Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore and Beyond: Discovering the Hidden Stories of the Black Hills

Mount Rushmore is only the beginning. Discover the Black Hills’ iconic landmarks, scenic drives, wildlife, and hidden stories in this comprehensive RV travel guide.

Every great American road trip has places that become milestones—destinations travelers have dreamed about, photographed, and remembered for generations. In the Black Hills of South Dakota, few places carry that distinction more than Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

For many visitors, standing beneath the towering granite faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln is a moment they will never forget. The Avenue of Flags, the sweeping mountain backdrop, and the story behind the monument combine to create one of America’s most recognizable landmarks.

More than just a stop along the road, Mount Rushmore represents ambition, history, and the enduring stories that have shaped the nation. For generations of travelers, it has been a destination that inspires curiosity and invites exploration.

**For many travelers, the first glimpse of Mount Rushmore is a road trip moment that stays with them long after they leave the Black Hills.** *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Mount Rushmore: An American story carved in stone

The vision, ambition, and determination behind one of America’s greatest monuments

Few landmarks capture the imagination quite like Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Rising from the granite peaks of the Black Hills of South Dakota, the four presidential faces have become one of the most recognizable symbols of the United States.

For millions of visitors, the first sight of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln carved into the mountainside is unforgettable. But behind those massive granite faces is a story just as remarkable as the monument itself—a story of vision, engineering, perseverance, and the people who transformed an idea into reality.

A vision born in the Black Hills

The idea for Mount Rushmore began with South Dakota historian Doane Robinson who wanted to create a monument that would attract visitors to the Black Hills and celebrate the history of the region. His original concept focused on carving figures from the Old West into the landscape.

Robinson eventually turned to sculptor Gutzon Borglum whose ambition transformed the project into something far larger. Rather than focusing only on regional history, Borglum envisioned a monument that would represent the story of the United States itself.

He selected four presidents whose lives reflected important chapters in the nation’s development. George Washington represented the founding of the country. Thomas Jefferson symbolized expansion and the vision of a growing nation. Theodore Roosevelt represented America’s emergence as a world power and his role in conservation. Abraham Lincoln represented the preservation of the Union during the nation’s greatest internal crisis.

Together, the four figures were intended to tell a story of America’s beginnings, growth, challenges, and continuing aspirations.

Standing beneath the faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln is an unforgettable highlight of any visit to the Black Hills. *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Carving a mountain

Construction began on October 4, 1927, and continued for 14 years. Creating the monument required moving more than 450,000 tons of granite from the mountainside using dynamite, drills, and careful finishing work.

Nearly 400 workers participated in the project, many of whom spent their days suspended high above the ground as they removed rock and shaped the massive faces. Despite the dangers involved, the construction was completed without a worker losing their life.

The project was far from simple. Weather, funding challenges, and the sheer difficulty of carving a mountain created constant obstacles. Borglum continued refining his vision throughout the process but he died in 1941 before seeing the official completion of the memorial. His son, Lincoln Borglum, helped oversee the final work, and the monument was dedicated later that year.

What emerged from the granite was more than a sculpture. It became a place where visitors could reflect on the people and events that shaped the nation.

Understanding the Monument

Standing before Mount Rushmore today, it is easy to focus on the size of the faces—each one measuring approximately 60 feet tall. But the true story of the memorial is found in the combination of human imagination, technical skill, and determination that brought it to life.

Mount Rushmore is not simply a mountain carving. It is a snapshot of how Americans at a particular time chose to tell their national story. Like many historic places, it carries layers of meaning, inviting visitors to learn, reflect, and consider the many stories that make up the country’s past.

For RV travelers exploring the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore is more than a stop on the itinerary. It is a destination worth slowing down for—a place where understanding the story behind the stone makes the experience far more meaningful.

**Lined with the flags of the 50 states, the Avenue of Flags provides a dramatic approach to** Mount Rushmore National Memorial. *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Experiencing Mount Rushmore: Beyond the first view

Walking the trails, exploring the exhibits, and seeing the monument from a new perspective

For many visitors, the first glimpse of Mount Rushmore is the moment they have imagined for years. Walking through the Avenue of Flags and arriving at the Grand View Terrace, the four granite faces appear above the Black Hills in a way that is both impressive and almost difficult to comprehend.

But Mount Rushmore is not a place to simply arrive, take a photograph, and leave. The monument rewards visitors who slow down, explore the grounds, and take time to understand the details behind this extraordinary achievement.

Walking among the Presidents

One of the best ways to experience the memorial is the Presidential Trail, a 0.6-mile walking loop that provides changing perspectives of Mount Rushmore. The trail brings visitors closer to the base of the mountain and offers a different appreciation for the scale and craftsmanship of the carving.

The first section of the trail is paved and accessible from the Grand View Terrace to viewing areas near the mountain. The remaining portion continues toward the Sculptor’s Studio and includes 422 stairs, making it a more challenging walk for some visitors. Those who take their time are rewarded with closer views of the monument and a better understanding of the landscape surrounding it.

The trail is not simply about reaching another viewpoint. Along the way, interpretive signs explain the carving process, the four presidents represented, and the people who turned Borglum’s vision into reality.

**The Avenue of Flags leads visitors toward the towering granite faces of** Mount Rushmore National Memorial, creating an unforgettable first impression. *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Understanding the story behind the stone

The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center and Museum provide another layer to the experience. Exhibits explain the tools, techniques, and challenges involved in carving the mountain while displays introduce visitors to the workers who spent years transforming granite into a national symbol.

The Sculptor’s Studio offers additional insight into Gutzon Borglum’s work including the models and plans that guided the creation of the monument. Seeing the planning behind Mount Rushmore helps visitors appreciate that this was not simply a sculpture—it was an enormous engineering and artistic undertaking.

A different view at the end of the day

The evening lighting ceremony offers another way to experience Mount Rushmore. As the faces are illuminated against the darkness of the Black Hills, the monument takes on a different feeling. The ceremony provides a moment to reflect on the history represented by the four presidents and the generations of visitors who have stood in this same place.

For RV travelers, Mount Rushmore deserves more than a quick stop between destinations. Leave the motorhome at the campground, explore at your own pace, walk the trail, visit the exhibits, and take time to understand the story behind the stone.

The more you learn about Mount Rushmore, the more it becomes clear that the monument is not just something to see—it is something to experience.

The rugged beauty of the Black Hills extends far beyond Mount Rushmore inviting travelers to slow down and discover one remarkable landscape after another. *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Beyond Mount Rushmore: The larger story of the Black Hills

One monument opens the door to a landscape filled with many stories

Mount Rushmore is often the reason travelers make the journey to South Dakota’s Black Hills. It is the landmark that appears on postcards, inspires road trips, and creates memories that last a lifetime.

But the Black Hills have always been more than a backdrop for one monument. This landscape holds stories that reach far beyond the granite faces—stories of Native American heritage, wildlife and conservation, exploration, geology, and the people who have shaped this remarkable region.

For travelers willing to slow down, the Black Hills reveal a deeper experience. The roads beyond Mount Rushmore lead to places where history comes alive, wildlife still roams freely, and every turn offers another reason to stop and explore.

Mount Rushmore tells an important story of America. The places beyond it help complete the picture.

Crazy Horse Memorial: Another story of the Black Hills

Exploring the heritage and history beyond Mount Rushmore

Just 30 minutes from Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial offers visitors another perspective on the history and heritage of the Black Hills.

Begun in 1948 by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski at the invitation of Lakota elder Henry Standing Bear, the mountain carving honors Crazy Horse, the respected Oglala Lakota leader who resisted the loss of his people’s lands and way of life. More than seven decades later, the massive sculpture remains a work in progress.

The unfinished mountain carving is the centerpiece but the memorial offers more than a view of the mountain. The Indian Museum of North America and the Native American Educational & Cultural Center provide opportunities to learn about Indigenous art, history, and culture, adding another dimension to understanding the Black Hills.

A visit to Crazy Horse adds an important chapter to the story of this region. Mount Rushmore tells the story of four presidents and the nation they helped shape; Crazy Horse provides insight into the Native peoples, traditions, and history that were part of this landscape long before Mount Rushmore was carved into the mountain.

Driving the Wildlife Loop Road offers one of the Black Hills’ most memorable experiences with herds of bison roaming freely across the prairie. *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Custer State Park: Where the Black Hills come alive

Wildlife, bison, and the landscapes beyond Mount Rushmore

Just a short drive from Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park reveals a different side of the Black Hills. Here, the story is no longer carved into granite. It moves across the landscape in the form of roaming bison, grazing pronghorn, towering granite formations, and forests of ponderosa pine.

Covering more than 71,000 acres, Custer State Park is one of South Dakota’s signature destinations and one of the finest wildlife parks in America. It is a place where visitors are encouraged to slow down, put away the schedule, and experience the landscape at its own pace.

The Wildlife Loop Road: A drive with no guarantees

The 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road is one of the park’s most memorable experiences. Unlike a traditional wildlife viewing area, there are no guarantees about what you will see or when you will see it. Each drive is different which is part of the adventure.

The park is home to one of the largest publicly owned bison herds in North America, numbering around 1,400 animals. Seeing a herd of these massive animals moving across the prairie is one of the unforgettable moments of a visit to the Black Hills.

Along the loop, visitors may also encounter pronghorn, elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, prairie dogs, and the park’s famous burros that often approach vehicles looking for a friendly handout. The combination of wildlife and scenery makes the Wildlife Loop Road one of the best ways to experience the natural character of the Black Hills.

Watching a herd of bison move across the prairie is one of the signature experiences of a visit to Custer State Park. *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Bison herd: A conservation success story

The bison are more than a popular attraction. They represent a remarkable conservation story.

When Custer State Park was established in 1912, efforts began to protect and restore a healthy bison population. Today, the herd serves as an important example of wildlife management and conservation while also preserving a connection to the animals that once moved across the Great Plains in enormous numbers.

Each September, the annual Buffalo Roundup becomes one of South Dakota’s most celebrated events. Cowboys and cowgirls on horseback gather the herd for health checks, sorting, and management decisions that help maintain the long-term health of the animals and the park ecosystem.

For visitors, it is a rare opportunity to see a tradition that connects modern conservation with the historic role of the American bison in the West.

A park worth exploring slowly

Custer State Park is not a place to hurry through. The best experiences often come from unexpected moments — stopping to watch wildlife, taking a quiet turn along a scenic road, or simply sitting beneath the towering ponderosa pines and appreciating the landscape.

For RV travelers, the park is especially rewarding as a base for exploring the Black Hills. Several campgrounds are located throughout the park, allowing visitors to experience the area early in the morning and later in the day when wildlife is often most active.

Leave the motorhome or trailer at the campground and explore the park with your tow vehicle or passenger vehicle. The Wildlife Loop Road is best enjoyed without the stress of navigating a large rig.

Custer State Park reminds visitors that some of the greatest treasures in the Black Hills are not carved into stone. They are alive around you—moving across the prairie, standing among the forests, and waiting around the next bend in the road.

More than just a road, Needles Highway is an adventure through the heart of the Black Hills where the journey becomes part of the destination. *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Custer State Park: A scenic drive through Granite Country

Needles Highway, Sylvan Lake, and one of America’s unforgettable mountain roads

If the Wildlife Loop Road reveals the living side of Custer State Park, Needles Highway reveals its dramatic side. Winding through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Black Hills, this 14-mile scenic road is one of South Dakota’s most memorable drives and a reminder that sometimes the journey itself is the destination.

Completed in 1922, Needles Highway was considered an engineering achievement of its time. The narrow road follows a route through towering granite formations, forests of ponderosa pine, and dramatic mountain landscapes that seem to change around every curve.

The highway gets its name from the towering granite spires that rise from the landscape like giant needles pointing toward the sky. Among the most famous formations is the Needles Eye, a narrow granite pillar that has become one of the most photographed locations in the Black Hills.

A road built for exploration

The drive along Needles Highway is memorable not because of speed or distance but because of what appears around each bend. The road winds through several narrow tunnels carved through solid granite, creating moments where visitors suddenly emerge into sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

The most famous is Needles Eye Tunnel which measures approximately 8 feet wide and less than 10 feet high. Other tunnels along the route are similarly narrow, creating a unique driving experience that feels unlike most scenic roads in America.

For RV travelers, this is an important road to experience—but not in your motorhome. The narrow tunnels, tight curves, and limited maneuvering space make Needles Highway unsuitable for many larger vehicles. The best approach is to leave the RV at the campground and explore with a tow vehicle or smaller passenger vehicle.

**Whether you’re hiking, relaxing by the shore, or simply taking in the view,** Sylvan Lake **invites visitors to slow down and savor the beauty of the Black Hills.** *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Sylvan Lake: The crown jewel of Custer State Park

At the northern end of Needles Highway lies Sylvan Lake, often called the “Crown Jewel” of Custer State Park. Surrounded by massive granite boulders and forested hills, the lake is one of the most beautiful settings in the Black Hills.

Visitors can walk the shoreline, enjoy a picnic, rent a paddle boat, fish, swim, or simply sit among the rocks and take in the scenery. The lake also serves as a gateway for several hiking opportunities, including trails toward Black Elk Peak and the surrounding granite landscapes.

For those who have traveled the winding curves of Needles Highway, arriving at Sylvan Lake feels like a reward at the end of the journey.

