Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is one of the most famous landmarks in the United States. This iconic site features the faces of four U.S. presidents-George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln-carved into granite cliffs. While Mount Rushmore is an incredible destination, the surrounding region is home to several breathtaking national parks and protected areas that are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
If you’re planning a trip to Mount Rushmore, be sure to explore these top national parks near Mount Rushmore. From rugged landscapes to underground caves, these parks offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences.
1. Badlands National Park
Why Visit Badlands National Park?
Located about an hour east of Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park features some of the most unique landscapes in the U.S. With its eroded rock formations, deep canyons, and fossil-rich terrain, this park is a must-see for those who love geology and photography.
Top Attractions and Activities
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Badlands Loop Road – A scenic drive offering stunning views of layered rock formations.
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Notch Trail – A short but adventurous hike with a wooden ladder climb.
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Yellow Mounds Overlook – A viewpoint showcasing vibrant yellow and orange hills.
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Fossil Exhibit Trail – A boardwalk trail highlighting the park’s prehistoric past.
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Wildlife Viewing – Spot bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and coyotes.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, while summer can be extremely hot.
2. Wind Cave National Park
Why Visit Wind Cave National Park?
Located just 30 miles south of Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park is home to one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world. It is known for its rare boxwork formations-delicate, honeycomb-like structures found in very few caves.
Top Attractions and Activities
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Wind Cave Tours – Guided tours explore the intricate underground passages.
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Rankin Ridge Trail – A short hike leading to panoramic views of the Black Hills.
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Wildlife Viewing – Home to one of the largest publicly owned bison herds in the U.S.
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Cave Boxwork Formations – A rare geological feature unique to Wind Cave.
Best Time to Visit
Wind Cave is open year-round, but spring and fall offer the best weather for both hiking and cave tours.
3. Custer State Park
Why Visit Custer State Park?
Although not a national park, Custer State Park is one of the most spectacular state parks in the U.S. Located just a short drive from Mount Rushmore, this park offers a variety of landscapes, from rolling prairies to granite peaks.
Top Attractions and Activities
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Wildlife Loop Road – A scenic drive where you can see bison, pronghorn, and wild burros.
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Needles Highway – A winding road passing through towering granite spires.
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Sylvan Lake – A beautiful lake surrounded by rock formations, perfect for kayaking and hiking.
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Black Elk Peak – The highest point in South Dakota, offering breathtaking views.
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Camping & Fishing – Excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and summer are great for outdoor activities, while fall offers stunning foliage.
4. Jewel Cave National Monument
Why Visit Jewel Cave National Monument?
Located about 30 minutes west of Mount Rushmore, Jewel Cave is the third-longest cave in the world, with over 200 miles of mapped passages. It gets its name from the sparkling calcite crystals that decorate the cave walls.
Top Attractions and Activities
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Scenic Cave Tours – Guided tours explore underground chambers filled with fascinating rock formations.
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Discovery Tour – A short and easy tour for beginners.
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Historic Lantern Tour – A unique experience that mimics early cave exploration.
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Hiking Trails – Explore above-ground trails like Canyons Trail and Hell Canyon Trail.
Best Time to Visit
Jewel Cave is open year-round, but summer is the most popular season.
5. Devils Tower National Monument
Why Visit Devils Tower?
Located two hours west of Mount Rushmore in Wyoming, Devils Tower National Monument is one of the most mysterious and awe-inspiring natural landmarks in the U.S. This massive rock formation rises 867 feet above the surrounding landscape and is considered sacred by Native American tribes.
Top Attractions and Activities
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Tower Trail – A short, scenic hike around the base of the tower.
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Climbing – One of the best rock climbing destinations in the U.S.
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Prairie Dog Town – A fun stop to watch playful prairie dogs.
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Stargazing – Devils Tower is a great location for night sky photography.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal, as summer can be crowded and hot.
6. Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Why Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park?
Located about five hours north of Mount Rushmore in North Dakota, this national park offers stunning badlands landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a strong connection to Theodore Roosevelt’s conservation legacy.
Top Attractions and Activities
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Scenic Drives – Explore the park’s rugged badlands and prairies.
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Wildlife Watching – Home to bison, wild horses, elk, and prairie dogs.
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Painted Canyon Overlook – A breathtaking viewpoint of the North Dakota Badlands.
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Hiking Trails – Popular trails include the Petrified Forest Loop and Caprock Coulee Trail.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer the best weather, with fewer crowds and active wildlife.
7. Black Hills National Forest
Why Visit Black Hills National Forest?
Encompassing over 1.2 million acres, Black Hills National Forest surrounds Mount Rushmore and provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Top Attractions and Activities
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Harney Peak (Black Elk Peak) – A challenging hike with panoramic views.
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Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway – A beautiful drive with waterfalls and towering cliffs.
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Roughlock Falls – A stunning waterfall located in Spearfish Canyon.
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Off-Roading & Camping – Popular for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is great for hiking and camping, while fall brings beautiful autumn colors.
Mount Rushmore is a must-visit destination, but the surrounding area offers even more natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife watching, cave exploration, or scenic drives, the best national parks near Mount Rushmore provide something for everyone.
From the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park to the underground marvels of Wind Cave and Jewel Cave, there’s no shortage of stunning places to explore. If you’re planning a trip to Mount Rushmore, be sure to add some of these amazing national parks and monuments to your itinerary for an unforgettable adventure in the Black Hills and beyond.