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National Monument

Jewel Cave National Monument

InformationSep 1, 2026

Cave Tour Reservations

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The target room inside Jewel Cave.

The target room inside Jewel Cave.

Photo: NPS Staff Photo

About

Immerse yourself in one of the longest caves in the world. With over 220 miles of mapped and surveyed passages, this underground wilderness appeals to human curiosity. Its splendor is revealed through fragile formations and glimpses of brilliant color. Its maze of passages lures explorers, and its scientific wealth remains a mystery. This resource is truly a jewel in the National Park Service.

Activities

CavingGuided ToursHikingJunior Ranger ProgramSnowshoeingWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark FilmShoppingBookstore and Park Store

Directions

By car: Jewel Cave National Monument is located 13 miles west of Custer, South Dakota and 24 miles east of Newcastle, Wyoming on U.S. Highway 16. The monument is about 54 miles from Rapid City, South Dakota via U.S. Highway 16 / 385. By plane: The nearest major airport, Rapid City Regional Airport, is 63 miles away.

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Weather

Weather in the Black Hills varies significantly throughout the year and may be drastically different from the northern hills to the southern hills. The temperatures listed are for average lows to average highs in the location of Custer, South Dakota. Spring ~ Temp. Range of 29°F to 53°F / Summer ~ Temp. Range of 54°F to 80°F / Fall ~ Temp. Range of 33°F to 58°F / Winter ~ Temp. Range of 14°F to 37°F The yearly average rain is 19 in., with May being the wettest month. The yearly average snow is 48 in.

News

Jewel Cave National Monument to Host Native American Heritage Day
Oct 21, 2026

Jewel Cave National Monument to Host Native American Heritage Day

Jewel Cave National Monument invites the public to a free Native American Heritage Day event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the monument’s visitor center. The event will feature music, dance and storytelling in recognition of Native American Heritage Month.

Jewel Cave National Monument Hosts Naturalization Ceremony Welcoming 12 New U.S. Citizens
Sep 16, 2026

Jewel Cave National Monument Hosts Naturalization Ceremony Welcoming 12 New U.S. Citizens

On Sept. 11, 2026, Jewel Cave National Monument hosted a naturalization ceremony for 12 new citizens in partnership with the United States District Court, District of South Dakota and the Denver Field Office of the Department of Homeland Security. 

Jewel Cave Announces Operations for 2026 Winter Season
Sep 1, 2026

Jewel Cave Announces Operations for 2026 Winter Season

Jewel Cave National Monument is changing its operations for the winter season. Starting Tuesday, September 8, the monument will be open Tuesdays to Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.