Petrified Forest of the Black Hills-Elk Creek Resort — Hotel in Summerset

Was an informational movie about south Dakota's unique mountainous region, explaining why it's home to so many unique fossilized finds and petrified wood. Then a walk through a mini-natural science museum then topled off with a self-guided walk though the petrified Forrest. On the walk was many whole trees and massive logs and stumps all turned to stone. Pretty amazing. At the end you can buy petrified wood, dinosaur bones and fossils at the Rock shop. An inexpensive and educational fun time...

This was a cool little place. Inexpensive and worth the short drive from Rapid City. The museum itself was a bit dated but the self-guided forest tour was interesting with nice views & the owner was extremely friendly & knowledgeable. Our 6 and 3 year old enjoyed walking through the woods & seeing the wild turkeys & rabbits. The rock shop at the end offered some...

Way back. I took a trip more than 20 years ago to the badlands forest. The difference now is, this area feels more legit, more connected with the past. Is was self guided, self planned. Self paced. And was self rewarding. (Watch the video). If you're "city" you may think this to be BS (not worth anything, or crying over some stupid stuff) if you like adventure and...