Travel Journals

  • Picture Yourself — in Custer State Park

    Custer State Park, located in beautiful South Dakota, is a nature lover's paradise. Spanning over 71,000 acres of rugged granite peaks, pine-covered hillsides, and clear blue lakes, the park offers breathtaking views of the Black Hills.

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  • There's no place like the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota for some good old-fashioned horseback camping. With miles of trails just waiting for you and your horse, you'll find plenty of welcoming spots to set up camp. Start your adventure in the Badlands and experience life like a true cowboy on the trails.

    Saddle Up for Adventure in the Black Hills
  • Let me just start by saying this: the Black Hills and Badlands are a hiker’s dream come true. Whether you’re wandering through the shaded pine forests of the Black Hills or crossing the alien-like terrain of the Badlands, there’s something about this place that makes every trail feel like it was made just for you.

    Badlands National Park
  • The Pinnacle Zip Tour at Rushmore Tramway Adventures introduced my family to a thrilling escapade unlike any other. In 2017, the Black Hills welcomed this aerial adventure, featuring dual zip lines and enveloping us in a mile of breathtaking forest.
    Keystone
  • January in the Black Hills and Badlands region is full of fun and flavors – and, most importantly - a slew of festivals and events. Though it may be tempting to hide under the covers until the cold weather passes, we invite you to step out and enjoy these local classics.

    Learn to Love January Again: Four events to attend in the Black Hills and Badlands
  • The Black Hills and Badlands, a place where history, culture, and nature intertwine to create an unforgettable travel experience. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Rapid City, explore breathtaking vistas in a 200,000-acre national park, and delve into the Central Hills' unique activities and charming towns.

    Custer State Park
  • If you're in search of a peaceful escape that still keeps you within arm's reach of the Black Hills' top attractions, Trailshead Lodge is your ideal haven.

    Lead
  • If you happen to drive through the small town of Wall, South Dakota, you might notice a few signs along the road advertising a legendary place for donuts. That place is the Wall Drug Store, a tourist attraction that has been around since 1931.

    Wall
  • Ice climbing offers a unique thrill for those craving adventure amid the stunning Black Hills & Badlands. What sets this activity apart? Winter in these parts transforms cascading waterfalls into sculpted ice routes. It's a mesmerizing playground. Ice climbers often flock to spots like Bridal Veil Falls in Spearfish Canyon.

    Custer State Park