Travel Guides
Travel Guides
The Dakotas: Two Unforgettable RV Destinations Every Traveler Should Experience
Embark on an unforgettable Dakota RV road trip, where rugged natural landscapes meet vibrant local stops.
Overview
If your perfect RV trip includes wide‑open skies, wildlife encounters, rugged national parks, and small towns overflowing with charm, then North Dakota and South Dakota might be your next great adventure.
Most RVers think of the Dakotas as “drive‑through states,” but after exploring both for ourselves, we learned the truth: the Dakotas are two of the most underrated, awe‑inspiring RV destinations in America.
Together, they offer dramatic Badlands, iconic monuments, family‑friendly adventures, and some of the most unique RV experiences you’ll find anywhere in the country. Experiencing it all from the comfort of our RV made the journey even sweeter.
1
North Dakota: Medora & Theodore Roosevelt National Park
A Town Saved by History (and Mr. Bubble!)
Medora nearly faded into a ghost town until Harold Schafer — the businessman behind Mr. Bubble — invested millions to restore its charm. Today, thanks to the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation, the town buzzes with frontier‑style boardwalks, shops, restaurants, playgrounds, zip lines, and live music drifting through the streets.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park: A Hidden Gem
Right next door sits Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a place that surprised us in the best way possible. The South Unit is bursting with color, wildlife, and dramatic Badlands formations. Sunrise and sunset paint the canyons in glowing reds and golds, and the Little Missouri River winds through the landscape like a ribbon.
If the weather isn’t perfect for hiking, this is a fantastic drive‑through park with plenty of overlooks and wildlife viewing.
You’ll See:
1) Hundreds of bison, including adorable baby “red dogs”
2) Prairie dogs chirping and popping out of burrows
3) Sweeping, untouched Badlands views
It’s peaceful, vibrant, and perfect for RVers who love nature without the crowds.
Medora Musical: A Must See Experience
Running every summer since 1965, the Medora Musical is one of the longest‑running outdoor shows in the country. The 2,900‑seat amphitheater carved into the Badlands is breathtaking, and the Pitchfork Steak Fondue dinner beforehand is a classic North Dakota experience.
Horseback Trail Ride
Saddle up and ride “Point‑to‑Point” just like Teddy Roosevelt did. This family‑friendly sunset ride was one of our favorite Medora memories — gentle horses, glowing skies, and views that feel like stepping into a postcard.
Where to Stay:
Medora Campground: Full hookups, river views, and walkable access to downtown Medora and Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Address: 3370 Pool Dr, Medora, ND 58645
Phone Number: (701) 623-4444Boots Campground: A quiet retreat just outside town with full hookups and peaceful surroundings — great for families.
Address: 3576 E River Rd S, Medora, ND 58645
Phone Number: (701) 501-3344
2
South Dakota: Badlands National Park & Spearfish Adventures
Just a few hours south, South Dakota brings its own brand of magic — sharper Badlands, iconic monuments, and some of the best RV‑friendly destinations in the Midwest.
Badlands National Park: Otherworldly Beauty
Jagged formations, colorful layers, and wide‑open skies make every turn feel like stepping into another world. This park in particular has an open hike policy allowing you to explore off-trail. Just bring water, know your route, and leave no trace.
Wildlife Viewing
Badlands is full of wildlife:
1) Bison (yes, they really use the park sign as a backscratcher!)
2) Bighorn sheep scaling cliffs
3) Prairie dogs popping up to say hello
4) Coyotes, snakes, mule deer, pronghorn
Always keep your distance — bison can run 35 mph.
Badlands Loop Road
The Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) is a must‑do. Short on time? Stick to the eastern section. More time? Drive the full 39‑mile loop for endless overlooks and wildlife.
Spearfish Canyon
You will not have a shortage of sightseeing or experiences here!
Spearfish Canyon feels magical the moment you enter it. The scenic drive alone is worth the trip, with towering limestone walls and lush forest lining the road. At the end of the canyon, there’s an easy walk that leads to Spearfish Falls—a stunning 47‑foot waterfall that’s perfect for families. After soaking in the views, you can head to the historic Latchstring Restaurant for a well‑earned lunch.
Deadwood
Just a short drive away, the town of Deadwood offers a lively step back into the Wild West. Its streets are lined with old‑style saloons, shops, restaurants, and daily shootout reenactments that bring the town’s gold‑rush history to life. A visit to Mount Moriah Cemetery adds even more depth to the experience, where legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are laid to rest.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Farther south, Mount Rushmore National Memorial stands as one of America’s most iconic landmarks—and it’s even more impressive in person. The Presidential Trail Loop lets you get up close to the massive granite carvings while weaving through shaded boardwalks and interpretive signs that share the monument’s history.
Devil’s Tower National Monument
Just over an hour from Spearfish, Devil’s Tower National Monument rises dramatically from the landscape, an 876‑foot geologic wonder that has inspired stories, legends, and scientific curiosity for generations. The Tower Loop Trail offers beautiful views, opportunities to watch climbers scale the rock columns, and quiet moments to observe the prayer bundles placed respectfully by Native visitors.
Elkhorn Ridge
Finally, there’s the experience you won’t find anywhere else: feeding the buffalo at Elkhorn Ridge. This guided tour takes you right into the pasture with the resort’s herd, where massive buffalo—including Curly, the 1,800‑pound bull—come in close for their favorite treats. It’s messy, hilarious, and unforgettable, easily one of the most unique RV resort activities you’ll ever encounter.
Where to Stay:
Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort: This remains one of our family's top summer destinations. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering a huge pool with multiple hot tubs, an on‑site restaurant, beautiful mountain views, and even an 18‑hole golf course.
Address: 20189 US-85, Spearfish, SD 57783
Phone Number: (605) 722-1800Inside Badlands National Park: Minutes from the Pinnacles entrance — incredible views, but no utilities; arrive early as spots fill up fast!
1) Cedar Pass Campground (electric hookups, restrooms, showers)
Address: 20681 SD-240, Interior, SD 57750
Phone Number: (855) 765-07372) Sage Creek Campground (rustic, no hookups, bison often wander through)
Address: Wall, SD 57790
Phone Number: (605) 433-5361
Final Thoughts
Both states are easy to navigate with an RV, full of campgrounds, and rich with experiences that feel authentic and unforgettable. If you’re planning an RV trip and want a blend of national parks, wildlife, history, entertainment, and wide‑open beauty, put both Dakotas at the top of your list.
Whether you’re watching bison roam the Badlands of North Dakota or feeding buffalo in Spearfish, you’ll find yourself wondering why more RVers aren’t talking about these incredible destinations.
COST-SAVING TIPS FOR RVERS
1) Stock up before arriving — groceries can be pricey in small towns
2) Ask about weekly rates
3) Book early (many parks close seasonally)
4) Check out free activities first
5) Always check weather and road conditions, especially when boondocking
