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Epic RV Journey: Mount Rushmore to Custer State Park and the Badlands

Viewed by 85 travelers

Day 1: Arrival at Mount Rushmore

Keystone, South Dakota on April 9, 2025

3:00 PM

Check-in at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort

Kick off your journey by settling into your spot at this conveniently located RV resort, perfect for families and travelers.
USD65, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Explore the Resort

Take time to enjoy the amenities such as the playground and pool, or just relax and soak up the beautiful Black Hills scenery.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at the KOA Campstore

Grab a simple but hearty meal at the on-site Campstore, featuring burgers and local craft beers.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 2: Visit Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota on April 10, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Campstore

Start your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich and coffee from the Campstore before heading out.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Observe the View at Mount Rushmore

Spend the morning at this iconic national monument, taking in the grandeur of the carved faces and learning about its history.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Carver's Cafe

Enjoy casual American fare with a view of the monument, perfect for refueling after a morning of exploration.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Visitor Center

Take the time to explore the museum and exhibits detailing the creation of this American landmark.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Nature Walk

Enjoy a short hike on one of the scenic trails in the area, admiring the surrounding beauty of the Black Hills.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ruby House Restaurant

Indulge in a hearty meal of traditional steak and local icons, in a historic setting that reflects the Wild West.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Custer State Park

Custer, South Dakota on April 11, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Campstore

Fuel up with a breakfast burrito before packing up your RV for the journey ahead.
USD10, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Custer State Park

Enjoy a scenic drive to Custer State Park, approximately 1-hour driving time while enjoying the stunning vistas along the way.
n/a, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Check-in at Custer State Park Campground

Settle into your campground within Custer State Park for a nature-filled experience.
USD40, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at the Campground

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amid nature or dine at the park's café when available.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Wildlife Loop Road

Take a leisurely drive along Wildlife Loop Road to catch glimpses of bison, elk, and deer that roam freely.
USD20, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at the Buglin' Bull Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring local game dishes and classic American cuisine in a rustic environment.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Custer State Park

Custer, South Dakota on April 12, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Campground

Start your day with breakfast cooked right at your campsite in the fresh mountain air.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Hiking at Cathedral Spires

Take a hike on the breathtaking Cathedral Spires Trail, where you'll encounter stunning rock formations.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Custer Park Cafe

Refuel with a delightful lunch full of local flavors and offerings at this cozy spot.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Sylvan Lake

Relax with a leisurely stroll around Sylvan Lake and consider renting a canoe to paddle on the water.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at the Campground

Wind down with another night around the campfire, enjoying grilled sausages and roasted vegetables.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Craigmont

Craigmont, Idaho on April 13, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Campground

Cook up a hearty breakfast before hitting the road towards Craigmont.
USD10, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Craigmont

Enjoy the scenic drive to Craigmont, taking around 5 hours with breaks for photos and enjoyment.
n/a, 5 hours

3:00 PM

Check-in at Craigmont Campground

Settle into your campground for the next few days and enjoy the amenities available.
USD40, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Explore Craigmont

Take a leisurely walk through the small town and visit local shops to get a taste of local culture.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at the Country Kitchen

Enjoy a great selection of homestyle meals featuring local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
USD25, 1 hour
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Day 6: Local Exploration Day

Craigmont, Idaho on April 14, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Home

Prepare an easy breakfast in your RV, starting your day at your convenience.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Leisurely Hike at Craig Mountain

Take a nearby hike at Craig Mountain. The trails offer beautiful views and a chance to experience local wildlife.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Corner Cafe

Savor a light lunch including sandwiches and milkshakes in this classic diner-style eatery.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Local Farms

Visit nearby farms to learn about agriculture in the area, season permitting.
Free, 3 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Local Bar & Grill

End the day with a casual meal while enjoying the local nightlife and friendly atmosphere.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Travel to Badlands

Badlands National Park, South Dakota on April 15, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Home

Prepare your final meal in Craigmont in your RV for an exciting drive ahead.
USD10, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Drive to Badlands National Park

Take your time driving, making stops for photographs of the picturesque landscapes you’ll encounter.
n/a, 5 hours

3:00 PM

Check-in at Badlands Interior Motel and RV Park

Arrive and settle in at this convenient park located right outside the National Park entrance.
USD50, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Explore Badlands National Park

Venture into the park for an evening drive, catching the stunning sunset over the dramatic rock formations.
USD30, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at the Park’s Campground

Enjoy a relaxing meal around the campfire, featuring grilled steaks and fresh salads.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Explore the Badlands and Return Home

Badlands National Park, South Dakota on April 16, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Motel

Fuel up for your return trip with a hearty breakfast at the motel, including pancakes and coffee.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Morning Hike at Badlands

Experience the park in the morning light, taking a guided hike or walking one of the many trails available.
Free, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Break for lunch at a nearby café, enjoying daily specials and local favorites.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Drive Back to Aberdeen

Make your way back to Aberdeen, reflecting on the beautiful memories of your trip. The drive will take approximately 5 hours.
n/a, 5 hours
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