[A/S] re: Camping in National Parks

["bmcclellan@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx" <bmcclellan@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Late last May, we took our 27' International to Yellowstone and Grand
Tetons.  In Yellowstone, you can stay in the park at Fishing Bridge RV
campground.  We were definitely one of the smallest units in the park. 
This gave great access to most of the park - from the east.  Sites are
pretty close, side by side.  Not the most attractive campground we've
ever stayed in, but Yellowstone is SO large, we spent most of our time
away from the site anyway.

I would also highly recommend Flagg Ranch which is located on the John D
Rockeller National Parkway between Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. 
Although this isn't in either park, it would provide great access to
both areas.  A bonus was that we could have campfires.  (If you're into
campfires, check carefully with National Parks - many don't allow
them).  The sites were very large and nicely wooded.  It's also a ranch
if you're interested in horseback riding.  Rig size was no issue.

You didn't mention what route you'd be taking, but if you happen to go
the northern route, make sure you stop at Teddy Roosevelt National
Park.  There are wonderful pull through sites with alot of trees and
privacy.  We pulled in with trailer and Suburban and didn't even bother
to unhook.  Lots of room.  We stayed at the southern unit.  One of the
campgrounds was closed and as we were walking our Newfoundland through
it, we came almost face to face with a buffalo grazing.  This park is
hardly used but has a great driving trail through a smaller version of
badlands than those in S Dakota.

The campground in Badlands National Park didn't look appealing at all. 
Very exposed, no trees.  We stayed at the KOA south of the park.  More
trees, very large sites.  The park shouldn't be missed though.

No national campground at Devil's Tower, but a KOA right outside the
entrance.  Again, we were there before school was out so it was empty.

If you're going by Mt. Rushmore, try Rafter J Bar Ranch.  It's one of
the favorite campgrounds, but we ended up in one of the tightest
parking spots we've ever been in between trees.  A beautiful site. 
While you're there, you should visit my favorite state park in the US -
Custer State Park.  Do the Needles drive and then the wildlife drive. 
We looked at campgrounds in the state park and they all looked too
small for our rig - probably yours too.

Have fun!

Betty
27' International
'99 Suburban 2500
Hensley