Discovering the Black Hills
Located in the heart of the Midwest, the beauty of the Black Hills is simply something you have to see to believe. This national forest is one of a kind and offers a ton of unique experiences for travelers of all ages and experience levels.
So, if you have always dreamed of traveling through the Black Hills, or are just now hearing about it for the first time, we’re here to help ensure you don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime.
The Black Hills offer diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Here’s what you need to know:
Why the Black Hills Belong on Your Adventure List
If you’re a fan of outdoor exploration, natural wonders, and rich historical destinations, you should consider adding the Black Hills to your bucket list. This spot offers an experience catered to every type of traveler and some of the top-ranked hiking trails throughout the country.
Whether you’re looking for a new camping destination or a scenic route to add to your next road trip adventure, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in this stunning region.
Top Places to Visit in the Black Hills
Mount Rushmore National Park: It’s not a trip to the Black Hills without a stop to see Mount Rushmore! This is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and is an absolute must-see. You can drive through the tunnels of Iron Mountain Road to get an exterior view of the landmark, or plan a day to stop at the National Park for a more up-close and personal view of the presidents.
Sylvan Lake: Cooling off and relaxing at Sylvan Lake Park is a quintessential summer experience in the Black Hills. Plan a day to enjoy the serene calm this lake offers, or set off for adventure to hike one of the nearby trails.
Crazy Horse Memorial: This is a destination rich in Native American history. Here, you can see a massive mountain carving showcasing indigenous history dating back to the 1940s.
Cathedral Spires: Known for its granite rock formations, this destination is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. The Cathedral Spires are famous among rock climbers and home to some of the most challenging courses in the Midwest.
Adventure & Activities for All Kinds of Travelers
One of the greatest things about the Black Hills is that there’s so much to see and do.
For the more active travelers, there’s a selection of designated trails to choose from. With over 80 marked trailways and 450 miles of scenic views, you can spend days on end exploring the depths of the Black Hills. You can walk, bike, or even horseback ride your way through many of these paths and have the chance to see all this forest offers.
If you’re short on time, you can gas up your car and see the Black Hills from some of the country's most scenic highways. The Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road are just two of the many routes to see stunning landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Needle’s Eye Tunnel, and the outskirts of Custer State Park.
Camping is another one of the best ways to experience all that the Black Hills have to offer. With hundreds of campsites to choose from, you can choose from primitive or luxurious experiences and create a trip catered to your preferences.
Make sure you have a way to keep the entire crew hydrated and nourished! With the EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Refrigerator Freezer, you can easily keep your campsite stocked on all the drinks and goodies that will help to take your camping experience to the next level.
Staying Powered in the Wilderness
Backcountry travelers rely on portable power sources, off-grid gear, and efficient charging tools in the Black Hills. Many spots throughout the forest are located off the grid, meaning access to power and internet connection may be limited.
To ensure your phone stays charged, bring the EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10,000mAh) along for your travels. This portable power station is designed for off-the-grid experiences and can quickly charge your phone in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When’s the Best Time of Year to Visit the Black Hills?
To see all of the more popular landmarks, it’s recommended to travel to the Black Hills during the summer months. With the warm weather, this season will grant you full access to all state parks without the risk of closure due to poor conditions. Be sure to pack your patience, as this is also the busiest time of year to travel to the Black Hills.
Can I Camp Off-Grid in the Black Hills?
Yes, there are many options for dispersed camping throughout the Black Hills National Forest. These locations are fully primitive, meaning there are no amenities or marked campsites to choose from. For more information on off-grid camping, visit the National Forest website to learn more.
From Scenic Drives to Remote Campsites, the Black Hills Deliver Unmatched Experiences
Traveling through the Black Hills is something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. Whether you’re looking for a new camping expedition to plan or just want to see a new part of the country from the scenic routes mentioned above, we guarantee that this trip will be one to remember for a lifetime. The Black Hills provide access to forest trails, scenic byways, and camp-friendly environments for weekend trips or extended stays.
Make the most of your campsite with the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus + 160W Solar Panel. This powerful station is robust enough to keep your site connected and easy to take on the go, wherever your adventures may take you next.