Hot Springs National Cemetery

You can place fresh cut flowers on your loved one's grave throughout the year.

Floral items will be removed from graves when they become faded or unsightly. They may also be removed to allow mowing.

You can place artificial flowers on graves from the second Saturday in October through the second Sunday in April, when we do not mow the grounds. Artificial flowers are also allowed the Thursday prior to Easter, Memorial Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day and the Fourth of July. They will be removed the following Sunday after the holidays.

Holiday wreaths less than 18 inches in diameter and no higher than the headstone may be placed on graves beginning on Thanksgiving. Floral grave blankets may not be used. Holiday wreaths will be removed January 15.

Floral items or decorations may not be secured to headstones.

In-ground floral containers may not be placed in new cemeteries or new sections of national cemeteries.

To preserve the dignity and appearance of your loved one's final resting place, the following items aren't allowed at headstones or columbariums:

• Alcoholic products
• Balloons, candles, or vigil lights
• Decorative and breakable glass, plastic items, or objects
• Non-government supplied floral containers (pots, planters, glass vase, etc.)
• Objects such as rocks or other durable items, that when mowing or performing maintenance could become projectiles
• Offensive items or those deemed contrary to honoring Veterans
• Permanent in-ground plantings
• Pinwheels or windchimes
• Statues or stuffed animals
• Weapons of any kind, explosives, or ammunition

Weapons Policy
VA regulations 38 CFR 1.218 prohibit the carrying of firearms (either openly or concealed), explosives or other dangerous or deadly weapons while on VA property, except for official purposes, such as military funeral honors.

Possession of firearms on any property under the charge and control of VA is prohibited. Offenders may be subject to a fine, removal from the premises, or arrest.

This cemetery is managed by the Director of the Black Hills National Cemetery, 20901 Pleasant Valley Drive, Sturgis, SD.

Directions from Nearest Airport
From Rapid City Regional Airport, travel State Highway 44 West 9 miles to Rapid City. Then travel South on State Highway 79 for 52 miles to junction of 79 and 385. Turn right on Highway 385 and travel 5 miles to Hot Springs. Turn right on 5th Street and travel until you come to a T. Turn right at the T onto Veteran Administration Road, take the right to VA Cemetery Road and then turn left at the first intersection onto Cemetery Access Road.