Sitting Bull Crystal Cavern

Sitting Bull Crystal Cave was discovered in 1929 by Alex and Mamie Duhamel and their sons, Bud and Pete. They found the cave on their property in Rockerville Gulch.

  • One of the premiere tourist spots outside Rapid City, Sitting Bull Crystal Caverns is along US-16 West on the way to Mount Rushmore. 
  • Diamond Lake’s reflective waters and crystals, the French Chandelier and Rainbow Arch are just a few of the fascinating features you’ll see while touring the Caverns. 
  • $10.50/adult, $6/child, children under 6 are free. 
  •  Open May through September.

Just outside of Rapid City and conveniently on the way to Mount Rushmore, it’s hard to think of a reason not to stop at Sitting Bull Crystal Cave. The passageways are filled with crystals, geodes and other speleothems, and the spectacular reflecting pool of Diamond Lake alone makes the trip worthwhile.

History

Sitting Bull Crystal Caverns has been family owned and operated by the Duhamel family since 1929, when the cave was first explored. Since then, the cave has shared a long and successful history with the local Lakota tribe, which sells authentic Native American artwork and crafts in the gift shop. The name Sitting Bull Crystal Cavern was chosen by a Lakota medicine man in honor of the famous Sitting Bull.

Tours

Sitting Bull Crystal Caverns guided tours last about 45 minutes and involve strenuous climbing. During the tour, you’ll visit Diamond Lake and the Crystal Palace, make your way through the Ghost Chamber, and see countless beautiful cave formations. In addition to pointing out formations and special sites, guides share the history and stories surrounding the cave.

Tours leave throughout the day, with the last tour beginning one hour before closing.

Prices

Tour prices are $10.50/adult and $6/child. Children 6 and under are free.

Location and Hours

Sitting Bull Crystal Caverns is just 10 minutes from the center of Rapid City, 8 miles south along US-16 West on the way to Mount Rushmore.

The Cave is open from 8-8, June-August and from 8-6, May and September.

For more information about Sitting Bull Crystal Cave, call 605-342-2777 or visit www.sittingbullcrystalcave.com.

View the local providers:

Sitting Bull Crystal Cave : Rapid City, SD
Website  | Phone : (605) 342-2777

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