Epic South Dakota Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Day

Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, South Dakota on April 9, 2025

3:00 PM

Check-in at KOA Resort

Settle into your comfortable cabin or campsite surrounded by tall pines and the beauty of the Black Hills.
USD70, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Explore the Resort

Take a stroll through the KOA grounds, check out the amenities, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings with a campfire under the stars.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at the KOA Campstore

Enjoy a casual dinner at the campstore with delicious BBQ burgers and fresh salads, perfect after a long drive.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 2: Mount Rushmore Visit

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota on April 10, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at KOA

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the KOA featuring pancakes, eggs, and fresh coffee.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Mount Rushmore

Experience the iconic monument up close, learn about its history and significance at the visitor center.
USD10, 2-3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Carver's Cafe

Enjoy a classic American lunch with burgers and sandwiches at the onsite café while taking in views of the monument.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Hiking in the Area

Explore nearby trails such as the Presidential Trail for breathtaking views of the sculpted faces.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to KOA

Unwind after a busy day, perhaps with a game of mini-golf or relax around the campfire.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at the KOA Campstore

Indulge in a pizza dinner shared around the campfire, a perfect way to bond with fellow travelers.
USD18, 1 hour
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Day 3: Travel to Craigmont

Craigmont, Idaho on April 11, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at KOA

Fuel up with a breakfast platter of omelets, toast, and fruit to energize your travel day.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Craigmont

Enjoy a scenic drive through Idaho's rolling hills and picturesque countryside as you head to Craigmont.
USD50 (gas), 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Craigmont Cafe

Savor a delightful lunch of homemade soup and sandwich combos from this cozy local spot.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Check-in at Hotel

Get settled at your hotel and refresh before exploring the local area.
USD85, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Craigmont

Take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Craigmont, visiting local shops and community landmarks.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Local Diner

Enjoy a home-style dinner at a local diner, featuring hearty entrées and friendly service.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 4: Explore Craigmont

Craigmont, Idaho on April 12, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Start your day with a warm breakfast at a beloved local cafe, famous for its blueberry pancakes.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Local Parks

Spend the morning at Craigmont's serene parks, perfect for a stroll or enjoying the fresh air.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Fork

Relish a flavorful lunch at The Fork with fresh salads and artisan sandwiches.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Craigmont Museum

Explore the local history at the Craigmont Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the area.
USD5, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Free Time

Enjoy some leisure time to unwind or catch up on reading in your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Sapphire’s Bistro

Taste the distinct flavors of local cuisine in a laid-back yet elegant dining atmosphere.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Craigmont Adventures

Craigmont, Idaho on April 13, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a complimentary breakfast at your hotel, featuring pastries and fresh fruit.
Free, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Outdoor Activities

Engage in outdoor adventures like hiking or biking in the surrounding hills.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch Picnic

Prepare a picnic lunch using fresh local ingredients to enjoy in a scenic spot.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Local Vineyards

Experience a wine tasting at a nearby vineyard and learn about the winemaking process.
USD15, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Hotel

Relax and freshen up at the hotel before dinner.
Free, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Local Steakhouse

Treat yourself to a delicious steak dinner with all the classic sides at Craigmont's renowned steakhouse.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 6: Badlands Adventure

Badlands Interior Motel and RV Park, South Dakota on April 14, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Joe's Diner

Grab a quick breakfast at Joe's Diner known for their hearty omelets and great coffee.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Badlands

Embark on your road trip towards the Badlands, enjoying the shifting landscapes along the way.
USD30 (gas), 2 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Badlands National Park

Experience the park’s unique geological formations and wildlife on a scenic drive or hike.
USD30 (entry fee), 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge

Relish a delicious lunch with stunning views of the Badlands, featuring local specialties.
USD15, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Check-in at Badlands Interior Motel

Get settled at your motel before continuing the adventure.
USD85, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Sunset at Badlands

Watch the sunset illuminate the eroded rock formations in incredible colors—a truly memorable sight.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Badlands Grill

Dine at the local grill, where you can savor American comfort food after a long day of exploration.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Return to Aberdeen

Aberdeen, South Dakota on April 15, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Motel

Enjoy a light breakfast at the motel featuring coffee and pastries.
USD8, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Aberdeen

Pack up and head to Aberdeen, reflecting on the wonderful adventures of your trip.
USD30 (gas), 2 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at Ruby Tuesday

Have a satisfying lunch at Ruby Tuesday, choosing from a variety of fresh garden salads and entrees.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore Aberdeen

Spend your afternoon visiting local sights and shops in Aberdeen to conclude your trip.
Free, 3 hours

4:00 PM

Final Dinner at The Market

Enjoy a final dinner at The Market with locally sourced ingredients, a great way to wrap up your adventure.
USD25, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Departure

Check out and depart, carrying cherished memories from this epic adventure.
Free, 1 hour
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