Taking time to explore

The beauty of Custer State Park is that it cannot be experienced from behind the windshield alone. The Wildlife Loop reveals the animals that call this place home. Needles Highway reveals the forces of nature that shaped the landscape.

Together, they tell the story of a place where granite mountains, forests, wildlife, and winding roads come together in one unforgettable destination.

For RV travelers exploring the Black Hills, Custer State Park is more than a stop near Mount Rushmore. It is a reminder that some of the best discoveries happen when you slow down, take the scenic route, and allow the road to become part of the adventure.

The slender granite formations known as “the Needles” have been sculpted by millions of years of weathering into one of the Black Hills’ most iconic landscapes. *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

More stories waiting in the Black Hills

The journey does not end with Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park

The Black Hills are a region that rewards repeat visits and slow exploration. While Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park may be the places that first bring travelers here, they represent only part of what this remarkable landscape has to offer.

History comes alive in Deadwood where the legends of the Old West still echo through its streets. Beneath the surface, Wind Cave and Jewel Cave reveal a hidden world of underground passages and geological wonders. Along Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, towering limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and forested landscapes create one of the most beautiful drives in the Black Hills.

These destinations deserve more time than a passing mention. For travelers with additional days, they provide even more opportunities to understand the history, geology, and natural beauty of this region.

The Black Hills are not a destination to rush through. They are a place to return to, explore slowly, and discover one story at a time.

The journey continues

The Black Hills reward those who stay a little longer

Mount Rushmore has earned its place among America’s most iconic landmarks. Standing beneath the towering granite faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln is an experience that stays with visitors long after they leave.

But the true gift of the Black Hills is discovering that one remarkable place leads naturally to another.

The monument introduces travelers to the history and ideals represented by four presidents. Beyond it, the Black Hills reveal additional stories—the heritage celebrated at Crazy Horse Memorial, the wildlife and landscapes of Custer State Park, the winding roads through granite spires, and the many hidden places still waiting to be explored.

That is what makes this region such a rewarding road trip destination. Mount Rushmore is not diminished by everything that surrounds it. Instead, the surrounding landscapes and stories add depth and meaning to the experience.

For RV travelers especially, the Black Hills are a reminder that the best journeys are rarely measured by how quickly we arrive or how many attractions we check off a list. They are measured by the moments that encourage us to slow down, look closer, and understand the places we visit.

Mount Rushmore may be what brings travelers to the Black Hills but the stories beyond the monument are what make them want to return.

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Editor’s note

This article was originally published in August 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. Conditions, access, and amenities may change over time, so please verify current details before planning your trip.

To maintain transparency and editorial independence, this website contains no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just firsthand RV travel experiences and practical information for fellow travelers.

10 National Parks You Can Always Visit for Free

Discover the wild, historic, and breathtaking beauty of America without spending a dime. These 10 National Parks welcome you year-round offering adventure, serenity, and unforgettable experiences—all for free.

America is home to 63 National Parks and hundreds of additional National Park Service (NPS) sites offering everything from towering mountains and ancient forests to historic battlefields and desert vistas. These parks are the crown jewels of the U.S. drawing millions of visitors each year to marvel at their natural beauty and cultural significance.

But here’s the thing—exploring these treasures doesn’t always come with a cost. Many of the country’s most famous parks like Zion, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon charge hefty entrance fees—sometimes upwards of $35 per person. And during peak summer months, popular parks often require timed-entry reservations adding another layer of planning to your adventure.

The good news? Not every national park comes with a fee. In fact, several of the country’s most beautiful, historic, and awe-inspiring parks are always free to enter, no matter the season. From serene wetlands and misty mountain ranges to iconic monuments and hidden historical gems these parks offer an incredible experience without costing you a dime.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a cross-country road trip, or a solo adventure, these ten national parks provide the perfect opportunity to connect with nature, history, and adventure—all for free.

Understanding free access to National Parks

Unlocking America’s natural treasures without spending a cent

While many of America’s National Parks charge entrance fees some remarkable parks never do. These “always free” parks welcome visitors year-round with no charge for entry making them a perfect option for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the NPS without worrying about tickets or reservations.

It’s important to note that not all free opportunities are permanent. Many popular parks also offer occasional fee-free days throughout the year—typically six per year—allowing visitors to explore parks that normally charge admission at no cost. Check Why 2026 Fee-Free National Park Days Matter to RV Travelers for dates if you want to plan around these special events.

Even when entry is free, a trip to a national park still comes with other costs. You’ll need to budget for transportation, lodging or camping, food, gear, and any guided activities you might want to enjoy. But when it comes to exploring the park itself, these ten national parks let you come and go as you please without paying a dime offering a perfect mix of adventure, history, and natural wonder.

Discover these 10 always-free National Parks

Adventure awaits—no ticket required

From ancient forests to dramatic canyons and historic landscapes, these ten national parks prove that unforgettable adventures don’t have to come with an entrance fee. Each one offers its own unique slice of America’s natural and cultural heritage—completely free to explore.

Congaree National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Where towering trees meet tranquil waters

Whether you explore by water or on foot, Congaree National Park offers a unique, immersive experience in a rare and beautiful ecosystem—all without an entrance fee.

Why it’s special: Congaree National Park protects one of the largest remaining old-growth hardwood forests in the American Southeast. Towering loblolly pines and cypress trees rise straight from the water forming the tallest forest canopy east of the Mississippi River. This lush wetland ecosystem is a rare window into the region’s natural past.
Best time to visit: Winter, spring, and fall are ideal with mild weather, colorful foliage, and full rivers. Summers can be hot and buggy.
Special events: Every year from mid-May to mid-June, Congaree hosts a synchronized firefly display where thousands of fireflies flash in unison across the forest—a truly magical natural spectacle. A lottery is held each April for tickets to this event.
Annual visitors (2024): 242,049

Top activities

Paddle through the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail, a 15-mile route winding through majestic cypress trees.
Hike the Boardwalk Loop Trail or Weston Lake Loop to experience the forest on foot.
Explore the Oakridge Trail for a mix of hardwoods, wetlands, and wildlife.

Visitor info

Hours: Open 24 hours
Nearest city: Columbia, SC

Great Smoky Mountains National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina

Where misty mountains meet timeless beauty

Explore mist-covered peaks, lush forests, and historic homesteads in America’s most visited national park where every turn reveals a new natural wonder.

Why it’s special: The most visited national park in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a place of misty ridgelines, ancient forests, and extraordinary biodiversity. Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the park protects more than 500,000 acres of rolling mountains, deep valleys, and historic Appalachian landscapes. Its signature “smoky” haze—caused by natural gases released from the vegetation—gives the park an otherworldly feel.
Best time to visit: There’s truly no bad time to visit the Smokies. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery and waterfalls, fall delivers some of the most spectacular foliage in the country, and winter provides quiet trails and occasional snow-dusted peaks. Fall is the most popular season, so plan accordingly.
Why it’s free: Despite being the most visited national park in the country, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has never charged an entrance fee—a unique legacy tied to land donations and early agreements made when the park was established.
Annual visitors (2024): 12,191,834

Top activities

Drive the scenic Newfound Gap Road which cuts through the heart of the park
Explore Cades Cove, a historic valley filled with wildlife and preserved homesteads
Hike to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park
Tackle longer trails like Alum Cave Trail or Charlies Bunion for sweeping mountain views

Visitor info

Hours: Open 24 hours
Nearest cities: Gatlinburg, TN & Cherokee, NC

New River Gorge National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, West Virginia

Where rugged cliffs meet rushing waters

Experience thrilling adventures and breathtaking vistas along one of the oldest rivers in North America from rock climbing and whitewater rafting to scenic overlooks that stretch for miles.

Why it’s special: Carved by one of the oldest rivers on Earth, New River Gorge National Park blends rugged Appalachian beauty with world-class outdoor adventure. The park protects 53 miles of the New River as it cuts through steep sandstone cliffs creating a dramatic landscape of deep canyons, forested ridges, and rushing whitewater. It’s one of the most adventure-packed national parks in the country—and one of the newest earning national park status in 2020.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall offers the best conditions depending on your interests. Summer is ideal for rafting while fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Spring and early fall are also prime seasons for rock climbing and hiking.
Special event: Each October, the park hosts Bridge Day, a one-day festival celebrating the New River Gorge Bridge. It’s one of the only days each year when base jumpers are allowed to leap from the 876-foot-tall span drawing spectators from around the world.
Annual visitors (2024): 1,811,937

Top activities

Whitewater rafting on the New River, famous for its Class III–IV rapids
Hiking and biking along the Endless Wall Trail and Long Point Trail
Rock climbing on world-class sandstone cliffs
Scenic overlooks of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge

Visitor info

Hours: Open 24 hours
Nearest city: Fayetteville, WV

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Texas

Walking through history in the heart of Texas

Step into the life and legacy of the 36th president exploring his boyhood home, ranchlands, and the rich history of the Texas Hill Country.

Why it’s special: Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park offers an intimate look into the life and legacy of America’s 36th president set against the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country. Rather than focusing on monuments or grand buildings, this park tells a deeply personal story—one rooted in family, hard work, and the rural landscape that shaped LBJ’s character and political vision.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers or autumn color across the Hill Country. Summers can be hot but the wide-open ranchland and shaded historic buildings still make for an enjoyable visit.
Why it’s free: As a National Historical Park, all major sites within the LBJ complex are open to the public at no cost making it one of the most accessible presidential parks in the country.
Annual visitors (2024): 119,278

Top activities

Tour the LBJ Ranch including the Texas White House and Johnson family cemetery
Explore the Johnson Settlement where Lyndon Johnson spent his early years
Drive the scenic ranch roads that wind through pastures, oak trees, and the Pedernales River
Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site which connects seamlessly with the national historical park

Visitor info

Hours: Vary by site
Nearest city: Johnson City, TX

Mount Rushmore National Memorial *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

5. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Where history is carved in stone

Marvel at the iconic granite faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the Black Hills, a symbol of history, artistry, and national pride.

Why it’s special: Few landmarks in the United States are as instantly recognizable as Mount Rushmore. Carved into the granite face of the Black Hills, the 60-foot-tall sculptures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln symbolize the birth, growth, development, and preservation of the nation. The monument is both an artistic and engineering marvel drawing visitors from around the world.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather though summer can be busy. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening helps avoid crowds. Evening lighting ceremonies during the warmer months add an especially memorable experience.
Why it’s free: There is no entrance fee to Mount Rushmore National Memorial though a parking fee is charged. Once inside the memorial grounds, visitors are free to explore at their own pace.
Annual visitors (2024): 1,850,329

Top activities

Walk the Presidential Trail, a scenic loop offering close-up views of the sculpture
Visit the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center to learn about the monument’s creation
Attend the evening lighting ceremony (seasonal)
Explore the surrounding Black Hills including nearby hiking trails and scenic drives

Visitor info

Hours: Open daily; grounds generally accessible 24 hours
Nearest city: Keystone, SD

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

6. Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, Georgia

Unearthing centuries of history

Discover ancient earthworks and artifacts that tell the story of the Mississippian culture and the region’s rich Native American heritage.

Why it’s special: Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park preserves more than 12,000 years of continuous human history making it one of the most culturally significant sites in the southeastern United States. The park protects ancient earthworks built by the Mississippian culture including ceremonial mounds, earth lodges, and village sites that reveal the deep roots of Indigenous civilization in the region.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and lush scenery. Summers can be hot and humid while winter provides quieter conditions and unobstructed views of the historic mounds.
Why it’s free: As a protected National Historical Park, Ocmulgee offers free access to its grounds and exhibits ensuring public access to one of the most important archaeological landscapes in North America.
Annual visitors (2024): 141,905

Top activities

Walk the Earth Lodge, a reconstructed ceremonial building dating back over a thousand years
Explore the Great Temple Mound and surrounding village site
Visit the Ocmulgee National Monument Museum to view artifacts spanning 12,000 years of human history
Stroll the park’s riverfront trails along the Ocmulgee River

Visitor info

Hours: Open daily (hours vary by season)
Nearest city: Macon, GA

San Antonio Missions National Historic Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

7. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Texas

Where culture and history come alive

Explore the beautifully preserved Spanish colonial missions that showcase the rich cultural and religious history of the San Antonio region.

Why it’s special: San Antonio Missions National Historical Park preserves four 18th-century Spanish colonial missions that once formed the northern frontier of Spain’s vast empire in the Americas. These beautifully preserved sites—Mission Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada—tell the story of early colonial life, cultural exchange, and the blending of Spanish and Indigenous traditions. Together, they form the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal offering warm days and mild evenings perfect for walking or biking the mission trail. Summers can be hot but shaded courtyards and historic interiors provide welcome relief.
Why it’s free: As a unit of the National Park Service all mission grounds and visitor centers are open to the public at no cost allowing visitors to explore centuries of history without an entrance fee.
Annual visitors (2024): 1,278,777

Top activities

Tour the beautifully restored Mission San José often called the “Queen of the Missions”
Walk or bike the Mission Reach Trail which connects all four missions along the San Antonio River
Attend a service at Mission Concepción, one of the oldest unrestored stone churches in the U.S.
Learn about colonial life through ranger-led programs and exhibits

Visitor info

Hours: Vary by mission and season
Nearest city: San Antonio, TX

Saratoga National Historic Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

8. Saratoga National Historical Park, New York

Relive the moment that changed a nation

Step onto the grounds of the Revolutionary War’s turning point where history comes alive through battlefields, monuments, and scenic landscapes.

