Kemp's Kamp Campground

The Great Outdoors

Those looking to explore the rolling hills and rugged peaks of western South Dakota can visit Black Hills National Forest in Hill City. Stretching into neighboring Wyoming, the expansive national forest is almost like a mystical wonderland within the Great Plains. The towering pines of the hills, mountains, and valleys create a hideaway from the rest of the world. Hikers of all abilities can explore the various trails ranging in experience levels from easy to difficult. Visitors can travel to the various sacred Lakota sites, such as Black Elk Peak, and, respectfully and within limitations, explore these unique and powerful locations. If you’re traveling to the region in the winter, several of the hiking trails are converted to cross-country skiing trails so that you can still explore the many hideaways of this unique wilderness.Lovers of the whimsical will enjoy a trip to Wind Cave National Park near Hot Springs, just south of the RV campground. You can start your day with a stroll across the prairie land, keeping an eye out for bison, deer, and elk. There are several trails you can choose from, depending on your experience level. As the sun gets higher and the day gets hotter, you can retreat underground to Wind Cave. One of the longest cave systems in the world, the caves stretch under the prairie and create a world of their own. Thanks to guided tours, you can explore the chambers of the cave, enjoy the unique formations, and are guaranteed to learn something new.Geology lovers should take a day trip to Badlands National Park near Wall. The stark and unique geologic formations against the (relatively) flat prairie and bright blue sky create a landscape unlike any other. You can hike along the trails that highlight several of the park’s most notorious formations, however, exercise caution if you are exploring after heavy rainfall. You will get to see canyons, cliff and bluff faces, and sharp peaks, all in a stunning array of colors. If you want to learn something new during your adventures, you can head to the Fossil Exhibit Trail. The Badlands region was once home to several species of Ice Age megafauna, such as sabertooth cats and woolly rhinos. Along the Fossil Exhibit Trail, you can see replicas of some of the skeletons that have been found within the park. While hiking, be on the look-out for some current “megafauna,” such as bison, bighorn sheep, and elk.

Explore the Area

Americana lovers should devote some time to exploring the historical and artistic sites of Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. Mount Rushmore was completed in 1941 and showcases stone portraits of U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt. Crazy Horse Memorial depicts the Lakota war hero Crazy Horse. It was designed and started by one of the artists who worked on Mount Rushmore. It has been in progress since 1948 and is still worked on by the artist’s family. Once completed, the Crazy Horse Memorial will be the largest sculpture in the world.Lovers of animals can head to Bear Country USA. This drive-through safari showcases some of the United States’ most quintessential wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, black bears, elk, wolves, mountain lions, and so much more. One of the most popular features is the section called “Babyland,” where visitors can see the new baby animals playing in the meadows.History lovers can enjoy a day spent at The Journey Museum and Learning Center. Showcasing the history of the Black Hills region and the cultural history of the Native tribes of the Dakotas, there is always something new to learn. With rotating exhibits showcasing various elements and subjects of these rich histories, there is plenty to see. The museum also hosts a variety of events focused on education.When you book an RV rental near Keystone, you might need to restock and refuel your rig. The shopping and fueling choices surrounding Kemp’s Kamp are somewhat limited, though there is a variety of options in nearby Rapid City.When spending time out on the prairie, treat yourself to a frontier classic: bison. Whether you treat yourself to a bison burger, tenderloin, or jerky, there are plenty of ways to sample this local meat.