Morning: Depart Deerwood, MN early in your camper, enjoying the scenic drive through the Midwest and into Wyoming; stop for lunch in Sioux Falls to break up the drive. Afternoon: Continue toward the park, arriving at the Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch for check‑in and campsite setup. Evening: Settle into your camper, enjoy a campfire dinner and stargazing in the pristine Teton night sky.
Book a HotelMorning: After a hearty breakfast, stroll into downtown Jackson Hole to explore its western‑style boutiques and art galleries. Afternoon: Visit the Jackson Hole Historical Museum and grab a local lunch at a steakhouse before heading back to the campground. Evening: Return to the campground for a relaxing evening by the fire, perhaps spotting wildlife near the camp’s edges.
Book a HotelMorning: Drive to Snow King Mountain for a scenic chair‑lift ride followed by a thrill on the mountain coaster, enjoying panoramic views of the Tetons. Afternoon: Take the short hike to Rendezvous Park to see the iconic troll statues and enjoy a picnic. Evening: Return to Flagg Ranch for a relaxed camp dinner and stargazing.
Book a HotelMorning: Begin the day with a hike around Jenny Lake, taking the boat shuttle (optional) for a quicker start. Afternoon: Hike the trail to Hidden Falls, a short but rewarding trek with waterfall views and a chance for a quick swim in the lake. Evening: Return to the campsite, freshen up, and enjoy a quiet evening by the campfire.
Book a HotelMorning: Drive to Phelps Lake for a morning swim and daring cliff‑jump for adventurous members; the lake’s turquoise water is perfect for a dip. Afternoon: Head into the Cascade Canyon trail for wildlife spotting, including bison, elk, and possibly bears, while enjoying spectacular canyon vistas. Evening: Return to the campsite for a hearty dinner and a night walk to see nocturnal wildlife.
Book a HotelMorning: Drive to Morning Glory geyser basin for a serene sunrise among steaming vents. Afternoon: Continue to Old Faithful for a classic geyser eruption, followed by a visit to the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring and its boardwalk trail. Evening: Conclude at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone for spectacular sunset views over the canyon and its iconic waterfalls.
Book a HotelMorning: Pack up the camper at Flagg Ranch and begin the journey eastward, crossing the scenic Teton Range. Afternoon: Stop for a quick lunch in Casper before entering South Dakota; arrive at Custer State Park for campsite check‑in. Evening: Unwind with a short walk in the park, enjoying the sunset over the Black Hills.
Book a HotelMorning: Drive to the Badlands National Park for a scenic drive and short hikes on the Badlands Loop to capture dramatic rock formations. Afternoon: Continue to Devils Tower for a climb (if desired) and a walk around the base for its iconic shape. Evening: Camp near the Tower for a night under the stars, with the tower illuminated at dusk.
Book a HotelMorning: Visit Mount Rushmore early to avoid crowds, explore the visitor center and the sculptures. Afternoon: Head to Sylvan Lake for a paddle‑boat ride or a relaxing lakeside picnic. Evening: Drive the scenic Needles Highway for dramatic rock spires and stop for a sunset viewpoint before returning to the campsite.
Book a HotelMorning: Hike to Elk Peak for panoramic views of the Black Hills and a moderate challenge. Afternoon: Return to camp for a leisurely afternoon, perhaps exploring nearby wildlife or taking a short bike ride. Evening: Enjoy a final campfire dinner, reflecting on the journey.
Book a HotelMorning: Pack the camper and begin the drive back toward Minnesota, making a quick stop at a local diner for lunch. Afternoon: Continue the drive, enjoying the changing scenery of the Great Plains. Evening: Stop at a charming small town for an overnight stay at a local RV park, rest and replenish supplies.
Book a HotelMorning: Finish the final leg of the journey, crossing into Minnesota and heading toward Deerwood. Afternoon: Arrive home, unload the camper, and unwind after the adventure. Evening: Celebrate the successful trip with a family dinner and share photos.
Book a HotelTotal Estimated Cost: $489
If you wish to extend the trip, consider adding an extra day in Yellowstone to explore the lesser‑known Lamar Valley for more wildlife, or spend a full day at the Grand Tetons for a sunrise boat ride on Jackson Lake. To shorten the itinerary, skip the cliff‑jump at Phelps Lake and combine the Badlands and Devil’s Tower visits into a single day with a quicker drive, allowing an earlier departure back home.