2015 Map of Badnation

About this map

The White River winds through this rural South Dakota landscape, defining the jagged border between Mellette, Jones, and Lyman counties. This 2015 survey reveals the sparse settlement patterns of the region, anchored by the community of Badnation in the southwestern corner. The terrain is deeply etched by a network of drainage systems, including Williams Cr, Louis Cr, and Oak Cr, which feed into the primary river valley. Human presence is marked by a handful of established ranch roads like Perry Ranch Rd and River-Side Dr. Cultural and genealogical history is concentrated near Pumpkin Rd, where both Saint Catherine Cem and Rosebud Cem are located. The map illustrates how local transportation and land use are dictated by the dramatic contours of the river breaks and the high plains surrounding them.