We camped at one of the more rustic campgrounds in the area (can't remember the name, but it was one of the National Forest campgrounds and down this nearly impassable road). We did some nice hikes in the area of Wind Cave and saw the Crazy Horse monument being built. The best thing we saw was the drive along Peter Norbeck highway...there's a lookout point at the top where you can see Rushmore in the distance. To be honest, the coolest part about the whole experience was soaking in the local, mmm, culture: lots of wide-open spaces and miner-shacks-turned-saloons there. It hasn't changed much since the Deadwood days.

Crazy Horse monument, Custer State Park. The Badlands are not too far away, either.

Along with the highlights like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the scenic Needles Highway, I think the town of Spearfish is worth a visit. There's some excellent mountain biking along the rugged Tinton Trail, best followed by a brew and view of the setting sun on the outdoor deck at Crow Peak Brewing Co. Loads of other great area hiking trails, including lovely views of Harney Peak and the Black Hills from Little Devils Tower in Custer State Park. Or try the ever-popular three-mile Sunday Gulch Trail behind Sylvan Lake Dam. Moonshine Gulch Saloon near Rochford is a popular locals' hangout for burgers and beer! Best spot for a swim? Either Sylvan Lake or the 40-foot-wide pool beneath Big Falls along Battle Creek -- aka, Hippie Hole -- which is a half-hour hike off of highway 40 between Keystone and Hermosa. Enjoy!