In a past life, I guided thousands of visitors a year on the best way to explore Rapid City and the Black Hills. When I started Adventuresome Photo Co., I knew I wanted to continue to help visitors have family-friendly adventures in the Black Hills.

1. Meet the locals in Custer State Park

When cabin fever has set in, we love to drive through Custer State Park along the wildlife loop. In the spring, sweet baby bison, affectionately called “cinnamons” are born. But any time of year, you’re bound to find the begging burros who will boldly stick their heads in your car in hopes of treats.

2. Wear out little legs with a hike

There are tons of family-friendly trails for hikers of all abilities in the Black Hills. We love to make a quick loop around Sylvan Lake or to hike the miles of in-town trails here in Rapid City. Not sure where to go? Check out this piece I penned for Travel South Dakota.

3. History and acres to roam at the Air and Space Museum (FREE!)

Anytime we find ourselves near the Air and Space Museum, we oblige. Hank loves to roam the grounds and explore each plane. Best of all, it’s free!

4. Spend a morning at Storybook Island

We usually elect to spend a morning before it gets too warm and before afternoon thunderstorms have a chance to threaten our outdoor fun. There are acres of playsets, entry is free, and the train and carousel are cheap fun. You can pack snacks, but the concessions are great too.

5. Have an adventuresome photo session with me!

There is nothing I love more than sharing the wild places in the Black Hills and Badlands with families. I make photo sessions fun and engaging, using lots of prompts and games. Instead of stiff family pictures, we’re playing and exploring, and hopefully cultivating a love for nature while we’re at it.

If you’d like an incredible souvenir while traveling in the Black Hills, drop me a line!