yellowstone to mt rushmore

I agree that staying in the mountains is great. If you don't mind boondocking, there is an old gravel pit at gps coordinates 44.807679, 107.55364 that has plenty of room and not many people. While staying there, during the daytime we had elk close by, while driving to camp we saw a couple of moose and during the night wolves were right outside of our camper howling at the full moon. That happened when our kids were almost teenagers and they still go back to that place hoping to hear the wolves again.

mitlin wrote:
Hi all,
This summer we are traveling the National Park loop from Fl; to Grand Canyon to Yellowstone. Wondering the best route and campgrounds from West entrance Yellowstone to Mt Rushmore? Is Hwy 14 doable for a 30 ft TT? Thanks, Mitlin

we live at the base of the Bighorn Mountains. Hwy 14 is very doable for a 30' TT. There are a few switchbacks but the road has quite a few scenic turnouts to take in the view, rest or give the truck a break.

Every time and I mean every time we've been up there (when there hasn't been snow) we've seen moose. A lot of times we will also see hundreds of elk.

If you decide to take Hwy 14 or 14A be sure to stop by our brick & mortar store (This Joyful Home) in Ranchester and we will show you the locations where we see moose & answer any other questions you might have.

my personal suggestion would be to try and spend a night on the mountain. Very friendly boondocking or since your new & traveling I'd probably reserve a night at Sibley Campground (its next to Sibley Lake & some sites have 30 amp). Or Prune Creek Campground. Both are right off the highway and have larger sites to get in & out of. We have seen cow calves and bull moose in both locations. Last summer we were fishing at Sibley Lake when a young bull moose jumped in the lake next to us and splashed around. kids loved watching him play around in the water!

A few years ago I went 14 east and 16 west. While maybe 16 was "easier" I was glad to do both. Not a big deal really.

But you will miss the Grand Tetons which is some of the best views in the lower 48. You should plan to spend a day or so at GT.

Want Tim make it amazing/interesting? Leave the park through Red Lodge MT!

I did it! It's not for he faint of heart, but beautiful views!

Read some of the previous posts on hwy 14 and 14A through the Bighorn Mountains. I have gone over 14A both ways while towing and really enjoy it. Many people think it is too difficult for the equipment and the nerves. 14 is easier but 16 to the south is the easiest.
Check for previous posts on this subject because it has been discussed extensively.

I think Mountain Directory West should be a good resource for travel in those areas. We always avoid any highway that is labeled `Scenic' when towing.

Campgrounds are what you get when you reserve now in Yellowstone. You’ll probably be on a waiting list.

Yes, you should be able to do it easily!
Stop off in Cody, WY on your way east.
Don't forget to go by Devils Tower!