HITTING THE ROAD FOR THE FIRST TIME

June 1, 2011…Heading home with Shasta

We got a fairly early start, taking Interstate 90 out of Detroit which eventually skirts the southern end of Lake Michigan and runs up through Chicago. After passing through Chicago we stayed on Route 90, which would take us through Wisconsin and on to South Dakota, where some of our sight seeing was to begin.

Our first nights camping was at a commercial campground, somewhere in Wisconsin, whose details we have long forgotten. However, I do remember it was a pleasant first night RVing!

First night camping in our RV in Wisconsin

June 2, 2011…On to South Dakota

The next day we were off for South Dakota. We made it as far as Mitchell where we stopped and camped for the night. We drove around a bit and found the Mitchell Corn Palace.

The Mitchell Corn Palace is a unique and iconic landmark that serves as a tribute to the agricultural heritage of the region. Often referred to as the “World’s Only Corn Palace,” it is a multi-purpose facility that functions as a venue for concerts, sports events, exhibitions, and community gatherings. What makes the Corn Palace truly distinctive is its exterior and interior decorations, which are made entirely from corn and other grains.

Corn Palace, Mitchell, SD

We had a nice campsite at Lake Mitchell Campground a city campground and park. The only downside was really bad black flies. Interestingly enough, this was Linda’s first experience with these tiny carnivorous bastards and she was ; “WTF, these are bad!!

Lake Mitchell Campground – our 2nd night.

June 3, 2011…Crossing the Mighty Missouri River

We left Mitchell, passing through Chamberlain, SD on our way to the Badlands National Park. We stopped at Al’s Oasis to have a look around and checked out the weird bridge with goats on it nearby. After that we pulled into the Chamberlain SD Rest Area facility which has stunning views overlooking the mighty Missouri River and the rolling hills of South Dakota. It’s a great spot for photos and taking in the natural beauty of the area.

Goat Bridge, Chamberlain,

Also located here is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: Located adjacent to the rest area, this center offers exhibits and information about the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition, which passed through this region in the early 1800s.