south dakota: the badlands & custer state park

I’d never really thought twice about South Dakota. Before we started on our road trip, I admittedly didn’t even know the Badlands were IN South Dakota. I really should brush up on my US geography (yet another justification for why this trip was a must).

Now, after seeing the Badlands National Park in person, South Dakota has made its permanent mark. It may be one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes I’ve ever seen. It’s just so different. And simply because of that it’s something I’ll infallibly always remember.

We spent a good 3 days in the Badlands. It was just so breathtaking and camp was easy. The National Park did an outstanding job with the facilities — we had gorgeous views of the bluffs from our sight, running water, and the camp showers even had hot water. A true luxury.

Alas, the time came to head west to Custer State Park and Sylvan Lake. Another insane landscape and a drop of approximately 30 degrees. South Dakota kept us on our toes.

Gotta shoutout to the Needles Highway. Bluffs and evergreens and tunnels carved through the cliffs. The smallest tunnel we drove through was 8’ wide. Millie is approximately 7’6” wide. People thought we were nuts driving her through. Maybe we were. Worth it.

We treated ourselves to a hotel in Deadwood, SD last night. Headed to Wyoming today, freshly showered and ready for the next adventure.