The Black Hills, Quite Possibly the most Family-Friendly Destination

A Family Friendly Destination Means Less Planning

The Badlands National Park in South Dakota is a stunning piece of land that, at times, is overlooked but cannot be missed. The Badlands sprawl over 244,000 acres and are known for their unique geography created by millions of years of erosion. As a result, quiet, eerily beautiful shapes, peaks, and terribly beautiful spires adorn the park. 

There are plenty of opportunities to explore the Badlands on foot through nature trails or off-trail hiking, as well as dirt-bike and four-wheel drive routes. Visitors can also take advantage of the Badlands' abundance of wildlife by bird watching or Night Sky Viewing under the stars. Bison, Antelope, Bighorn Sheep, and Prairie Dogs are just a few critters that roam this area.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is within 30 minutes of Rapid City, South Dakota. Created to draw tourism to the area, it continues to do the job almost 100 years later. But, while Mount Rushmore (The Six Grandfathers) tends to be first on your mind, there is much more.

The Black Hills of South Dakota is a fantastic area that should be experienced by any nature enthusiast and history buff alike. Places like the Black Hills National Forest and Spearfish Canyon wow visitors with granite peaks, crystal clear waterfalls, and plenty of opportunities for exploration and discovery. Buffalo Gap National Grasslands is a haven for fossil and rock hounds; we can hardly help ourselves.

Wind Cave National Park is located just south of Custer State Park, one of the best places in the world to observe wild North American Bison. Just a short distance from Rapid City is our first National Monument, Devil's Tower (Bear Lodge), the wild west town of Deadwood, and more.

Culture abounds and is a relatively unexplored region in Pine Ridge Reservation, home to the mighty Oglala Lakota. Here you can meet with local artists, learn about Lakota Heritage, view significant artifacts, and better understand Native American life, both past and present.

Traveling with little ones? No place is better than the Black Hills. In addition to the wildlife, outdoor recreation, and areas of wonder, we have Reptile Gardens, Bear Country U.S.A, gold panning, Zip Lining, Wall Drug, the 1880 Train, Rushmore Tramway, Jewel Cave, the South Dakota Air and Space Museum, and the Mammoth Site in the Southern Black Hills.

The Black Hills and Badlands are practically bursting with attractions, making it easy for all kinds to visit and explore. Have you had us on your bucket list? We want to show you why it deserves your attention and time.

My XO Adventures can create a vacation package covering all the bases. From private pickups, tours, hotel arrangements, lunches, dinners, and ideas, we are here for you. Choosing the Black Hills and Badlands takes the stress and complication of vacation planning away. It's easy, fun, and extraordinary. I guarantee it. Come out and get a warm welcome. Smiles are plentiful, and the weather is fine.

Daniel Milks

Owner/Operator of My XO Adventures, Traveler, Writer.