Why it’s special: Saratoga National Historical Park preserves the site of one of the most pivotal moments in American history—the 1777 Battles of Saratoga. Often called the turning point of the American Revolution, this decisive victory convinced France to ally with the American colonies dramatically altering the course of the war. Today, the park blends rolling farmland, wooded hills, and historic battlefield landscapes into a powerful place of reflection.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for exploring the park’s trails and historic sites. Autumn is especially beautiful with fall foliage adding color to the battlefield landscapes.
Why it’s free: As a National Historical Park, Saratoga offers free access to its grounds and most exhibits allowing visitors to explore one of the most significant military sites in American history without an admission fee.
Annual visitors (2024): 116,537

Top activities

Drive or bike the Battlefield Tour Road, a 9-mile loop through key historic sites
Climb the Saratoga Monument for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside
Explore the Visitor Center, featuring exhibits and artifacts from the Revolutionary War
Walk the peaceful trails through fields and forests where history unfolded

Visitor info

Hours: Open daily (hours vary seasonally)
Nearest city: Saratoga Springs, NY

Casa Grande Ruins National Historic Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

9. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Arizona

Where the desert holds ancient secrets

Explore the ancient “Big House,” a massive adobe structure built by the Hohokam people over 700 years ago and uncover the mysteries of prehistoric desert life.

Why it’s special: Casa Grande Ruins National Monument preserves one of the most remarkable prehistoric structures in North America—a massive, four-story earthen building constructed by the ancestral Sonoran Desert people more than 700 years ago. Built using caliche (a natural desert cement), the “Great House” stands as a testament to advanced engineering, astronomy, and community life long before European contact.
Best time to visit: Fall through spring offers the most comfortable temperatures as summers in the Sonoran Desert can be extremely hot. Early mornings and winter months provide the best conditions for exploring the site and learning from ranger-led programs.
Why it’s free: Casa Grande Ruins has been protected since 1892 and remains free to the public as part of the National Park Service’s mission to preserve significant cultural sites for everyone.
Annual visitors (2024): 104,429

Top activities

Tour the Great House, protected beneath a massive modern canopy
Walk the Casa Grande Ruins Trail which loops around ancient compounds and ball courts
Visit the museum and visitor center to learn about Hohokam culture and desert archaeology
Attend ranger talks explaining the site’s astronomical alignments and history

Visitor info

Hours: Open daily (seasonal hours may vary)
Nearest city: Coolidge, AZ

Cowpens National Battlefield *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

10. Cowpens National Battlefield, South Carolina

Step into a turning point in history

Walk the grounds of a pivotal Revolutionary War victory where history comes alive through preserved battlefields, monuments, and interpretive trails.

Why it’s special: Cowpens National Battlefield commemorates one of the most decisive American victories of the Revolutionary War. In 1781, American forces under Brigadier General Daniel Morgan defeated the British in a carefully planned battle that showcased strategy, courage, and the resilience of militia and Continental troops alike. The site preserves the battlefield, monuments, and rolling fields where history unfolded.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather for walking the battlefield and exploring the grounds. Summers can be hot and humid while winter offers quiet solitude and a reflective atmosphere.
Why it’s free: As a National Battlefield, Cowpens is open to the public at no charge giving visitors the chance to step back into history without an entrance fee.
Annual visitors (2024): 156,287

Top activities

Walk the battlefield trails with interpretive signs explaining troop movements and strategy
Visit the visitor center and museum for exhibits on the Revolutionary War and Cowpens’ significance
Explore monuments honoring the soldiers who fought and died in the battle
Attend ranger-led programs or living history events when available

Visitor info

Hours: Open daily
Nearest city: Gaffney, SC

Final thoughts: Explore America’s National Parks for free

Adventure, history, and beauty—no ticket required

From the towering trees of Congaree to the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, from revolutionary battlefields like Cowpens and Saratoga to the ancient earthen structures at Casa Grande Ruins, these ten national parks and historical sites prove that incredible experiences don’t always come with a price tag.

Visiting free parks allows you to immerse yourself in America’s natural beauty, cultural history, and adventurous landscapes without worrying about entrance fees. While travel, accommodations, and gear are still considerations, the freedom to explore these treasures at your own pace is priceless.

Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway, a family adventure, or a cross-country road trip, these parks offer unforgettable opportunities to connect with the past, enjoy the present, and create lasting memories—all without spending a dime. So pack your hiking boots, camera, or canoe, and start planning your next adventure to one of America’s always-free national parks.

Reflections on freedom, nature, and the open road

Where the road leads, curiosity follows

There’s something uniquely liberating about exploring these parks knowing that the beauty before you comes with no cost—only the invitation to slow down, breathe, and immerse yourself in the natural world. From the quiet waters of Congaree to the rugged cliffs and whitewater of New River Gorge, every park reminds us of the abundance of landscapes, history, and adventure that America offers.

For those traveling in an RV, these free national parks become gateways to freedom. You can wander off the beaten path, chase waterfalls, hike forests, or simply park under a canopy of stars—experiences that reconnect us to both nature and ourselves.

As Hilaire Belloc once wrote: “I have wandered all my life, and I have also traveled; the difference between the two being this, that we wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment.”

Visiting these parks isn’t just about seeing sights—it’s about embracing the richness of the journey, finding joy in the journey itself, and discovering that the best adventures are often freely given by the natural world.

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Share it with friends and your social network to inspire their next adventure!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in January 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.

Add a Bit of Pop Culture to Your Next Road Trip

Explore America’s iconic landscapes through the lens of movies, music, and classic moments on screen

The great American road trip has long been immortalized on film and in song—a celebration of freedom, discovery, and the open road. From Easy Rider’s counterculture quest to National Lampoon’s Vacation’s comedic chaos, pop culture has shaped how we dream of travel. Behind the wheel of your RV, you’re not just visiting national parks or roadside attractions—you’re rolling through movie sets, music history, and the backdrop of countless stories that define American adventure.

From the monumental drama of Mount Rushmore to the desert mystique of Joshua Tree these landscapes are more than beautiful—they’re cinematic icons. Whether you’re chasing film history, snapping selfies where legends once stood, or simply inspired by the songs that made these places famous your next RV journey can feel like a movie in motion.

So fire up your play list, cue your favorite travel film, and get ready to explore the real-life settings where pop culture meets the open road.

Mount Rushmore *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. Mount Rushmore: Carved in stone and in cinema

A monumental landmark and a cinematic symbol

Few landmarks carry the same cinematic weight as Mount Rushmore. Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest (1959) turned the monument into one of the most suspenseful chase scenes ever filmed with Cary Grant clinging to the faces of America’s presidents. More recently, National Treasure: Book of Secrets (2007) reimagined it as a hiding place for lost relics and secret chambers. The monument has since become shorthand for patriotism and grandeur—its likeness featured in everything from cartoons to comic books.

Why RVers will love it: The surrounding Black Hills are rich with history and scenery. Explore nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Wind Cave National Park all within easy driving distance. Stay at Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch (with shuttle service to the monument) or Heartland RV Park & Cabins in Hill City both offering full hookups, Wi-Fi, and easy access to scenic drives.

Grand Canyon *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

2. Grand Canyon: The Star of the southwest

Not only a breathtaking natural landmark but also a powerful cinematic icon

The Grand Canyon’s sheer scale and color make it irresistible to filmmakers. Thelma & Louise drove into legend here (though filmed at nearby Dead Horse Point), Clark Griswold stopped for a famously brief look in National Lampoon’s Vacation, and Transformers used its vastness for an epic alien showdown. The canyon has even inspired animation—its ridgelines and colors shaped the world of Pixar’s Cars and Up.

Why RVers will love it: Take the Desert View Drive or the Hermit Road Shuttle Route for breathtaking vistas. For overnight stays, the Trailer Village RV Campground inside the park offers full hookups and shuttle access to rim viewpoints. Outside the park, Grand Canyon Camper Village in Tusayan provides spacious sites, laundry, and easy access to visitor centers, IMAX, and restaurants.

Arches National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. Arches National Park: Red rock, big screen

Arches’s unique landscape offers filmmakers visually striking, otherworldly backdrops

The surreal sandstone formations of Arches have stood in for alien worlds, Old West trails, and desert hideouts. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade opens with young Indy’s chase through nearby arches, Thelma & Louise used its scenery for iconic driving shots, and Star Trek fans might recognize the red landscape from numerous desert planet scenes. The park’s 2,000 natural arches glowing at sunrise and sunset make it one of the most photographed places in America.

Why RVers will love it: Moab caters to travelers of all kinds. Enjoy restaurants, outfitters, and scenic drives through Arches and Canyonlands. Stay at Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway, Slickrock Campground, or Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground—each offers full hookups, Wi-Fi, and easy park access. Don’t miss the stargazing—Arches is an official International Dark Sky Park.

Dead Horse Point State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Dead Horse Point State Park: A cliffhanger classic

A cinematic favorite for filmmakers seeking to capture epic natural backdrops

Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point provided the jaw-dropping finale for Thelma & Louise’s “drive into the sunset.” The park’s sweeping canyons have since appeared in commercials, Westerns, and mountain bike films earning it a cult following among cinematographers. The views stretch across Canyonlands National Park especially dramatic at sunrise and sunset when the canyon walls glow deep red.

Why RVers will love it: Kayenta Campground inside the park offers 21 electric sites and dark-sky stargazing from your doorstep. For more amenities, stay nearby in Moab and drive up for day visits and photo ops. Hiking trails and overlooks are well-marked and perfect for sunrise photography.

Hoover Dam *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

5. Hoover Dam: Engineering marvel, movie icon

An engineering marvel & a popular movie icon

Few man-made structures have captured filmmakers’ imaginations like Hoover Dam. Featured in Transformers, San Andreas, Into the Wild, and Vegas Vacation it has symbolized human ambition and ingenuity for nearly a century. Its Art Deco design and towering face make it an unforgettable stop for travelers tracing movie history—or America’s engineering triumphs.

Why RVers will love it: Just minutes from Las Vegas, the dam offers guided tours that descend deep into its tunnels and power plant. Park your rig in Boulder City, a tidy, retro town built for the dam’s workers and stay at Lake Mead RV Village or Boulder Oaks RV Resort. The nearby Historic Railroad Trail offers panoramic views of Lake Mead and the dam itself.

White Sands National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

6. White Sands National Park: Dunes and dreamscapes

A unique and evocative location for film productions across genres

This sea of shining white gypsum dunes in southern New Mexico looks like another planet—so it’s no surprise filmmakers love it. Scenes from Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, The Man Who Fell to Earth, and test footage for Star Wars: A New Hope was filmed here. The park’s dazzling dunes and surreal silence create a dreamlike atmosphere that feels both alien and familiar.

Why RVers will love it: Explore the Dune Drive loop and bring a sled for a bit of fun. Stay nearby in Alamogordo at White Sands RV Community or Boot Hill RV Resort both offering big-rig-friendly sites, full hookups, and desert views. The park’s sunset glow is a must-see—and on full moon nights ranger-led hikes offer a cinematic experience of their own.

Petrified Forest National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

7. Petrified Forest National Park: The Painted Desert on film

The park’s unique palette of colorful badlands and petrified wood creates an evocative cinematic backdrop

A landscape frozen in time, the Petrified Forest has appeared in travel films, documentaries, and Route 66 retrospectives. The colorful badlands of the Painted Desert, fossilized logs, and vintage Route 66 relics (including a rusted 1932 Studebaker) make this park a time capsule of classic Americana. While not a major film set, its atmosphere embodies the backdrop of midcentury road-trip culture celebrated in films like Cars and Easy Rider.

Why RVers will love it: Drive the park’s 28-mile scenic road with overlooks, trails, and petroglyphs. Overnight RV camping isn’t allowed inside the park but Holbrook, Winslow, and Gallup offer full-service RV parks like OK RV Park and Root 66 RV Park both steeped in Route 66 nostalgia.

Joshua Tree National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

8. Joshua Tree National Park: Music, movies, and mystique

A lasting icon in American creative media

Equal parts wild and spiritual, Joshua Tree’s desert wonderland has starred in countless films and music videos. Its eerie rock formations, tangled yucca trees, and endless skies have appeared in Seven Psychopaths, Queen of the Damned, and Joshua Tree (1993). It’s also inspired generations of musicians—most famously U2, whose 1987 album The Joshua Tree made the park a symbol of desert solitude and transcendence.

Why RVers will love it: The park’s wide-open spaces are perfect for RV travelers seeking quiet and starlight. Stay at Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground (home to the Joshua Tree Music Festival) or Twentynine Palms RV Resort for full hookups, shade, and pool access. The nearby towns of Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley buzz with live music, vintage shops, and galleries.

9. New River Gorge: East coast epic with screen credit

A compelling backdrop for films spanning genres like action, drama, and romance

On the other side of the country, West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park and Preserve brings rugged adventure and cinematic drama to the Appalachian Mountains. The park’s soaring bridge and roaring whitewater have attracted both filmmakers and thrill-seekers. Scenes from Win a Date with Tad Hamilton! (2004) were filmed in nearby Fayetteville and the gorge continues to star in documentaries and outdoor adventure films.

