds of Bear Country U.S.A. (13820 S. Hwy. 16, 605/343-2290, www.bearcountryusa.com [1], summer daily 8 a.m.–6 p.m., May and Sept.–Oct. daily 9 a.m.–4 p.m., closed in winter, adult $15, child $8, maximum charge $55 per vehicle), located about eight miles south of Rapid City [2] off of Highway 16.
The first part of the park is a drive-though wildlife-viewing area. Expect to get an intimate view of the over 200 bears on-site, as well as elk, reindeer, cougars, deer, bighorn sheep, and other North American mammals on this three-mile drive-through adventure. Animal habitat is carefully designed to give the animals an environment much like they would experience in the wild. It takes about two hours, with many stops, to travel the loop.
At the end of the drive, stop at the Wildlife Center and Babyland, which houses baby animals and smaller animals that would not be visible otherwise. A very large gift shop features souvenirs, art prints, mugs, and other items, most of which follow a wildlife theme.
Links:
[1] http://www.bearcountryusa.com
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/mt-rushmore-the-black-hills/mount-rushmore-and-the-central-hills/rapid-city