We decided to stay just outside the park in the Badlands Inn. We tried to stay inside the park but all the cabins were filled. The Badlands Inn as well as the Interior Cabins are managed by the Park Service. We needed to get there by a certain time in order to get ammenities like ice for our room, otherwise you are left picking up your key from a drop box. The staff leaves in the early evening and returns in the early morning.
Our room was basic, clean and comfortable. The air conditioning worked well and was a welcome respite after spending the hot afternoon in the park. The views from the Inn were unbeatable. Breakfast in the morning was basic, but there was an option to eat breakfast at the lodge five minutes from the inn. The lodge had a more expansive breakfast selection.
Because we stayed so close to the park, it was just a short five minute drive back into the park at dusk to partcipate in the Night Sky Program. I cannot say enough about this program! I never saw so many stars! The milky way was in plain view by 9:30PM. Keeping in mind the formidable environment that makes up the Badlands, the Badlands Inn offers a civilized option for those who are not quite ready for camping.

The service was friendly but the room was not. The carpets were stained and dirty so we wore our shoes while inside too. The lamp cord was taped together and hanging over our heads when we went to bed. The window was Plexiglas and could easily be popped out of place. We had to be gentle with the door knob so it would not fall out. We were so grossed out by this room that we ended up sleeping in our sleeping bags. We admired the camp ground across from us wishing we would have camped instead.

We tried to get into the cabins inside the park but they were booked and we needed a place to stay so they suggested this place. It looks like an old strip motel upon driving up and there is no frills about it. It was clean and the staff were VERY friendly. Needs some TLC but it was a comfortable stay. No pool or much of anything. The comp breakfast was muffins, donuts, cereal, coffee, juice...no frills there neither but we felt comfortable eating it as the area was clean. I say if you can't get into the park to stay this is an ok second choice. I wouldn't recommend or not recommend this place.

Got lost in the darkness and ended up here after closing time. A young woman I met after closing time was very helpful and gave me a room. She also tried helping me getting my phone to work and, when it wouldn't, she called my family to let them know I was ok. Next morning another woman there followed me to Cedar Pass lodge so I could pay for the room. Then she helped me by describing the roads I should take to get to my destination, Manderson. Found my way easily after that.
I couldn't have been treated ib a better way. Thanks a lot to the wonderful staff from a lost Norwegian!!!