Why RVers will love it: Whether you’re rafting Class V rapids, hiking cliffside trails, or watching BASE jumpers on Bridge Day this park delivers high-stakes drama worthy of the big screen. Stay at Adventures on the Gorge, ACE Adventure Resort, or New River Gorge Campground—all with stellar views and amenities for RV travelers.

Wigwam Motel, Holbrook, Arizona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

10. Pop culture stops beyond the screen

The magic of storytelling meets real-world exploration and fandom

Add musical rhythm and roadside nostalgia to your route. Visit Graceland in Memphis, tour Nashville’s Broadway honky-tonks, or swing through Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to honor America’s greatest hits. Along Route 66, stop for photos at the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, or the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona—each a slice of pop culture Americana preserved in neon and chrome.

Fun Idea: Create a “Pop Culture Road Trip Bingo” card—mark off every filming location, roadside oddity, and song lyric spot you encounter.

Similar reads

For readers interested in further exploring iconic filming locations and pop culture destinations beyond the screen

Road-trip must-sees: Pop culture highlights

1. Mount Rushmore: Carved in stone and in cinema

Movie highlights: North by Northwest, National Treasure: Book of Secrets
Why visit: Scenic drives, wildlife, caves, and Black Hills history
RV tip: Stay at Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch or Heartland RV Park & Cabins (Hill City)

2. Grand Canyon: The star of the southwest

Movie highlights: Thelma & Louise, Transformers, Into the Wild
Why visit: Epic cliffs, golden sunsets, cinematic vistas
RV Tip: Trailer Village RV Campground (inside park, full hookups) or base in Tusayan

3. Arches National Park: Red rock, big screen

Movie highlights: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Mission: Impossible II, 127 Hours
Why visit: 2,000 sandstone arches, dramatic desert skies
RV tip: Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway, Slickrock Campground, or Moab Valley RV Resort

4. Dead Horse Point State Park: A cliffhanger classic

Movie highlights: Thelma & Louise (the finale)
Why visit: Panoramic views of the Colorado River
RV tip: Kayenta Campground — electric hookups and canyon views

5. Hoover Dam: Monument of power and film

Movie highlights: Transformers, Superman (1978), Fools Rush In
Why visit: Massive Art Deco design, engineering marvel
RV tip: Boulder Beach Campground (Lake Mead)

6. White Sands National Park: Lunar landscapes & sci-fi legends

Movie highlights: Transformers, The Man Who Fell to Earth, Young Guns II
Why visit: Endless white gypsum dunes, otherworldly vistas
RV tip: Oliver Lee Memorial State Park or White Sands RV Community. Surf the dunes and watch the sunset glow.

7. Petrified Forest National Park: Timeless beauty on Route 66

Movie highlights: Documentaries, Route 66 travel features
Why visit: Rainbow badlands, fossilized logs, classic Americana
RV tip: Scenic 28-mile drive. Camp in Holbrook at OK RV Park or Root 66 RV Park

8. Joshua Tree National Park: Rock legends & road movies

Movie highlights: Seven Psychopaths, music videos
Why visit: Twisted yuccas, boulder formations, iconic desert scenery
RV Tip: Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground or Twentynine Palms RV Resort

9. New River Gorge: East Coast epic with screen cred

Movie highlights: Win a Date with Tad Hamilton!, adventure documentaries
Why visit: Soaring bridge, whitewater rafting, rock climbing
RV tip: Adventures on the Gorge, ACE Adventure Resort, New River Gorge Campground. Check out Bridge Day in October.

10. Pop Culture Stops Beyond the Screen

Music landmarks: Graceland (Memphis), Broadway (Nashville), Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland)
Quirky roadside stops: Cadillac Ranch (TX), Blue Whale (OK), Wigwam Motel (AZ)
Fun idea: Make a “Pop Culture Road Trip Bingo” card

Where to Stay: Campgrounds & RV parks

South Dakota: Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch, Heartland RV Park (Hill City)
Arizona: Trailer Village RV Campground (Grand Canyon), OK RV Park (Holbrook)
Utah: Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway, Slickrock Campground (Moab), Kayenta Campground (Dead Horse Point)
Nevada/Arizona: Boulder Beach Campground (Lake Mead)
New Mexico: Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, White Sands RV Community (Alamogordo)
California: Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, Twentynine Palms RV Resort
West Virginia: Adventures on the Gorge, ACE Adventure Resort, New River Gorge Campground

Closing thought

Every RV adventure tells a story—but when you layer in pop culture, you’re rolling through America’s imagination as well as its geography. From Rushmore’s granite gaze to the moonlit dunes of White Sands, these landscapes connect travelers to the stories, songs, and screen moments that continue to define the American dream. So pack your camera, set your soundtrack, and make your own cinematic memory—one mile at a time.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in December 2025. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.

Worth Pondering…

I think cinema, movies, and magic have always been associated. The very earliest people who made film were magicians.

—Francis Ford Coppola

The Complete Guide to Custer State Park

Traveling to the Black Hills in South Dakota and wondering what there is to see and do in Custer State Park? In this post, I cover all the main landmarks, hiking trails, and animal sightings that you can experience in Custer—the best things to do in Custer State Park.

Located in the rugged beauty of the Black Hills in South Dakota, Custer State Park emerges as a sanctuary of natural splendor and wildlife diversity. Encompassing over 71,000 acres, this iconic park is a testament to the breathtaking landscapes that define the region’s towering granite peaks, expansive rolling grasslands, and crystal-clear mountain waters.

Established as South Dakota’s first state park in 1912 and named in honor of Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer, the park weaves together a rich tapestry of history and untamed wilderness.

Home to a thriving population of wildlife including the iconic bison, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and more, Custer State Park beckons adventurers with its myriad trails, scenic drives, and the allure of its five pristine lakes. From the annual bison roundup to the historic Peter Norbeck Center, Custer State Park invites visitors to explore its diverse offerings, promising an immersive journey into the heart of one of South Dakota’s most cherished natural treasures.

Custer State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Features of Custer State Park

Iconic bison herd: Custer State Park is renowned for its resident herd of over 1,500 bison making it one of the largest publicly-owned herds in the world. The annual bison roundup (September 27, 2024) is a notable event attracting thousands of spectators and showcasing the park’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

Scenic drives: The park boasts two famous scenic drives—Needles Highway and Wildlife Loop Road. These routes offer breathtaking views of granite peaks, pristine lakes, and opportunities to witness wildlife including bison.

Diverse wildlife: Beyond bison, the park is home to a variety of wildlife species including prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, elk, deer, mountain goats, coyotes, river otters, pronghorn, cougars, and feral burros. This diversity attracts nature enthusiasts and provides unique opportunities for wildlife observation.

Outdoor recreation: Custer State Park offers a range of outdoor activities from hiking trails to water-based activities in its five picturesque lakes. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing while surrounded by the park’s natural beauty.

Historic contributions: The Park’s history is shaped by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) which played a vital role in the 1930s by building roads, campgrounds, and dams. The Peter Norbeck Center, a National Register of Historic Place, showcases the park’s natural history and cultural heritage through exhibits.

Expansive terrain: Covering over 71,000 acres, Custer State Park features diverse landscapes including rolling prairie grasslands and rugged mountains. The varied terrain contributes to the park’s scenic beauty and provides a habitat for its diverse wildlife.

The Needles, Custer State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Proximity to attractions: Situated in the Black Hills, the park is near other notable attractions such as Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park offering visitors a chance to explore the broader region.

Visitor center: The modern visitor center opened in 2016 serves as an informative hub offering insights into the park’s wildlife, history, and layout. Visitors can engage with exhibits and a short film to enhance their understanding of Custer State Park.

Annual events: In addition to the bison roundup the park hosts various events and programs including naturalist-led activities, festivals, and educational programs. These events provide visitors with unique opportunities to connect with the park’s natural and cultural offerings.

Preservation efforts: Custer State Park has a history of expansion and preservation with an additional 22,900 acres added in 1964. The park’s ongoing efforts focus on maintaining ecological balance and preserving the natural beauty that defines this South Dakota gem.

History

Established in 1912, Custer State Park located in the Black Hills of South Dakota holds a storied history as the state’s first and largest state park. The park’s origins trace back to a collection of sixteen sections of land which were later consolidated into one expansive block due to the challenges posed by the rugged terrain.

The 1930s saw a transformative period for the park, as the CCC played a pivotal role in constructing miles of roads, campgrounds, and dams. These efforts laid the foundation for the park’s growth and facilitated water recreation activities.

In 1964, an additional 22,900 acres were added further expanding its boundaries. Notably, the park is home to a herd of over 1,500 bison and the annual bison roundup initiated in 1965 has become a celebrated event drawing thousands of spectators. Today, Custer State Park stands as a testament to conservation efforts offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife diversity, and a rich tapestry of historical significance.

Importance of conservation and recreation for Custer State Park

Custer State Park holds a dual significance as a vital hub for both conservation and recreation. On the conservation front, the park’s expansive 71,000 acres serve as a haven for diverse wildlife playing a crucial role in the preservation of ecosystems unique to the Black Hills region.

The resident herd of over 1,500 bison alongside prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, elk, and various other species underscores the park’s commitment to biodiversity. The annual bison roundup not only captivates visitors but also stands as a carefully orchestrated conservation effort, ensuring the ecological balance of the park.

Additionally, Custer State Park’s historical role in the 1930s with the CCC constructing essential infrastructure exemplifies a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Simultaneously, the park’s recreational offerings from scenic drives like Needles Highway to hiking trails and water-based activities provide a dynamic and immersive experience for visitors.

Beyond its natural allure, Custer State Park’s proximity to other iconic attractions such as Mount Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park positions it as a cornerstone for tourism fostering an appreciation for the region’s natural beauty.

*Needles Highway, Custer State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Diverse vegetation and unique plant species

Ponderosa pine forests: Custer State Park is characterized by extensive stands of ponderosa pine forests contributing to the park’s scenic beauty and providing habitat for various wildlife species.

Aspen groves: Aspen groves dot the landscape especially in areas with higher elevations. These groves contribute to the park’s diverse and visually striking vegetation.

Prairie grasslands: The Park features expansive prairie grasslands showcasing a mix of native grass species that play a crucial role in maintaining the park’s ecosystem and supporting its diverse wildlife.

Wildflowers: Throughout the park, a vibrant display of wildflowers adds splashes of color to the landscape. These include species like lupine, fireweed, Indian paintbrush, and various others creating a visually appealing and ecologically significant environment.

Ferns and mosses: In shaded and moist areas, ferns and mosses thrive adding to the diversity of plant life within the park. These species are often found along streambanks and in the vicinity of the park’s lakes.

Black Hills spruce: This native evergreen species is part of the diverse forest composition contributing to the park’s unique plant community. The Black Hills spruce is well-adapted to the region’s climate and soil conditions.

Chokecherry and Saskatoon serviceberry: These shrub species are found throughout the park and are important for both wildlife and traditional uses. Chokecherries, in particular, are a vital food source for various bird species.

Alder thickets: Along waterways and in moist areas, alder thickets thrive. These dense shrub communities provide habitat for a variety of birds and small mammals.

Rocky Mountain juniper: Scattered throughout the park, the Rocky Mountain juniper is a hardy evergreen species that adds to the park’s diverse vegetation particularly in rocky or higher elevation areas.

Custer State Park’s diverse vegetation not only enhances its natural beauty but also plays a critical role in supporting the varied wildlife species that call the park home. The combination of forests, grasslands, and unique plant communities creates a rich tapestry of ecosystems within this South Dakota treasure.

Fauna

Bison: Custer State Park is renowned for its resident herd of over 1,500 bison making it one of the largest publicly-owned herds in the world. The annual bison roundup (September 27, 2024) is a spectacle that showcases the park’s commitment to wildlife management and conservation.

Prairie dogs: The Park is home to thriving prairie dog towns where these social rodents create intricate burrow systems. Their presence contributes to the park’s unique prairie ecosystem and provides a critical food source for various predators.

Bighorn sheep: Custer State Park supports a population of bighorn sheep with these iconic mammals often spotted on the rugged mountainous terrain. The park’s varied landscapes offer suitable habitats for their survival.

Elk: Elk can be found throughout the park especially in areas with a mix of forests and meadows. Their presence adds to the diversity of large herbivores in the region.

Pronghorns, Custer State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Mule deer: The Park is home to mule deer which are often seen in grassland and forested areas. These agile herbivores contribute to the park’s overall biodiversity.

White-tailed deer: White-tailed deer are prevalent in Custer State Park utilizing the diverse habitats including woodlands and open grasslands. Their adaptability to different environments makes them a common sight for park visitors.

Mountain goats: Adapted to the rocky terrain, mountain goats find suitable habitats in the park’s higher elevations. Their presence adds to the alpine character of certain areas within the park.

Coyotes: Thriving in a variety of environments including prairies and woodlands, coyotes are common in Custer State Park. They play a role in controlling rodent populations and contribute to the park’s ecological balance.

River otters: In aquatic habitats such as lakes and streams, river otters are active residents. Their playful behavior and sleek presence add to the diversity of wildlife experiences in the park.

Pronghorns: These swift and agile antelope-like mammals can be spotted in the park’s open grasslands. Their unique adaptations make them well-suited to the prairie environments of Custer State Park.

