Badlands, May 14-15

We left the campground in Wall, waved howdy to the Wall Drug complex, and headed for the Badlands.  We remembered it as being dry, rocky canyons with colorful stratified rock formations.  On our last visit, color seemed amplified by sunset conditions Also recall warnings about rattlesnakes.

Today as we entered Badlands National Park, there were postings of plague amongst prairie dogs.

Some of the park is grassland suitable for spring grazing. There is about 15" rain a year, May being the rainy month

Lots of  buffalo.  A single one here.

Prairie dog metropolis

the lookout

pups

We saw bighorns twice. 

Bighorns with Badland features in background.  Springtime green makes the area below resemble a golf course

Driving down into the Badands, you see why we decided to return.

rock strata colors contrast

view from passenger side window

Just more passenger side view.  Last time we were here we stopped and photographed up close

lots of sharp stuff

Butte right of center on horizon is 30 mi away

Later you can see same butte (horizon center)

few trees except these

goodby badlands

We camped that evening at the Rapid City KOA.  Rapid City area is home to Mount Rushmore and Black Hills. We have seen Rushmore .  We drove through Custer State Park.  Sylvan Lake where National Treasure was filmed is nearby, but we have already seen the Lake (and Movie).  Camped at Beaver Lake campground near Custer SD.  The campground is scenic and has full service.  Cell connection is sketchy