If you’ve ever looked into visiting Mount Rushmore, it quickly becomes apparent that accommodations in the Black Hills are … limited. Standard hotels and motels line the main road where visitors tend to stay, providing a roof for sleeping in between excursions and not much else.
How to Get There
Drive past the fudge shops, mom-and-pop eateries, and mini golf establishments to reach the dirt road leading to Under Canvas, where pitched tents quickly start popping up left and right. There are seven tent options available for those interested in staying on the camping grounds – from the large cabin-style Safari Tent to the Stargazer that comes with its own private bathroom. No matter the size, each is equipped with wooden floors and elevated beds that definitely beat sleeping bags on the ground.
The Grounds
All sleeping quarters surround the main reception tent, complete with wooden furnishings, board games (so kids stay off the electronics), and amazing deck views overlooking hilly terrain and Mount Rushmore. The communal space is also home to Embers, the onsite eatery. Grab a breakfast burrito before hitting the great outdoors, or chow down on pulled pork tacos before turning in for the night.
On-Site Activities
If you aren’t in the mood to do the planning, Under Canvas is officially your best friend. Book a horseback riding session that takes you through the Old West, or see wild buffalo via safari Jeep tour. There are plenty of simple outdoor activities to easily take part in as well – from hiking trails on your own guided tour to biking around the nearby Forest Service land.
Off-Site Excursions
Under Canvas is situated in a great location that allows for some seriously impressive exploration. Local excursions to the west include Mount Rushmore (20-minute drive), Crazy Horse Memorial (45-minute drive), and Custer State Park (45-minute drive). Other must-see attractions that are only an hour or two away include Deadwood, the city known for its gold rush history, the Badlands National Park, and Wall Drug, South Dakota’s main roadside attraction that dates back to 1931.