Cougars: Though elusive and rarely seen, cougars inhabit the park’s forests and rocky landscapes. Their presence as a top predator contributes to the park’s overall ecosystem dynamics.

Feral burros: Not native to the region, feral burros are a charming addition to the park’s fauna. Known for approaching vehicles in search of food, they add a unique and sometimes amusing element to the visitor experience.

Custer State Park’s diverse fauna is a testament to the park’s commitment to wildlife conservation and habitat preservation. The mix of large herbivores, predators, and smaller mammals creates a balanced and thriving ecosystem offering visitors a chance to witness the wonders of the Black Hills’ natural biodiversity.

Activities in Custer State Park for visitors

1. Scenic drives

Visitors to Custer State Park can embark on unforgettable scenic drives such as the renowned Needles Highway and Wildlife Loop Road. Needles Highway winds through impressive granite spires providing breathtaking views and opportunities to witness the park’s diverse wildlife. Wildlife Loop Road offers a leisurely drive through key habitats allowing visitors to observe bison herds, prairie dog towns, and a variety of other animals.

2. Hiking trails

The park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails catering to various skill levels. Trails like the Little Devils Tower offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while Sylvan Lake Shore Trail provides a scenic lakeside stroll. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the diverse ecosystems from dense forests to open meadows offering a close encounter with the park’s natural beauty.

3. Wildlife viewing

Custer State Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s vast landscapes offer ample opportunities for wildlife observation with bison, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, elk, and a myriad of bird species calling the park home. Wildlife Loop Road is especially popular for its accessibility and the likelihood of spotting iconic animals in their natural habitats.

Burros, Custer State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Fishing

The park’s five picturesque lakes including Sylvan Lake and Stockade Lake provide excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can cast their lines for a variety of fish species creating a serene and rewarding experience surrounded by the park’s scenic beauty. Fishing is permitted and regulations ensure the sustainability of the aquatic ecosystems.

5. Boating and swimming

Visitors seeking water-based activities can enjoy boating and swimming in the park’s lakes. Sylvan Lake with its clear waters and scenic surroundings is a popular spot for both boating and swimming. The calm lakes offer a refreshing escape allowing visitors to connect with nature while engaging in recreational water activities.

6. Annual bison roundup

An iconic event in Custer State Park is the annual bison roundup (September 27, 2024), a spectacle that draws thousands of spectators. This tradition, dating back to 1965 involves herding the bison for health checks and population management. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness this significant conservation effort and gain insights into the park’s commitment to wildlife management.

7. Visitor Center Exploration

Opened in 2016, the park’s visitor center serves as an informative hub. Visitors can delve into exhibits detailing the park’s wildlife, history, and layout. The center provides a comprehensive introduction to Custer State Park enhancing the overall visitor experience with interactive displays and a 20-minute film.

Camping in Custer State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

8. Camping

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Custer State Park offers several campgrounds nestled within its natural landscapes. Campers can enjoy the tranquility of the Black Hills with campfire evenings under starlit skies. The park provides a range of camping options from rustic sites to more developed facilities.

Custer State Park’s diverse activities cater to a broad range of interests inviting visitors to engage with its natural wonders, wildlife, and recreational offerings. Whether exploring by car, foot, or boat, the park provides an enriching experience that showcases the unique beauty of the Black Hills region.

As our journey through Custer State Park concludes, it leaves an indelible mark—a canvas of granite peaks, untamed bison, and winding scenic drives. The echoes of preservation and nature’s allure linger. Until the next adventure beckons, Custer State Park remains a cherished chapter in the tapestry of exploration.

Plan your next trip to Custer State Park and the Black Hills with these resources:

Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Conclusion

In summary, Custer State Park is a harmonious blend of conservation, recreation, and cultural heritage. Its diverse landscapes from prairie grasslands to granite peaks provide a captivating environment. The park’s commitment to preservation evident in the annual bison roundup and historic contributions reflects its dedication to stewardship.

Worth Pondering…

My first years were spent living just as my forefathers had lived—roaming the green, rolling hills of what are now the states of South Dakota and Nebraska.

—Standing Bear

President’s Day: 46 Surprising Facts about 46 Presidents

Below are 46 strange and fascinating facts about all of America’s Presidents

Today is President’s Day! In addition to indicating a day off work or school for many, President’s Day is among the oldest federal holidays and it was the first to celebrate the life of an individual American. It was originally signed into law in 1879 in honor of George Washington’s birthday (February 22) but eventually moved to the third Monday of the month in a bid to create more three-day weekends for workers. Today, the holiday also recognizes the presidents past and present who have served since Washington.

From a 19^th-century president who killed a man in a duel to a 20^th-century leader who once worked as a lifeguard, learn surprising facts about each U.S. president. In some ways, all 46 U.S. presidents have been very much alike. Not lacking in ambition or charisma, each had a certain knack for self-promotion and networking.

At the same time, each commander in chief is unique. Read facts about every president in order of their service from a 19th-century hotshot with a taste for dueling to a 20th-century veteran who nearly died after being hit by anti-aircraft fire in World War II.

George Washington carved in stone at Mount Rushmore National Memorial © *Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. George Washington (1789-1797): The first U.S. president and Revolutionary War hero was an enthusiastic dog breeder, particularly of hunting hounds to which he gave names like Sweet Lips and Drunkard.

2. John Adams (1797-1801): Adams and his wife, Abigail, exchanged more than 1,100 letters throughout their lengthy relationship.

3. Thomas Jefferson (1801-1809): Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, died on July 4, in 1826 within hours of John Adams.

4. James Madison (1809-1817): Madison was the shortest president at 5 feet 4 inches and weighed barely over 100 pounds. James Madison and his wife, Dolley, helped popularize ice cream in America. Tastes in the treat, however, would be considered questionable today: chestnut, asparagus, and parmesan were all on the menu. Dolley’s favorite flavor was oyster.

5. James Monroe (1817-1825): Other than Washington, Monroe was the only president to ever run essentially unopposed, coasting to re-election in the 1820 race.

6. John Quincy Adams (1825-1829): Years after leaving the White House, Quincy Adams argued a famous Supreme Court case that freed the captive Africans who had rebelled aboard the Amistad slave ship. The election of 1824 saw four viable candidates, none of whom won an outright majority of electoral votes. Andrew Jackson nabbed 99, John Quincy Adams won 84, William H. Crawford earned 41, and Henry Clay claimed 37. Despite having neither the highest number of electoral or total popular votes, Adams was chosen as President by the U.S. House of Representatives.

7. Andrew Jackson (1829-1837): Jackson once killed a man in a duel.

8. Martin Van Buren (1837-1841): Van Buren was the first president to be born an American. All previous presidents were originally British subjects, having been born prior to 1776.

9. William Henry Harrison (1841): Harrison died just 31 days after his inauguration in 1841, the shortest presidency in United States history.

10. John Tyler (1841-1845): Tyler fathered 15 children, the most of any president.

11. James K. Polk (1845-1849): During his term, Polk secretly purchased a number of enslaved children for his Mississippi cotton plantation.

12. Zachary Taylor (1849-1850): Old Rough and Ready never voted in an election prior to being on the ballot himself.

13. Millard Fillmore (1850-1853): Fillmore was the last Whig president; the party imploded soon after he left office.

14. Franklin Pierce (1853-1857): The only president from New Hampshire also attended college in New England—Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine.

15. James Buchanan (1857-1861): In 1853, while serving as minister to Great Britain, Buchanan helped draft the 1854 Ostend Manifesto which advocated for an American invasion of Cuba.

16. Abraham Lincoln (1861-1865): Honest Abe, the tallest president at 6 feet 4 inches may have had Marfan Syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes people to be very tall, thin, and long limbed.

17. Andrew Johnson (1865-1869): Though one of the few presidents without a pet, Johnson apparently cared for a family of White House mice which he called the little fellows.

18. Ulysses S. Grant (1869-1877): Civil War General Grant was invited to join Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre on the fateful evening of April 14, 1865 but was forced to decline after he and his wife made plans to visit their children in New Jersey.

19. Rutherford B. Hayes (1877-1881): Hayes was the first president to have a telephone in the White House.

20. James A. Garfield (1881): Garfield (who was the first known left-handed president) was elected to the U.S. Senate but never served as Ohio senator because he then won the Republican nomination for president. In 1880, Garfield attended the Republican National Convention with no intention of running for President. But when the convention stalled, a delegate nominated Garfield as a compromise candidate, and a stream of unexpected votes flooded in. “This honor comes to me unsought,” Garfield said. “I have never had the presidential fever, not even for a day … I have no feeling of elation given the position I am called upon to fill.”

21. Chester A. Arthur (1881-1885): Arthur was named in honor of Chester Abell, the doctor who delivered him.

22. and 24. Grover Cleveland (1885-1889, 1893-1897): No president except Cleveland has ever served non-consecutive terms: He defeated James G. Blaine in 1884, lost to Benjamin Harrison in 1888 (despite winning the popular vote), and then came back to defeat Harrison in 1892.

23. Benjamin Harrison (1889-1893): Harrison was the first president to hire a female White House staffer. Under Harrison’s watch, electricity was installed at the White House in 1891. The newfangled invention utterly terrified him. Harrison and his wife, Caroline, refused to operate the light switches. He was so afraid of pressing the knobs that, sometimes, he’d sleep with the lights on.

25. William McKinley (1897-1901): McKinley’s likeness appears on the $500 bill which was discontinued in 1969.

26. Theodore Roosevelt (1901-1909): Roosevelt was the youngest president, taking office at age 42.

27. William Howard Taft (1909-1913): Famous for his corpulence, Taft was the first president to hurl the ceremonial first pitch at a Major League Baseball game.

28. Woodrow Wilson (1913-1921): In a 1914 proclamation, Wilson officially established the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

29. Warren G. Harding (1921-1923): Prior to taking office, Harding wrote a series of lurid love letters to his mistress, the wife of one of his best friends.

30. Calvin Coolidge (1923-1929): A quiet man, Coolidge purportedly replied, “You lose,” to a visitor who bet she could get at least three words out of him.

31. Herbert Hoover (1929-1933): An Iowa native who spent part of his boyhood in Oregon, Hoover was the first president to hail from west of the Mississippi River. Despite humble origins, Hoover was a self-made multimillionaire. He was orphaned at the age of 9 and was raised by various relatives, eventually graduating from Stanford’s inaugural class with a degree in geology. Working for a British mine, he traveled the world looking for pricey mineral deposits and made millions doing

32. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933-1945): The longest-serving commander-in-chief claimed to be distantly related to 11 other presidents including his fifth cousin Theodore Roosevelt.

33. Harry S. Truman (1945-1953): The “S” in Harry S. Truman was just an initial; it didn’t stand for any name. (The “S” in Ulysses S. Grant didn’t stand for anything either.)

34. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-1961): World War II hero Ike was the first president to ride in a helicopter.

35. John F. Kennedy (1961-1963): After being injured and honorably discharged in World War II, Kennedy was briefly employed as a journalist during the waning weeks of the war.

36. Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-1969): Johnson’s first career was as a teacher. He worked at a school near the U.S.-Mexico border for four years before launching a career in politics.

37. Richard M. Nixon (1969-1974): Nixon became such a skillful poker player while stationed in the Solomon Islands during World War II that his winnings helped launch his political career upon his return to the U.S.

38: Gerald Ford (1974-1977): A star football player at the University of Michigan, Ford turned down offers from both the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers.

39. Jimmy Carter (1977-1981): When his father died in 1953, Carter gave up his successful military career to move back to Georgia and work on their family’s peanut farm.

40. Ronald Reagan (1981-1989): Reagan worked as a lifeguard and sportscaster before becoming an actor and, later, a politician.

41. George H. Bush (1989-1993): As a student at Yale, Bush was captain of the baseball team and a member of Skull and Bones, an elite secret student society.

42. Bill Clinton (1993-2001): Clinton played the saxophone and performed on the Arsenio Hall Show when he was a candidate for president.

43. George W. Bush (2001-2009): Post-presidency, Bush took up oil painting, exhibiting his work at the Museum of the Southwest in Texas.

44. Barack Obama (2009-2017): Prior to becoming the first African American president, Obama won two Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word Album.

45. Donald J. Trump (2017-2021): Before becoming president, Trump was a real estate developer, entrepreneur, and host of the NBC reality show, The Apprentice.

46: Joe Biden (2021-present): Biden overcame a debilitating childhood stutter after enduring bullying over the condition in grade school.

Worth Pondering…

Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.

—John F. Kennedy

Creation of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial Began 96 Years Ago TODAY

American landmark took 14 years to complete, meant to commemorate the nation ‘until the end of time’

A monument’s dimensions should be determined by the importance to civilization of the events commemorated.

— Gutzon Borglum

The creation of Mount Rushmore which set the images of four American presidents in towering monumental relief in the Black Hills of South Dakota began on this day in history, October 4, 1927.

“Mount Rushmore is a project of colossal proportion, colossal ambition and colossal achievement,” writes the National Park Service (NPS) which assumed management of the landmark by order of President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933.

Mount Rushmore National Monument *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The monument immortalizes presidents George Washington (1789-97), Thomas Jefferson (1801-09), Theodore Roosevelt (1901-09), and Abraham Lincoln (1861-65).

