The Black Hills of South Dakota pack a bundle of must-see destinations in a small area. Starting from Custer, you’re within striking distance sites like the battlefield where Custer made his last stand, the mountain that’s an homage to famous U.S. presidents, and another mountain that’s being carved in remembrance of a very famous Native American.

1. Custer

Starting Point • History, Nature, Outdoor Recreation

The town of Custer lies the center in South Dakota’s Black Hills National Forest and is the perfect hub for your RV travels to important American destinations. Visit them all in one great American Road Trip: Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Devils Tower, Black Hills, Badlands and more. Nearby, Custer State Park entertains motorists with majestic bison and burros begging for food.

2. Hill City

Drive 14 miles, 19 minutes • History, Outdoor Recreation

For a little town in the geographic center of the Black Hills, there’s plenty to do in Hill City. Originally a mining center, Hill City today is a handy stop when you’re visiting Mount Rushmore. Ride the fully restored 1880 train and go spelunking in nearby Wind Cave.

Rafter J Bar Ranch Camping Resort • Hill City, SD – (605)574-2527

3. Rapid City

Drive 27.1 miles, 35 minutes • Entertainment, History, Shopping

Rapid City’s exactly between the Black Hills and the Badlands. It’s big enough to give you all the goods and services an RVer may need; small enough to have small town charm and plenty of local color. Stroll Rapid City’s historic central district, shop ‘til you drop, and check out life-sized bronze statues of America’s presidents. Don’t miss Dinosaur Park for fun, life-size dino replicas.

Rushmore Shadows Resort • Rapid City, SD – (800)231-0425

4. Sturgis

Drive 28.5 miles, 30 minutes • Entertainment, Food, Quirky

Sturgis is nicknamed the “City of Riders.” Since 1938, it’s been the home of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the world’s largest and wildest bike rally, held each August. Mingle among thousands of bikes, bikers and bikers’ ladies. Grab some street food, boogie to rock bands, enter a beard and mustache contest or win a tattoo contest. Sure, there are “normal” shops restaurants, too.

5. Spearfish

Drive 21.7 miles, 23 minutes • Entertainment, Outdoor Recreation, Shopping

Sightseeing is king here. The road to the town winds between Spearfish Canyon’s 1,000-foot tall cliffs. Roughlock Falls is where “Dances With Wolves” was shot, and Spearfish Creek is prime fly fishing territory — tubing, too. And the town of Spearfish has neat little shops, boutiques and fantastic restaurants.