National Monument Weekend - Devil's Tower and Mt. Rushmore

This weekend we decided to do some heavy driving and see a couple of our nation's monuments while the weather was still warm enough for camping. Brad mapped out our course old-school style and we used a paper map the entire way (which is good, because where we tend to wander, cell service ceases to exist)

We began the adventure in Northeastern Wyoming at Devil's Tower. This strange fluke of nature is America's First National Monument, and although it is the smallest national park I've ever seen, it was worth the travel! Besides, the federal government apparently hates dogs and they are not allowed on any trails in any National Park so we were rather restricted in our exploring :/

Right around sunset the thunderstorms starting rolling in, and although most of the rain missed us, watching the lightening light up the tower and quiet down the campground was blissful. 

Sleeping in the campground... was more laying around then sleeping unfortunately but it did serve as a good reminder as to why we prefer back country camping. There was a crying baby that brought all new meaning to the term "cry it out" and an alarm clock that went off for several minutes without anyone shutting it off. Once people starting waking up and loudly announcing their plans to their families and those in nearby counties, we had good motivation to get up and get going onto the next spot.... Mt Rushmore!!

It was my first time in South Dakota, and that alone was quite satisfying. I had refused to have high hopes for Mount Rushmore after my disappointment with the size and splendor of The Alamo in San Antonio. I was right to not have expectations, but Mount Rushmore was actually extraordinary! We didn't stay long as we weren't allowed to travel anywhere with the dogs (Note to US government - they really aren't a national threat and I promise to pick up their mess!), but I am glad we went. 

We spent the rest of the day wandering the Black Hills through dirt and gravel roads until we found the perfect camping spot away from other human beings and any sense of civilization. We heard a rather large pack of Coyotes announce their kill in the middle of the night, and though startling, there are few sounds I love more than a howl from a Coyote. The eerie cackling went until I fell back asleep. The sound of thunder and rain on the tent woke us up again, but I just rolled over to thank Brad for deciding to put the rain flap on and enjoyed nature in all it's wonder. 

It was another amazing weekend with the ones I hold dear, taking in the wonders that are scattered throughout this great country of ours.