Danish-American sculptor Gutzon Borglum led the effort which employed about 400 men and women before it was completed on October 31, 1941.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is open year-round, seven days a week, and is located 23 miles from Rapid City. The memorial offers a variety of activities so plan to spend at least four to five hours there. Visitors can leave and return to the memorial the same day for the evening lighting ceremony. Mount Rushmore also features a gift shop, an information center, and an award-winning audio tour.

“A monument’s dimensions should be determined by the importance to civilization of the events commemorated,” Borghlum said of his majestic relief in which the face of each president stands about 60 feet in height.

“Let us place there, carved high, as close to heaven as we can, the words of our leaders, their faces, to show posterity what matter of men they were. Then breathe a prayer that these records will endure until the wind and the rain alone shall wear them away.”

When Texas Sen. Tom Connolly questioned the project, Borglum responded fiercely, “Mount Rushmore is eternal. It will stand until the end of time.”

The artist never saw his vision to completion.

He died of a heart attack in March 1941. His son Lincoln Borglum oversaw the project in its final months.

The face of each president was slowly revealed over years of work: first Washington (1930), then Jefferson (1936), then Lincoln (1937), and finally Roosevelt (1939).

Washington’s faith in the new republic in its darkest hours earned him the title Father of His Country.

Jefferson gave humanity the belief that “all men are created equal.”

Roosevelt was one of the world’s leading reformers and environmentalists and won the 1906 Nobel Peace Prize.

And Lincoln emancipated from slavery nearly 4 million Americans and inspired the nation through the tragedy of the Civil War.

Yet those achievements are not good enough for some Americans today—as Mount Rushmore has come under attack in recent years by “woke” pundits.

“Can we retire using Mount Rushmore? That should be offensive to all of us especially Native Americans—indigenous people who were the first people here before Christopher Columbus,” former NBA star and basketball analyst Jalen Rose said in a video tweet. “That land was stolen from them when it was discovered that it contained gold,” he also said.

Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., responded days later by introducing the Mount Rushmore Protection Act.

The act prohibits the use of federal funds “to alter, change, destroy, or remove the likeness, the name of or any of the faces on the Mount Rushmore National Memorial,” Johnson’s office said in a press release.

The process for carving the monument from a mountain face of granite and sandstone was ambitious, daring, and dangerous.

Rock was first blown off the mountain with the use of targeted explosives before the process got increasingly more precise.

“Dynamite was used until only three to six inches of rock was left to remove to get to the final carving surface,” writes the NPS.

At this point, the drillers and assistant carvers would drill holes into the granite very close together. This was called honeycombing. The closely drilled holes would weaken the granite so it could be removed often by hand.”

NPS also said, “After the honeycombing, the workers smoothed the surface of the faces with a hand facer or bumper tool. In this final step, the bumper tool would even up the granite, creating a surface as smooth as a sidewalk.”

The work “was exciting, but dangerous”—yet not one person died in the 14 years of construction despite the explosives, heights and daunting conditions, the NPS reports.

Worth Pondering…

The noble countenances emerge from Rushmore as though the spirit of the mountain heard a human plan and itself became a human countenance.

—Frank Lloyd Wright

10 Amazing Places to RV in July 2023

If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in July

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.

—Helen Keller

Throughout her life as an author and social reformer, Helen Keller motivated people around the world to overcome obstacles even in the most difficult circumstances. Despite losing both her sight and hearing when she was just 19 months old, she went on to become a prolific writer, lecturer, and disability rights advocate, helping found the American Civil Liberties Union and authoring hundreds of essays. Keller wrote these words of encouragement in her 1940 book Let Us Have Faith, calling upon us to take chances in life and trust in the path of discovery.

Glacial Skyway, Icefields Parkway, Alberta *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Welcome to July! While the sun and warmth may be reason enough to celebrate, there’s even more cause for jubilation in America’s neighbor to the north. Today is Canada Day, a holiday marking the Great White North’s independence from Britain. On July 1, 1867, a Dominion was formed through the British North America Act as approved by the British Parliament. It consisted of territories then called Upper and Lower Canada and of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The act divided Canada into the provinces of Ontario and Quebec and it included provisions for other colonies and territories to join in the future which made possible the growth of Canada into its present form. The act served as Canada’s constitution until 1982.

By terms of the Canada Act of 1982, the British North America Act was repatriated from the British to the Canadian Parliament and Canada became a fully independent country. At the same time, the name of the national holiday was changed to Canada Day. It is celebrated with parades, displays of the flag, the singing of the national anthem, O Canada, and fireworks. When July 1 falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on the following day.

July 1 is now commemorated annually nationwide from Halifax to Vancouver and everywhere in between. In honor of this historic occasion, today’s roundup touches on a variety of cultural histories in Canada and the United States.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in May and June. Also check out my recommendations from July 2022 and August 2022.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, Alberta

Travel to southern Alberta and you’ll uncover unique landscapes like badlands and hoodoos around lush green river valleys and literal writings on the stone around you. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park offers the natural scenery of the Milk River and the badlands but also significant cultural history.

The Visitor Centre trail is about 0.3 mile with great hoodoo views and information on upcoming events or tours. The park offers guided experiences throughout summer but you can visit for a hike or picnic any time of year. The Milk River is also a wonderful spot for a paddle.

2. American History, Alive in Stone

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore near Keystone. Sculpted by Danish-American Gutzon Borglum and his son, Lincoln Borglum, Mount Rushmore features 60-foot sculptures of the heads of four United States presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The entire memorial covers 1,278.45 acres and is 5,725 feet above sea level.

South Dakota historian Doane Robinson is credited with conceiving the idea of carving the likenesses of famous people into the Black Hills region of South Dakota in order to promote tourism in the region. Robinson’s initial idea was to sculpt the Needles; however, Gutzon Borglum rejected the Needles site because of the poor quality of the granite and strong opposition from environmentalists and Native American groups.

They settled on the Mount Rushmore location which also has the advantage of facing southeast for maximum sun exposure. Robinson wanted it to feature western heroes like Lewis and Clark, Red Cloud, and Buffalo Bill Cody but Borglum decided the sculpture should have a more national focus and chose the four presidents whose likenesses would be carved into the mountain.

After securing federal funding construction on the memorial began in 1927 and the presidents’ faces were completed between 1934 and 1939. Upon Gutzon Borglum’s death in March 1941 his son Lincoln Borglum took over construction. Although the initial concept called for each president to be depicted from head to waist, lack of funding forced construction to end in late October 1941.

The National Park Service (NPS) took control of the memorial in 1933 while it was still under construction and has managed the memorial to the present day. It attracts nearly three million people annually.

>> Get more tips for visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Jasper National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. Best of the Rockies

When it comes to the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park has it all. From the soaring limestone walls of Maligne Canyon to the breathtaking views of Athabasca Falls and crystal clear Pyramid Lake, Jasper National Park is filled with sensational activities for the hiker, kayaker, and all-around outdoors enjoyer could ever want.

Located at the foot of Pyramid Mountain, Pyramid Lake is one of the most picturesque places to see in Jasper. This kidney-shaped lake is the perfect spot to relax on the beach or picnic at the log frame pavilion.

Icefields Parkway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Named in honor of a British nurse who saved the lives of many soldiers during the First World War, Mount Edith Cavell is one of the most recognizable mountaintops in Jasper National Park. Here, you can hike along different trails that lead you to some fantastic panoramic views.

If scenic road trips are your thing, you’re definitely going to want to drive the Icefields Parkway. Named after the Columbia Icefield and the glaciers that reside there, this enchanting stretch of highway passes through Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, and is one of the most remarkable routes in Canada.

So tour the world’s most accessible glacier, get front row seats to a diverse range of wildlife including elk, bears, and bighorn sheep and dive into massive mountain peaks, vast valleys, and forests filled with extraordinary evergreens.

Cumberland Island National Seashore *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Where nature and history meet

If you should know one thing about Cumberland Island, know this: The southernmost barrier island in Georgia with its 18 miles of unspoiled beach and acres of breathtaking natural beauty is more than sand and sea.

People obviously appreciate Cumberland for the peace and quiet, the recreation, the beaches, the camping, and whatnot. But they might not know—unless they’ve either done some reading or taken a ranger-led tour—that there’s history here. This place has been an integral part of practically every era in American history—and pre-American history.

Dungeness ruins, Cumberland Island National Seashore *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Visitors can walk the ruins of the Dungeness mansion and tour the 22,000-square-foot Plum Orchard Mansion, two early 20th-century Carnegie family estates.

Cumberland Island is accessible by ferry only. Reservations for the 45-minute ferry ride are recommended. Board the ferry to Cumberland Island in St. Marys, a historic small town located on the Georgia coast approximately midway between Jacksonville, Florida and Brunswick, Georgia.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Badlands National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

5. Badlands Astronomy Festival

South Dakota is home to Badlands National Park which boasts exciting fossil beds and unique geologic formations. In 2023, the Badlands National Park’s annual Astronomy Festival which is held in partnership with the NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium will take place from July 14 through July 16.

Per the National Park Service, “Novices and experts alike will enjoy the spectacular dark night skies of Badlands National Park at public star parties each evening. During the afternoon each day, a variety of family-friendly activities will provide opportunities for visitors to learn about the night sky, the sun, and space exploration.”

Astronomers (and their telescopes) from the Black Hills Astronomical Society, Badlands National Park, Dark Ranger Telescope Tours, and the University of Utah will be on hand throughout the festival to lead guests in for day and night observations.

This free event is made possible through funding and support from the Badlands Natural History Association, NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium, Dark Ranger Telescope Tours, Black Hills Astronomical Society, The Journey Museum and Learning Center, International Dark Sky Association, University of Utah, Badlands National Park Conservancy, Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, and Badlands National Park.

>> Get more tips for visiting Badlands National Park

6. Ocmulgee Mounds

It’s been more than two years since West Virginia’s New River Gorge became America’s most recent national park and since then outdoor recreation has continued to soar in popularity. NPS manages more than 400 sites across the United States but less than 20 percent (63) are national parks with the scale and amenities that can support heavy visitation. Currently, 20 states do not have a national park.

There are many benefits to having a national park. They can be a boon for regional tourism and bring federal resources for conserving land that may be vulnerable to development or invasive species.

So where could the next national park be? The U.S. is full of worthy candidates. But national parks are created through congressional legislation and there are many considerations including available infrastructure such as roads and restrooms. Community advocacy can help fuel the effort. With strong local and federal support, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park stands a good chance of becoming America’s 64^th national park.

The verdant human-made knolls here are a vivid window into more than 17,000 years of Indigenous habitation. The ancestral homeland of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is a leading contender for the next national park slot thanks to a robust community initiative and bipartisan support in Congress. “We know that our ancestors are buried in this land and national park status would establish protections,” says Tracie Reevis, director of advocacy for the Ocmulgee National Park & Preserve Initiative.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

7. Exploring Carlsbad Caverns

If you’re a fan of geology or just want to see something incredibly unique, it’s hard to top Carlsbad Caverns. The main attraction of this area is the caverns themselves and there are tons of guided tours available. Tour guides point out particularly interesting features, teach you about \the formation and history of the area, and help you stay safe as you explore these naturally formed caves.

The visitor center is also quite impressive. If you’re a fan of documentaries, you’ll love the 16-minute Hidden World video presentation that they play every 30 minutes. This will give you additional information about the caverns so you can more fully enjoy your experience once you’re in them. The center also has exhibits about the native plant and animal species as well as hands-on learning experiences about the geology and history of the area. And of course, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop and buy some fun souvenirs.

>> Get more tips for visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Black’s BBQ, Lockhart *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

8. Travel to Texas for beef brisket

Travel to Texas and you’ll quickly learn something important about the locals: they know their barbecued meats. So when they line up for four or more hours to get some, it has to be special. That’s the situation at Austin’s Franklin Barbecue six days a week. Through the Franklin’s menu includes pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and more, the main attraction is its smoked beef brisket.

The team here keeps it simple rubbing the meat with a mix of salt and black pepper then cooking it low and slow in oakwood smoke until it’s fall-apart tender and encased in a thin, salty crust. It’s a juicy, smoky Texas classic, judged best-in-class by Texans themselves.

Texas BBQ *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

You could drive to Lockhart, the state-legislated Barbecue Capital of Texas and be back in the time it takes to get into Franklin’s. But the queue is good fun; you can have a beer and meet some friendly Texans while you wait—and damn, that brisket is good.

Franklin Barbecue can now be shipped to your home anywhere in the United States. Get the best brisket in the known universe without standing in line.

Learn to smoke meat like a pro! Aaron Franklin teaches you how to fire up flavor-packed Central Texas barbecue including his famous brisket and more mouth-watering smoked meat.

>> Get more tips on the best of Texas BBQ

Meaher State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

9. Delta Boardwalk at Meaher State Park

The construction is complete on the Gateway to the Delta Boardwalk at Meaher State Park. The park is part of the Alabama Birding Trails Coastal Trail Series making the boardwalk a great place to bird watch.

The Coastal Birding Trail features six birding loops in Baldwin and Mobile counties totaling over 200 miles. Each loop covers different ecological regions representative of the northern Gulf Coast and enables birders to experience different bird species within each region.

