Looking for a family vacation that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and fun with engaging kid activities? Look no further than Lake Park Campground in Rapid City, South Dakota. With its charming cabins and kitchens, the campground provides a wonderful place to relax after a day of exploring the best of the Black Hills. From hiking and wildlife watching to fun family attractions, there’s something for everyone nearby.
Let’s dive into some of the best family adventures and activities just a short drive from Lake Park Campground that will keep both kids and adults entertained.
1. Storybook Island – Donation for Admission – 15 Minutes from Lake Park Campground
For a whimsical family outing, head to Storybook Island in Rapid City, just 15 minutes from Lake Park Campground. This free, family-friendly park is a must-see for young children, with life-sized storybook characters, themed play areas, and fun sculptures. The park is designed to spark imagination and offers a fantastic spot for family photos.
The park is clean and well-maintained with numerous storybook character displays and play areas for kids to explore. There’s a train ride, carousel, and bounce house available for $2 per person, and the gift shop offers a cute selection of reasonably priced items including old-fashioned Golden Books.
Family-Friendly Tips:
• Best for younger children under 7, who will love all the little spots to play.
• Bring sunscreen and hats as there isn’t a lot of shade.
• Arrive early to beat the crowds and heat.
• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many picnic spots, or in the park just outside of Storybook Island.
• Don’t forget to bring money for donation, rides, ice cream, and the gift store.
2. Main Street Square Water Pad – 5 Minutes from Lake Park Campground
When the weather heats up, cool off at the Water Pad in Main Street Square, located just 5 minutes from Lake Park Campground. This interactive water play area is perfect for young children who love splashing around. Situated in the heart of downtown Rapid City, it’s an ideal spot to take a break from sightseeing and let the kids enjoy the water.
Family-Friendly Tips:
• Don’t forget to bring towels, sunscreen and a change of clothes for the kids.
• Afterward, stroll around Main Street Square to enjoy shops, restaurants, and public art.
• Parking can be tricky on main streets. However there is a parking garage right next to the Square for easy access to downtown.
• Explore local shopping, restaurants, ice cream shops, and the local bookstore nearby.
• One particular favorite is Silver Linings Creamery adjacent to the square, offering homemade handcrafted ice cream in traditional (e.g Vanilla & Strawberry) and non-traditional flavors (e.g. sage and cilantro lime). Whatever your preference, it’s delicious on a hot or cold day.
3. Pottery Painting in Rapid City – 10 Minutes from Lake Park Campground
For a more relaxed, creative activity, try pottery painting at one of the local studios in Rapid City, just a 10-minute drive from Lake Park Campground. This is a fantastic option for families who enjoy arts and crafts. Kids can paint their own pottery, whether it’s a mug, plate, or figurine, creating a personalized keepsake from your trip.
Family-Friendly Tips:
• Pottery painting is a great rainy day activity or a fun way to spend an afternoon.
• Consider booking a reservation if you have a large group, especially during peak tourist season.
• Located on the east side of the city, it’s near Dakota Butcher where you can pick up quality items to take back to camp.
• It’s also near Rushmore Crossing, with a variety of stores and places to eat.
4. Custer State Park Wildlife Loop – 30 Minutes from Lake Park Campground
No trip to the Black Hills is complete without a visit to Custer State Park, just 30 minutes from Lake Park Campground. The Wildlife Loop Road is a fantastic way for your family to spot bison, elk, and pronghorns while driving through the park. There are also plenty of opportunities for short hikes, picnics, and scenic stops.
Family-Friendly Tips:
• Stop at Sylvan Lake, where you can enjoy a paddleboat ride or relax by the water.
• Early morning or late evening are the best times to see wildlife.
• The scenery along the drive is stunning, with forests, meadows, and rolling hills
• Safety Tip: Despite looking friendly, wildlife are just that: WILD. Do not get out of your car or approach any animals, especially buffalo, as there have been many incidents with visitors being injured.
5. Mount Rushmore National Memorial – 30 Minutes from Lake Park Campground
A visit to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a must for families staying at Lake Park Campground. Only a 30-minute drive away, this iconic monument features the carved faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln. The Presidential Trail offers a great walk with views of the monument, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Family-Friendly Tips:
• The Visitor Center has interactive exhibits that are fun for children.
• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
• For those staying a little later – watch the evening lighting ceremony during summer months—it’s a moving experience for the whole family.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers (the weather in the hills can be unpredictable) and sunscreen and hats as there is very little shade.
6. Badlands National Park – 1 Hour and 15 Minutes from Lake Park Campground
For families who enjoy unique landscapes, Badlands National Park is a short drive from the campground. Known for its dramatic geological formations, the Badlands provide an exciting place to explore. With easy trails and scenic overlooks, it’s an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Family-Friendly Tips:
• The Notch Trail is a kid-friendly hike with stunning views.
• Drive the Badlands Loop Road to see the changing colors of the rock formations.
• Stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center for informative exhibits.
• Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as there’s little shade and few resources. When you think you’ve packed enough…pack more.
• Need to stretch your legs during the drive? Visit the Delta-09 Missile Silo via I-90 exit 116, which offers a rare opportunity to view a nuclear missile once on constant alert during the Cold War.
7. Wind Cave National Park – 45 Minutes from Lake Park Campground
Explore one of the longest caves in the world at Wind Cave National Park, about 45 minutes from Lake Park Campground. The guided cave tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the underground world, while the above-ground trails provide scenic views of the surrounding prairies and wildlife.
Family-Friendly Tips:
• The Bison Flats Trail is an easy hike for families, where you might spot bison roaming freely.
• The Natural Entrance tour is good for families, but has some steep areas and stairs.
• Above ground, you can often spot bison, elk, and prairie dogs.
• The boxwork formations in the cave are unique and fascinating.
• Wear sturdy shoes for cave tours and bring a light jacket as the cave stays cool year-round.
8. Lake Pactola – 25 Minutes from Lake Park Campground
If your family loves water activities, Lake Pactola is just a 25-minute drive from Lake Park Campground. This beautiful lake is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. It’s a great place to enjoy a family day on the water or a relaxing walk along the shoreline.
Family-Friendly Tips:
• Rent a canoe, kayak, or pontoon boat for a fun family outing.
• Make reservations for boat rentals in advance, especially during peak season.
• Bring water shoes as the shoreline can be rocky.
• There is a small Marina for snacks, but it’s best to stock up on drinks and food before heading to the lake.
• The wind in South Dakota is cool, even on hot days—apply sunscreen liberally and often while on the water.
Why Choose Lake Park Campground for Your Family Stay?
When it comes to family campgrounds with cabins, Lake Park Campground is one of the best family campgrounds in the Black Hills. Whether you’re staying in a cozy cabin or an RV, the campground offers the perfect home base for your family adventures. Plus, its proximity to family-friendly attractions like Storybook Island, Main Street Square Water Pad, and Custer State Park makes it an ideal choice for a fun-filled family vacation.
With a variety of activities to enjoy, comfortable cabins, and access to the area’s top attractions, Lake Park Campground ensures your family will have a memorable experience in the Black Hills.
Book Your Family Adventure Today
Ready to experience all the family-friendly fun the Black Hills has to offer? Lake Park Campground has everything you need for a fantastic getaway. Book your stay at one of the best family campgrounds and enjoy a family vacation full of exploration, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for family campgrounds with cabins or campgrounds near Mount Rushmore, Lake Park Campground is the ideal place to stay for your next family trip.