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A Camper’s Paradise: The Best Scenic Drives Near Lake Park Campground

Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Lake Park Campground is your launchpad for epic scenic drives, quirky roadside stops, and wild encounters you’ll be talking about for years. Within 30 minutes of your cozy cabin, you’ll find yourself winding through granite tunnels so narrow you’ll hold your breath, spotting bison traffic jams, and discovering secret swimming holes only locals know about.

IMPORTANT: RVs and motorhomes are fun for roadtrips, but don’t fit well on many of the narrow winding paths through the Black Hills. Be sure to check for any size restrictions before setting off on your scenic drive.

The Engineering Marvel: Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

Kick off your adventure with the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway a 70-mile loop that’s part thrill ride, part history lesson. Designed by a governor with a wild streak, this route combines four highways into one jaw-dropping journey. Start on the Needles Highway, where the legendary Needles Eye Tunnel is just 8 feet wide, fold in your mirrors and hope for the best! The granite spires here pierce the sky, and every pull-off is a postcard.

Next, cruise Iron Mountain Road, where the world’s only pigtail bridges spiral you up and down the hills. Three tunnels on this stretch perfectly frame Mount Rushmore in the distance—so keep your camera ready.

Fun fact: Peter Norbeck mapped this entire byway on foot and horseback in the 1920s, refusing to let engineers blast straight through the hills. He wanted every curve to reveal a new surprise, and he nailed it.

Don’t miss Sylvan Lake, a pristine alpine gem surrounded by granite formations and an easy walking trail. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a paddle.

Wildlife Loop Road: Your Black Hills Safari

Think you need to go to Africa for a safari? Think again. The Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park is an 18-mile adventure where bison, pronghorn, elk, and the famous “beggin’ burros” have the right of way. Bison often cause “buffalo jams” as they lumber across the road, calves in tow. Keep your windows up and your camera handy—these are the kind of close encounters you’ll brag about forever.

The burros, descendants of old mining pack animals, are notorious for sticking their heads right into your car looking for snacks (don’t feed them, no matter how cute they are!). For the best wildlife viewing, hit the loop early or late in the day, when the animals are most active and the light is pure magic.

Wildlife is just that – WILD. Do not approach, nor try to pet despite how friendly they might look. Many tourists have made the mistake of trying to pet buffalo and learned a hard lesson.

Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway: Waterfalls and Wildflowers

Feeling adventurous? Ask a local about the Devil’s Bathtub, a series of natural pools and a smooth rock waterslide tucked away in the canyon. The hike is a bit rugged (and you’ll get your feet wet), but the payoff is a swim in one of the Black Hills’ most secret spots.

Ready for a change of pace? Head north to the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, a 19-mile stretch that feels like a secret world. Towering limestone cliffs, lush forests, and sparkling waterfalls make this drive a local favorite. Start at Bridal Veil Falls, a 60-foot cascade right off the road, and then hike to Roughlock Falls for a two-tiered waterfall surrounded by wildflowers.

Nemo Road and the Rock Maze: Hidden Playgrounds

For a drive off the beaten path, take Nemo Road north from Rapid City. This winding route follows Rapid Creek through pine forests and meadows, with plenty of spots to pull over and explore. The Rock Maze is a natural playground of giant boulders and narrow passages—perfect for kids and kids at heart. Pack a picnic and let your inner explorer roam free.
Stop in the tiny town of Nemo for a slice of homemade pie at the local general store. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name—even if you’ve only been there five minutes.

Quirky Detours: Golf Balls, Ghost Towns, and Wine

No Black Hills road trip is complete without a few quirky stops. In Lead, you can visit the old Homestake Mine, once the largest and deepest gold mine in North America. For a small fee, you can smack a golf ball into the 1,200-foot-deep open cut—losing your ball has never been so satisfying.

If you love a good ghost story, detour to the historic town of Rochford. With just a handful of residents, a one-room schoolhouse, and the famously rustic Moonshine Gulch Saloon, it’s a step back in time. Order a burger, chat with the locals, and soak up the Wild West vibes.

Stargazing and Sunsets: The Black Hills After Dark

As the sun dips below the pines, the Black Hills transform into a stargazer’s paradise. With almost no light pollution, the night sky here is ablaze with stars, planets, and the Milky Way stretching from horizon to horizon. For the best views, head to an open meadow in Custer State Park or pull over along the Wildlife Loop Road. Bring a blanket, lie back, and watch for shooting stars. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the northern lights.
If you’re near Mt Rushmore – As dusk begins to settle, make your way back to Mt. Rushmore for the truly spectacular EVENING LIGHTING CEREMONY. This is the most attended program in the entire National Park Service, and for good reason! From May 23 through September 30, 2025, this moving 45-minute event features a ranger talk, a poignant film about the memorial, and a powerful tribute to U.S. veterans. It’s an experience that will give you goosebumps.

CEREMONY TIMES:

  • 9:00 PM: MAY 24 THROUGH AUGUST 10, 2025
  • 8:00 PM: AUGUST 11 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2025
And don’t forget the sunsets—whether you’re perched on a granite overlook or relaxing by the lake at your campground, the colors here will make you believe in magic.

The Black Hills: More Than a Destination

At Lake Park Campground, you’re not just camping—you’re stepping into a story that’s been unfolding for millions of years. The Black Hills are a place where granite spires pierce the sky, wild herds roam free, and every road leads to a new adventure.
So grab your keys, roll down the windows, and let the wind guide you. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hunting for hidden swimming holes, or just soaking up the views, the best memories are made when you take the scenic route. And remember: in the Black Hills, the journey is the destination. Happy exploring!