Stop number 26 on the Coastal Alabama Birding Trail, Meaher State Park’s 1,327-acres are situated in the wetlands of north Mobile Bay and is a multi-use scenic park with picnic areas, 61 RV camping sites, 10 improved tent sites all with full hook-ups and a shower house with laundry facilities for overnight visitors. A boat ramp and fishing pier will appeal to every fisherman.

Stop at the gate house to pay a nominal $3 entrance fee and then drive to the shell road which runs a quarter mile to the aforementioned boardwalk. Park here (there is a chain across the shell road at this point) and walk on toward the boardwalk that extends out into Mobile Bay.

In winter, watch for Swamp and White-throated Sparrows as you approach the boardwalk. Herons, egrets, and gulls can be seen from the boardwalk and Least Bittern (summer) and Clapper Rail. In winter, American White Pelicans find this a favorite spot as do large rafts of waterfowl.

In summer, this is a great place for terns including Gull-billed Tern. In addition, Least Terns often gather on the railings of the boardwalk offering excellent views. On the south side of the island looking west into the bay there are often White Ibis. Yellow-crowned Night-Heron can be frequently seen near the entrance eating crabs.

>> Get more tips for visiting Meaher State Park

Chile peppers *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

10. New Mexico considers roasted chile as official state aroma

The sweet smell of green chile roasting on an open flame permeates New Mexico every fall wafting from roadside stands and grocery store parking lots and inducing mouth-watering visions of culinary wonders.

Now one state lawmaker says it’s time for everyone to wake up and smell the chile.

Sen. Bill Soules’ visit with fifth grade students in his southern district sparked a conversation about the savory hot peppers and the potential for New Mexico to become the first state in the nation to proudly have an official state aroma, a proposal now being considered by lawmakers.

“It’s very unique to our state,” the Las Cruces Democrat said of roasting chile. “I have tried to think of any other state that has a smell or aroma that is that distinctive statewide, and I can’t think of any.”

For New Mexico, chile is more than a key ingredient for every meal. It’s life. It’s at the center of the official state question—Red or green?—and is one of the state’s official vegetables.

New Mexico produced more than 60 percent of the U.S. chile pepper crop in 2021 and is home to Hatch, an agricultural village known as the Chile Capital of the World for the unique red and green peppers it has turned out for generations. The famous crop also is used in powders, sauces, and salsas that are shipped worldwide.

>> Learn more about New Mexico’s famed chiles

Worth Pondering…

If I had my way, I’d remove January from the calendar altogether and have an extra July instead.

—Roald Dahl

The 14 Most Beautiful U.S. Landmarks to Visit This Fourth of July

When you can go to the beach all summer why not try something new and more meaningful on Independence Day?

The Fourth of July holiday is rapidly approaching promising crowded beaches, sunburns, and lots of travel traffic. Take your weekend in a new direction and visit American landmarks on the anniversary of its birth. Celebrate the natural, industrial, and historic wonders of the US by visiting these iconic sites. From the Grand Canyon to the Alamo, this list of 14 American landmarks proves America has much to offer.

So many great places—so little time.

The Grand Canyon, Arizona

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World alongside the likes of the Great Barrier Reef and Mount Everest, the spectacular gorge stands alone as perhaps the most iconic symbol of the stunning beauty of American. The Grand Canyon encompasses a 277-mile stretch of the Colorado River about the distance from Boston to Philadelphia. It is up to 18 miles wide and more than 1 mile deep standing as the world’s greatest example of the erosive power of water.

“The extent and magnitude of the system of canyons is astounding,” wrote U.S. Army explorer Joseph Christmas Ives, the first European American to explore the canyon in 1857-58. The Grand Canyon still astounds visitors today.

Savannah *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Savannah Historic District, Georgia

The colonial south lives today amid the verdant squares of Savannah, a nearly 300-year-old city that enjoyed a rebirth following its haunting, captivating portrayal in the 1994 bestselling book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

Visitors love Savannah for its charming thoroughfares including the iconic cobblestones of River Street, delicious restaurants highlighting the best of southern fare such as Paula Deen’s flagship eatery The Lady and Sons, and its historic squares such as Chippewa Square featured in Forrest Gump.

Mount Washington Cog Railway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Mount Washington, New Hampshire

The centerpiece of the Presidential Range of the White Mountains is nothing less than the tallest peak in the northeast (6,288 feet). More famously Mount Washington habitually witnesses the globe’s most severe weather—due to its elevation and its location at the convergence of several major storm patterns.

Mount Washington’s brutal wind and cold is proclaimed locally as a testament to the hearty nature of Live Free or Die state residents. The summit held the record for highest wind speed ever recorded (231 mph) for several decades and reached a record low temperate of -50 degrees Fahrenheit in January 1885. The Mount Washington Observatory recorded a wind chill of -103 degrees as recently as 2004. The mountain today is a popular attraction for tourists who ascend the top via hiking trail, precarious auto road, or popular cog railway.

White Sands National Park, New Mexico

This geological oddity is an American wonder for its natural beauty and sobering role in the history of modern warfare. White Sands National Park includes 275 square miles of glistening gypsum sand—the largest dune field of its kind on Earth surrounded by the U.S. Army’s White Sands Missile Range. The park today offers spectacular vistas and touring by automobile, hiking, biking, or pack animals.

It was on this site in July 1945 that American scientists led by J. Robert Oppenheimer first unleashed the power of the atomic bomb, a victory of American ingenuity and industrial power amid World War II. The achievement also had lingering ramifications for mankind. The Trinity test at White Sands was a prelude to the atomic attacks the following month on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan that ended World War II.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

The rugged and wild parkland is celebrated for its rugged badlands, free-roaming bison, and its namesake’s Elkhorn Ranch on the Little Missouri River. Stargazing is a popular activity in the isolated park hundreds of miles from the nearest major city, with weekly events and viewing parties highlighted by the August annual Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival.

Gettysburg National Military Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania

The stunning human cost of preserving the nation is best seen in this sprawling battlefield in rural south-central Pennsylvania. Gettysburg pitted about 160,000 men in a pitched three-day battle that turned the tide of the Civil War in favor of the Union. Some 50,000 soldiers of both sides were killed or wounded. It remains the largest battle in North American history.

Visitors today can stand where Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain ordered the 20^th Maine to fix bayonets and charge down Little Round Top to save the southern end of the Union line or walk in the footsteps of brave Confederates slaughtered during Pickett’s charge on the decisive day of battle or tour the vast battlefield by exploring the hundreds of haunting monuments that dot the landscape today.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established by the United States Congress in 1934 and formally dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940. It was the first national park to be endowed with land and other expenses paid in part with federal money; previous parks had been entirely funded by state or private donors. The park is divided between the Blue Ridge Mountains which are a subdivision of the broader Appalachian Mountain chain and the Great Smoky Mountains part of the larger Southern Appalachians.

The national park is notable for its mountains, waterfalls, biodiversity, and spruce-fir forests. The park also houses several historical buildings that were part of early European-American settlers’ settlements in the area. The park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and an International Biosphere Reserve in 1988.

The Alamo *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Alamo, Texas

Remember the Alamo! It was the battle cry of Texas freedom fighters during the decisive Battle of San Jacinto led by Sam Houston against Mexico in April 1836. And it is a memorial to the doomed defenders of the Spanish mission turned Texas fort; they had tried without success to hold off Mexican general Antonio López de Santa Anna in late February and early March of that year. The Alamo became a bloody battlefield and a hallowed final resting place for those who would never leave these grounds alive.

On the 13th day—March 6, 1836—the Alamo finally fell and its defenders became American legends. The aftermath has inspired Americans for almost 190 years and the battle cry “Remember the Alamo?” has been repeated over and over again.

The Breakers, Newport *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Newport Mansions, Rhode Island

The wealth of the Gilded Age springs to life in Newport where the nation’s titans of 19th-century industry built ostentatious summer homes on the cliffs where scenic Narragansett Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. The Breakers owned by railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt II is probably the most spectacular built of limestone in the ornate style of an Italian palazzo.

Newport’s legacy as a playground of wealthy lives on today, amid its charming and busy downtown waterfront. The city is home to the International Tennis Hall of Fame and hosted the America’s Cup, the world’s premier sailing race, for decades.

Middleton Place, Charleston *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Charleston plantations and gardens, South Carolina

The antebellum South both its beauty and the disturbing legacy of human bondage live on today and its vast collection of some 2,000 plantations many of which are centered around historic Charleston and open to visitors.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens features what it calls “America’s last large-scale Romantic-style garden”. Middleton Place, named for Declaration of Independence signatory Arthur Middleton claims “America’s oldest landscaped gardens” across 65 acres. Boone Hall dates back to 1681 and is famed for its Avenue of the Oaks with its moss-covered limbs forming a photogenic canopy along with an array of brick homes that housed slave families.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

This monumental sculpture of four U.S. presidents, each of their faces an amazing 60-feet tall, turned a remote area of a remote state into a beloved symbol of the national narrative. Law school student William Andrew Burkett summed up the purpose of the monument in 1934 in a winning essay he submitted to a contest hosted by Mount Rushmore sculptor Gutzon Borglum.

“Almighty God, from this pulpit of stone the American people render thanksgiving and praise for the new era of civilization brought forth upon this continent,” Burkett wrote, his essay immortalized in bronze at the park. Mount Rushmore attracts some 2 million visitors a year and is a prominent place in the nation’s cultural lexicon with its images of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln staring stoically across the American continent.

Monument Valley *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Arizona and Utah

The spectacular images of eroded sandstone buttes rising from the red rock of the Colorado Plateau along the Arizona-Utah state line are firmly ingrained in America’s natural and cultural landscapes. Monument Valley was forged by tectonic forces some 250 million years ago. It was inhabited by Navajo for centuries who set aside the land as a park within the Navajo Nation in 1958.

Its stunning landscape has reached audiences around the world as the backdrop of classic western movies such as Stagecoach, the 1939 John Ford flick that made John Wayne a star. More recently its jagged cathedrals of stone framed war hero and shrimp tycoon Forrest Gump as he abruptly ended his famous silver-screen jog across America on U.S. Route 163 hear Mexican Hat, Utah.

Lake Champlain *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Lake Champlain, New York and Vermont

The “Sixth Great Lake” has loomed large in both Native and European American history. Lake Champlain divided the Mohawks to the west and Abenaki to the east while British and continental forces fought for control of the 107 mile-long lake throughout the American Revolution.

Lake Champlain today is a perfect place to enjoy the pristine wilderness and especially the fall foliage of northern New England or search for Champy. The mysterious Loch Ness monster-like creature was first known to the Abenaki allegedly witnessed by French explorer Samuel de Champlain himself and reported by dozens of other witnesses in the centuries since.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

America’s newest national park has long been a symbol of an Appalachian Mountain state so beautiful it’s known around the world as Almost Heaven. New River Gorge achieved its federal designation in December 2020. The park is celebrated most notably for its spectacular New River Gorge Bridge. It was both the world’s highest auto bridge and longest single-span arch bridge when it opened in 1977 though it has been surpassed in both global superlatives since.

The park offers many recreational opportunities along with insight and exhibits exploring West Virginia’s coal mining history and culture. Among the figures celebrated: coal miner and son of slaves Carter Woodson who recorded the stories he heard digging ore and turned them into a published legacy as the “Father of Black History.”

Worth Pondering…

Imagination is more important than knowledge. For while knowledge defines all we currently know and understand, imagination points to all we might yet discover and create.

—Albert Einstein

10 Amazing Places to RV in February 2023

If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in February

The mind is like a car battery—it recharges by running.

—Bill Watterson

Every day, for 10 years, cartoonist Bill Watterson delighted readers with a new story in his beloved syndicated comic strip Calvin and Hobbes. But that kind of round-the-clock ingenuity is no easy feat. His secret? Recharging the mind by letting it play. “I’ve had to cultivate a kind of mental playfulness,” Watterson said in the same 1990 commencement speech at Kenyon College where he gave the quote above. “A playful mind is inquisitive and learning is fun.”

In other words, creative ideas come when the mind is encouraged to wander into new areas, exploring wherever your natural curiosity may lead. Instead of shutting off your brain at the end of a long day, reinvigorate it by indulging your innate sense of wonder. If you follow what makes learning fun, it’s bound to lead you to new ideas.

With a chill in the air we head into February literally and figuratively cold with no idea what those rodents we trust as meteorologists will predict. Will it be six more weeks of a holed-up winter? Or will it be an early, forgiving spring? Like pretty much every single day of the last three years, the answer is: Who knows! Certainly not our friend Punxsutawney Phil whose accuracy rate is a whopping 39 percent! You’d be better off flipping a coin.

We do know, however, that we’re gonna embrace the here and now. This month we do have ostrich races at the Indio Date Festival and another reason to visit Charleston. We also have desert warmth and wildflowers along the Pinal Parkway and places to celebrate President’s Day.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in January. Also, check out my recommendations from February 2022 and March 2022.

Mexican poppies along Pinal Parkway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. The Pinal Pioneer Parkway

The Pinal Pioneer Parkway connected Tucson and Phoenix in the years before Interstate 10 was built. Now a little-traveled back road, it’s a much more picturesque route than the main highway especially in wildflower season. The parkway itself is a 42 mile-long stretch of Arizona State Highway 79, beginning in the desert uplands on the north slope of the Santa Catalina Mountains at about 3,500 feet and wending northward to just above 1,500 feet outside the little town of Florence.

