Region of South Dakota

BADLANDS

["This rugged area is known for its striking rock formations and fossil-rich layers, often associated with a nearby national park."]

The clue "Region of South Dakota" points directly to the Badlands, a well-known area in the state famous for its rugged rock formations and stark landscapes. The name comes from the Lakota people, who called it mako sica (meaning "bad lands") due to its harsh terrain and extreme weather. It’s now a national park, so the answer fits both geographically and culturally. No wordplay here—just a straightforward reference to a notable location.