Enroute to Mt Rushmore

[Canonman]

We are about to start our trip from SLC to Custer State Park, SD. This is our first trip out this way. We are thinking of overnighting in either Rawlins or Casper, Wyo. Any recommendations a for an overnight spot?? Also looking for things not to miss while touring the Custer SP area. We like off the beaten path stuff but are planning to visit the biggies for sure.
Thanks for the help!

[Murphsmom]

Don't forget to stop in Hot Springs SD and tour the Mammoth Site.

[Canonman]

Great Idea
Thanks, I really enjoy the natural history spots. DW will likely be looking for shopping opportunities:)

[Laredo291OH]

Your DW should like Wall Drug Store in Wall SD then. :) As for overnight, we used Walmart and Cabela's when we were out they way. We have done that several times around the country, always works well for us.

[Canonman]

We'll be driving about 6+ hours day 1. Do the folks at WM mind if you unhook and put out the slides?

[Murphsmom]

Don't forget to stop in Hot Springs SD and tour the Mammoth Site.
If your wife is into quilting, there is a lovely little quilt shop in Hot Springs. We also enjoyed browsing at the Christmas shop and the Scandinavian shop on Highway 16 outside of Rapid City.

As far as camping at WalMart goes, we've only done it once. The lot we stayed in was very uneven, so we had to unhitch to lower the front of the trailer. We parked with the slide over the lawn edge, so we did put it out. Just be sure to check with the store management to make sure the particular store allows overnighting. And of course, go inside and buy something.

[chuckster57]

Might as well go to Crazy horse, eat the buffalo stew and Indian fry bread.

[Canonman]

Crazy Horse is definitely on the list. As for Wall Drug, I think the DW will have to explore that on her own. A bit to much of a tourist mob scene for my liking.
Day trips include Jewel Cave and Wind Cave. Of course some dawn patrols across the Wildlife Loop. Our usual model has me out before dawn headed for a spot for wildlife or a sunrise landscape. Then back to the camp to meet up for breakfast and chores. We pack a lunch and head out for some point of interest or just to explore. Evenings are spent usually shooting a sunset landscape or scouting for the days sunrise location. Depending on the location, we often will snack for lunch and return to camp for an early dinner then off for the evening.
Looking at the map, I'm seeing at least 4 road trips, i.e. loops that look interesting. Not sure if we'll make the ride to Devil's Tower or not but thinking about it anyway.
Any suggested points of interest around the Black Hills area would be appreciated. Thanks
Oh, and yes, shopping opportunities:D

[Lariatbob]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVvScIscBdo

[JRTJH]

The OP's trip to Rapid City/Mt Rushmore may have already been put "in the history book", but for anyone who is going to be in or around Rapid City and is interested in "Presidential History", there are lifesize bronze statues of all the presidents located throughout downtown Rapid City. An afternoon "walking tour" of that area with a camera could produce some very interesting photos.

[Desert185]

Good, common sense tips for Walmart boondocking. While we generally don't plan on overnighting at a Walmart, its a good alternative when the need arises.