In spring, the parkway is lined with desert verbena, lupine, Mexican poppies, globemallow, chuparosa, penstemon, and daisies. Even in dry years when other parts of the desert aren’t flowering, the Pinal Pioneer Parkway always seems to manage a good show.

The parkway is marked with signs pointing out some of the characteristic desert vegetation such as saguaro and mesquite. Pack a picnic lunch and stop at one of the many roadside tables. Stop at the Tom Mix Memorial, 23.5 miles north of Oracle Junction at milepost 116, to pay your respects to the late movie cowboy.

2. Visit the Presidents (and other things) in South Dakota

As always, Presidents’ Day lands in February. So maybe it’s time to get extra presidential by firing up the RV for a jaunt to South Dakota. After your patriotic tour of Mount Rushmore, you’ll have free reign of one of the least-visited states at its emptiest time. Hike a frozen waterfall, hang out on a frozen lake, or get to know the land’s first people.

Or dig deep into the western part of the state: Not far from Rushmore, you can pretend you’re on an alien planet in the Badlands, kick up your spurs with some ghosts in Deadwood, hop on a jackalope while stuffed with homemade donuts at Wall Drug, and gaze upon the wonders of the Corn Palace. Visit the stunning lakes and spires of Custer State Park and see where the thrilling buffalo roundup happens in September. Just give your new fuzzy friends lots of room.

>> Get more tips for visiting South Dakota

Bay St. Lewis *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. A place apart

Considered a place apart, this quaint seaside town has been named one of the Coolest Small Towns in America by Budget Travel and was also recognized as a top 10 small beach town by Coastal Living Magazine. From friendly folks to historic buildings, this unique city embraces the heritage of the Coastal Mississippi region.

The town’s prime spot on the Mississippi Sound, an embayment of the Gulf of Mexico, provides a glorious stretch of white-sanded beach with virtually no crowds.

Just off of Beach Boulevard, you’ll find Old Town Bay St. Louis, a walkable area full of local shops and eateries. Spend an afternoon strolling through Old Town, browsing the beach boutiques and art galleries. Don’t miss the French Potager, an antique store and flower shop.

>> Get more tips for visiting Bay St. Louis

Crowley *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Where Life is Rice & Easy

At the crossroads of LA 13 and U.S. Highway 90 lies the city of Crowley.

Rice is the bedrock of the region’s celebrated Cajun cuisine and no other Louisiana community is as intimately tied to the crop as Crowley. The swallow ponds and level prairies surrounding the city produce lots of crawfish too, but it was the turn-of-the-century rice mills that gave Crowley its identity and made possible today’s impressive collection of historic structures.

Many historic buildings still play prominent roles in the city’s life. One such example is Miller Stadium, a 1940s-era ballpark and the Grand Opera House of the South that first opened in 1901 and was recently revived as an elegant space for world-class performers. Visitors can relive regional music history at the J.D. Miller Recording Studio Museum downtown or get a taste of prairie life at the Crystal Rice Heritage Farm.

>> Get more tips for visiting Crowley

Sculptures of Borrego *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

5. Beyond the Sculptures of Borrego

Nestled between the historic gold mining town of Julian and The Salton Sea, Borrego Springs and the surrounding Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offer several exceptional experiences. Located two hours from San Diego, there are activities and natural attractions suited for many types of RVers. With 500 miles of dirt roads, a dozen wilderness areas, and miles of hiking trails you would expect some great adventures, and you won’t be disappointed.

Christmas Circles in Borrego Springs *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Walking downtown Borrego Springs is a fun experience. Start at Christmas Circle—the main attraction—and poke your head into some exciting shops or visit The Borrego Art Institute. This is where you can observe potters and en plein air artists complete their current artworks.

Hiking is popular in the Anza-Borrego Desert and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The desert trails are not for the faint of heart but rather ideal for those with a sense of adventure. Remember, hydration is vital in this arid region and be sure to bring along plenty of water. The routes are not always well marked and cell service is almost non-existent.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Borrego Springs isn’t known for its nightlife or at least not the club kind. However, it is an area that should be explored well after the sun sets. Borrego is an International Dark Sky Community that was designated by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA). Stargazing is encouraged.

There is no need for a telescope and the brilliantly lit skies will awe anyone who hasn’t been out of the dome of a city glow. Billions of stars make themselves known and form many prominent constellations.

>> Get more tips for visiting Borrego Springs

6. Beauty and History Combine

There’s no experience quite like the untamed beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore, a barrier island only accessible by boat from the small town of St. Marys. Home to a handful of residents and a whole lot of wildlife, it’s an incredible place to go off-grid. Visitors can hike the miles of trails sharing the space with wild horses, alligators, and birds.

Ruins of Dungeness, Cumberland Island National Seashore *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Tours are available of historic Carnegie mansions like Plum Orchard and the ruins of Dungeness. On the northern side of the island, you can see the First African Baptist Church, a historic African-American church where John F. Kennedy Jr. was famously married. To spend the night, choose from the multiple tenting campsites or the luxurious Greyfield Inn set in another Carnegie home with chef-prepared meals and naturalist tours.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Lyndon Baines Johnson National Historic Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

7. The Texas Whitehouse

Those who have ascended to the presidency of the United States are products of the environments in which they were born, raised, and educated. Their early experiences usually have a significant effect on how they manage their presidency and the subsequent policy and programs developed under their watch.

Lyndon Baines Johnson is a fitting example of that. His presidency was guided in full measure by his upbringing, his personal experiences with poverty and shame, and his observation of racism and hate.

Lyndon Baines Johnson had a staggering impact on the United States during his time as president. Much of his approach to government was instilled during his early life in Texas. The LBJ Ranch was where he was born, lived, died, and was buried.

>> Get more tips for visiting Lyndon B Johnson National Historical Park

Charleston *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

8. Wild now. Wild forever.

Since 1983, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) has celebrated the finest in wildlife art and the sporting lifestyle. SEWE is a celebration of the great outdoors through fine art, live entertainment, and special events. It’s where artists, craftsmen, collectors, and sporting enthusiasts come together to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle.

Whether you’re browsing for your next piece of fine art, searching for distinctive hand-made creations, looking for family-friendly entertainment, or you just need an excuse for visiting Charleston and the Lowcountry, there’s something for everyone at SEWE, February 17-19, 2023.

>> Get more tips for visiting Charleston

Riverside County Fairgrounds *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

9. It’s a Date!

Originating as a festival to celebrate the end of the annual date harvest, the annual Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival welcomes over 250,000 guests each February. The 75^th Annual Date Festival will be held February 17-26, 2023 featuring 10 days of family fun and world-class entertainment.

Dates *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Indio Date Festival and Riverside County Fair celebrate the desert’s favorite crop, dates. You’ll also see llamas, dairy goats, poultry, camel and ostrich races, WGAS Motorsports Monster Trucks, concerts, contests, games, food, and a carnival with midway action. It’s one of the best fairs in California because of its location and date.

The Riverside County Fairgrounds hosts a variety of community-focused events all year long, ranging from multi-day festivals to private events. The Fairgrounds are located on Highway 111 in Indio.

Buffalo Trace *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

10. Bourbon bonanza

Buffalo Trace is ringing in the New Year in record-breaking good spirits. The whiskey distillery officially filled its eight millionth barrel of bourbon since Prohibition. The major milestone occurred only four years after the seven millionth barrel was filled due to the distillery’s recent $1.2 billion expansion.

To celebrate the major achievement, Buffalo Trace announced its Bourbon Experience of a Lifetime contest offering a $10,000 trip for two. After running (or walking) one mile, entrants have the chance to win a fully paid, two-night trip to the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky.

This includes first-class, roundtrip airfare, car service, and a one-night stay at Buffalo Trace’s exclusive Stagg Lodge. The invite-only lodge has never been open to the public before. Built adjacent to the distillery in 2020, the 4,000-square-foot log cabin overlooks the Kentucky River and the city of Frankfort. The house has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, gorgeous great room with floor-to-ceiling windows, a double-sided fireplace, and a wrap-around deck. The experience includes a dinner for two prepared by a private chef at the lodge as well as private tours of the grounds and distillery.

The second-night stay will be in Louisville, Kentucky.

Winners will also be awarded an $800 Buffalo Trace Distillery gift card, plus Buffalo Trace will donate bourbon to a mutually agreed upon charity of the winner’s choice.

Interested participants in the Bourbon Experience of a Lifetime contest can enter at willrunforbuffalotracebourbon.com.

>> Get more tips for visiting Frankfort

Worth Pondering…

All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.

―Charles M. Schulz

4 Wild Dakotas Destinations to Explore this Summer

See what great places are waiting for you on your Dakota road trip

Early experiences in the Dakotas provided valuable inspiration for the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt. That inspiration drove his desire to form the National Park Service and you can easily imagine why he took up the cause at several national parks in the Dakotas.

Three parks are within two hours of each other in South Dakota. The fourth—Theodore Roosevelt National Park—is roughly five hours away in North Dakota. So you can reasonably hit all four on your next RV trip through the Dakotas.

Here’s your guide to these four parks in the Dakotas, three national parks and one state park.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The park named after the 26^th President is a great location to start or end your national park road trip in the Dakotas. Because it’s a little separated from the others, hit it on your way to South Dakota or on your way back.

The park is broken into northern and southern units. The southern unit is much more popular and easily accessed off Interstate 94 in the town of Medora. The northern unit is a good option for boondockers and those seeking a more remote experience as it’s about an hour north and closer to Watford City.

A healthy grazing population of bison— the largest land mammal in North America—is a major attraction at Teddy’s park. They tend to graze in roadside meadows and occasionally halt traffic as they cross.

The park is also home to feral horses, pronghorn, elk, prairie dogs, white-tail and mule deer, and more than 186 types of birds. Whether you just enjoy the 36 Mile Scenic Drive or come for the Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival (September 16-18, 2022), this park offers plenty to do and see.

Get more tips for visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Badlands National Park

If you somehow miss the bison at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, you’ll get another chance to spot one in the Badlands. Along with bison, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn can regularly be spotted from the park’s many roadside overlooks.

The park’s multi-colored landscape is especially attractive to photographers at sunrise and sunset. But there are many pull-outs along the main park road for you to capture the landscape from a unique perspective.

The best times to visit the Badlands are spring and fall. Summer temperatures in the park can be sweltering and winter weather can be quite cold on the Dakota plains. There’s plenty of RV camping in the park but there’s also a large boondocking area for free RV and tent camping just outside the north entrance station.

Be sure to check out the Fossil Exhibit Trail and the Fossil Preparation Lab. The Badlands has been an epicenter for fossil discovery for decades and there’s a lot to learn about the area’s prehistoric inhabitants from scientists still conducting research at the lab.

Get more tips for visiting Badlands National Park

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Your Dakotas national park trip wouldn’t be complete without seeing Mount Rushmore in person. While the rest of the parks are a testament to nature’s creation, Mount Rushmore offers an ode to human engineering and persistence.

If it’s your first visit, you can quiz yourself on facts surrounding the four presidents enshrined on the hillside before you step into the information center. Enjoy the short hiking trail from the visitor center along the base of the monument to see the carvings from multiple angles.

When you do go inside, there’s a lot to learn about how this miracle of human engineering and construction came to be. From the many hurdles that had to be overcome to the techniques used to create the memorial, the informational exhibits are truly fascinating.

If you want to pick the brain of a park ranger there are five unique guided tours to choose from. All of these guided programs are free of charge and last anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes. You can also rent a multimedia device to learn the history of Mount Rushmore on a self-guided tour.

Get more tips for visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Custer State Park

Situated in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park has miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, great climbing routes, the beautiful Sylvan Lake which sits beneath granite crags, and wildlife.

The change in topography in this area is one part of what makes Custer so unique. Toward the south of the park there are rolling grasslands that provide a home for over 1,500 bison as well as pronghorns, bighorn sheep, elk, wild burros, wild turkeys, coyotes, and prairie dogs. Toward the north part of the park, the elevation increases dramatically and tall granite spires appear to shoot out of the ground dozens of feet into the air. The sheer sides and steep drops from the spires create a magnificent landscape.

While wildlife can be viewed throughout the park, the Wildlife Loop Road in the southern region of the park is known to have an abundance of animals that can be seen without even leaving your car. During our visit, I observed (and photographed) bison, pronghorn antelope, prairie dogs, and Custer’s begging burros during our drive along this road.

Custer State Park offers nine campgrounds in a variety of scenic locations. Nestled in a ponderosa pine forest near French Creek, Blue Bell Campground accommodates large RVs and tents with 31 camping sites. Center Lake Campground is located just above Center Lake with 71 sites shaded by ponderosa pines. This campground can accommodate smaller RVs and tents and all sites are available by same-day reservations. No electricity. Centrally located in the park near the visitor center, Game Lodge Campground offers 59 camping sites with electricity. Legion Lake Campground accommodates large RVs and tents. 26 camping sites with electricity are available.

Get more tips for visiting Custer State Park

Planning a national and state park RV road trip takes a lot of preparation. But if you target these four parks, you can check four amazing parks off your bucket list without a ton of driving in between.

Worth Pondering…

It was here that the romance of my life began.

—Theodore Roosevelt