Keystone, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is just 2 miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial. With a population of just 500, this small town transformed itself from a sleepy mining community to a bustling tourist hub. In addition to Mount Rushmore, Keystone is close to the Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park, and is surrounded by the Black Hills National Forest. These attractions give the area not only historical significance, but also provide outdoor enthusiasts with myriad camping, hiking and sporting opportunities.
Private Campgrounds
Two private campgrounds offer RV and tent camping in Keystone. The Spokane Creek Resort features large, level sites with shade trees; the Spokane Creek runs through the campground. Kemp's Kamp, located in Battle Creek Canyon, is surrounded by towering Ponderosa pines. Heated swimming pools at both let you get your exercise, and Kemp's has a miniature golf course for family fun. On-site showers and laundry facilities let you stay close to camp.
Forest Camping
Dispersed camping, or camping in a remote area without facilities, is allowed in the Black Hills National Forest. The Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead is the spot closest to Keystone for dispersed camping on the forest. Parking is limited; no large trucks or recreational vehicles can park at the trailhead, but a restroom is available at the trailhead parking lot. The Grizzly Bear Campground, with 20 sites, is a mile southeast of Mount Rushmore.
Restrictions and Concerns
Open fires are prohibited on the Black Hills National Forest unless they are built in designated campground fire-rings. Stove fires are allowed, so if you're in a dispersed camp, you can use a propane stove for cooking. Campers must pack in and out everything they need, and tents should be pitched so they are not visible from the hiking trail. Ticks are common; when hiking, wear light colored, long-sleeve shirts and full-length pants and check yourself when you get back to camp.
Recreational Activities
Keystone has dozens of recreational opportunities for campers to enjoy. The Black Hills area boasts 11 reservoirs and 1,300 miles of streams for fishing; 13,000 acres of wilderness in which to quietly contemplate nature; and over 350 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails in the national forest. Rock and mountain climbing are allowed; just be sure to limit your impact on the ecosystem. Horseback riding is popular with two remote campgrounds set up so that your horse can camp, too.
Eating Local
At the Ruby House Restaurant you can order buffalo served as sirloin tips, stew, steaks, burgers or on an open-faced sandwich.This local meat is raised and grazed on natural grasses and is leaner and has less cholesterol than beef from cows. Fresh trout from the local rivers is served along with a selection of traditional American and vegetarian entrees. Visitors to Mount Rushmore can dine at the Carvers Cafe food-court, which always has vegetarian items on the menu.
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