Devils Tower National Monument offers so many perspectives.
It’s America’s first national monument established in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt. There are many theories about how the tower was created. Most believe it was formed 65 million years ago as volcanic magma and lava cooled. You can learn more about the history of the tower and how the columns formed at the National Park Service site. Other resources listed below.
Traveling from the Twin Cities, Devils Tower is approximately 680 miles. It’s a perfect stop as you drive west or a short distance for a fun family vacation. The KOA is located at the base of the tower. They offer a full-service restaurant, a huge gift shop with lots of sweet treats, a heated outdoor pool, and hayrides. There is an outdoor nightly viewing of Close Encounters of the Third Kind (which was filmed at the site).
The campground is located on the Belle Fourche River surrounded by the beautiful Black Hills of Wyoming. We stayed in one of the camper cabins right on the river.
Devils Tower KOA also offers tent sites, RV sites and a park model cabin that sleeps 6.
The sites are spacious so even though we were there during Sturgis, we felt like we had our own space. They have nice picnic tables and firepits located next to each cabin. The shower houses were clean and convenient. There are laundry facilities and free WiFi if needed.
There is so much to do including hiking, climbing and wildlife viewing. We were fortunate to see whitetail deer roaming through the campground.
The Devils Tower Trading Post is across the street from the campground. They offer tons of souvenirs, an old fashioned ice cream parlor, and an awesome deck to view the tower.
Make sure to catch the tower at sunrise, it changes to a beautiful golden color.
In the same year that Theodore Roosevelt established Devils Tower, he authorized the Antiquities Act, giving the President the power to designate national monuments. I’m so thankful for his vision of protecting our nation’s land and history.
Our National Parks need our support and advocacy. Every little bit counts! I got this shirt from Parks Project. Visit their site to shop or for volunteer opportunities.
©Tracy Blowers
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