Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know
Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know
One of President Theodore Roosevelt’s designations—Wind Cave National Park—is the seventh overall national park in the United States and also the first cave to be deemed worthy. Located in the southern part of the Black Hills National Forest, Wind Cave has much lore surrounding it and is a popular spot for families on vacations—especially on RV road trips.
Wind Cave has cave formations unique from all others in the country. So even if you’re a seasoned spelunker and you’ve seen every stalagmite you think you’ll ever need to see, odds are that Wind Cave has something new in store for you. And even after the guided tour, you can enjoy the many acres of wildlife sanctuary the park has to offer.
Cave is right there in the name, so you have some idea what to expect. But, more than just stalagmites and stalactites, Wind Cave also features boxwork formations. In fact, it’s the largest concentration of these rare formations in the world. Boxwork looks like honeycomb and is formed through calcium deposits solidifying in cracks around rock—and the rock then erodes away.
The best way to experience Wind Cave is by a guided ranger tour. Tour sizes are limited, and there are restrictions on what can be brought into the cave, but it’s the only way to navigate the maze-like twists and turns safely.
There are several tour options:
Up above the caves, there are 30,000 acres of forest and prairie land. More than 30 miles of hiking trails weave through this extremely biodiverse area. The rolling prairie and forest stretches out as far as you can see.
There is a total of 11 trails through the park, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. You’ll see mixed-grass prairie and Ponderosa pines surrounding you. You can expect to see cliffs, canyons, creeks, and much more as you hike. The trails are:
Wind Cave National Park is a sanctuary to a wide range of wildlife. And you’re able to view these animals in their wild habitat. Animals may not be easy to spot, but the best way to view them is to drive slowly through the paved roads and keep your eyes peeled. While you’re hiking, you may come across a variety of bird species that call the area home.
Pay attention to the biodiverse area around you when you’re looking, and you’ll come to understand why different animals like the places they do. While some animals, like bison, prefer to roam openly in prairies, animals like elk prefer seclusion. There is a wide array of animals in the park:
While the park itself isn’t one of the largest in the country, the large amount of diverse land still makes it perfect for horseback riding. If you’re trailering your own behind your RV, you’ll find plenty of areas and prairie to enjoy.
No official resources in the park provide horses, but there are stables nearby that run horseback rides across the prairie. There are some restrictions on where horses are allowed, so pay close attention to go on a supervised group ride to have the best riding experience. In order to ride, you’ll need to obtain a free backcountry permit from the Visitor’s Center.
As part of rugged South Dakota, the area around Wind Cave has seen a lot of history as part of the westward expansion. There are several places in and around the park that are worth visiting on day trips, and they range from educational to leisurely.
A nearby mineral spa is the perfect place to go for a little relaxation and pampering with natural hot springs that range from 88 to 102 degrees. Another spot is Camp Custer, named after a former Army outpost, named for General Custer who camped here during one of his campaigns. And, the Black Hills Playhouse dates back to the 1940s.
This area inside Wind Cave National Park is the park’s only campground. Elk Mountain Campground straddles a ponderosa pine forest and the prairie, giving you an opportunity to camp among diverse plants. RVs are welcome, but there are no proper utility hookups which means you’ll be dry camping. That’s one of the exciting parts of staying here, though. You’ll have access to trailheads, drinking water, and flush toilets. These spots are first-come, first-served.
If you prefer a blend of nature and less-natural attractions, Beaver Lake Campground might be a good bet. The campground offers full utility hookups, so you can take advantage of your RV. There are two heated pools and a water slide, three bathhouses, and free Wi-Fi throughout the park. There’s also a store onsite to help you stock up for the rest of your trip.
Sitting on a big chunk of land, the Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort is near the national park and includes a variety of amenities. There are full RV hookups, plus a general store onsite with food and stocking supplies. A playground and access to trails, plus a pool, are all more perks to staying here. And if it’s what you’re interested in, there’s also a historic casino nearby.
Back in 1874, General George Custer rolled through southern South Dakota and set up camp. Now, you can camp where Custer did, at Custer’s Gulch RV Community. Thankfully, you don’t have to do it in the same manner that he did. You can enjoy full RV hookups and laundry, hot showers, and flush toilets all on site. There’s also access to hiking trails from the camp, and free Wi-Fi.
Kampgrounds of America has a great reputation among RVers, and Hot Springs/Blackhills KOA fits the bill. Tucked under shady ponderosa pines, every RV site has full utility hookups. You’ll also get free Wi-Fi, a large heated pool, mini golf on site, and a community fire pit. RV sites also come with cable TV hookups, and the store on site has a snack bar.
There aren’t any dining options inside Wind Cave National Park, but that’s ok because you’re in an RV. This is your chance to utilize the RV’s kitchen and make all of your own meals. A little preparation ahead of time, and grocery shopping, and you’ll be set for your entire vacation. You can also plan a few fun campfire meals like hot dogs or, if you bring some cast iron pans or a dutch oven, something even more advanced.
Hot Springs, South Dakota is a small town, but has a good number of diverse, local restaurants. From dining on the finer side of things to standard pizza joints, you’ll find a place that works for whatever you’re craving. Diners and casual spots for sandwiches, grilles with delicious meats, and bakeries and cafés for your morning coffee. From family-friendly to adult-focused, you won’t come away hungry.
Whether it’s a quick pit stop in Hot Springs for a meal or a night out on the town, you’ll enjoy the dining options. Whatever you’re craving, keep an eye as you’re driving through, and you’ll find the restaurant that’s right for you.