Custer State Park, located at 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730, is a breathtaking destination in the heart of South Dakota’s Black Hills. Spanning over 71,000 acres, this majestic park is home to an abundance of wildlife, scenic vistas, and rich history. For more information, click here.

Custer State Park has a storied past, dating back to 1919 when it was established as a state park. The park’s namesake, George Armstrong Custer, was a prominent figure in American history, leading the 7th Cavalry Regiment into the Battle of Little Bighorn. Today, the park honors his legacy while showcasing the natural beauty of the Black Hills.

The park’s crown jewel is its wildlife, with a diverse range of species calling Custer State Park home. The most iconic residents are the free-roaming bison, with over 1,300 animals grazing in the park’s meadows. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the Wildlife Loop Road, offering up-close encounters with these majestic creatures. Other wildlife inhabitants include elk, deer, mountain goats, and prairie dogs.

Custer State Park offers a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. The park’s visitor center provides insight into the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can explore over 70 miles of trails, including the renowned Harney Peak Trail, which leads to the highest point in the Black Hills. Other activities include camping, fishing, horseback riding, and scenic drives.

Points of interest within the park include the State Game Lodge, a historic lodge built in 1920, and the Badger Hole, a unique rock formation. Visitors can also explore the park’s many scenic overlooks, including the Mount Rushmore viewpoint, offering a stunning perspective on the iconic presidential monument.

Custer State Park is open year-round, with peak season running from May to October. Admission fees vary depending on the season, with daily passes starting at $20 per vehicle. Camping reservations can be made through the park’s website, with options ranging from backcountry sites to RV-friendly campsites.

In conclusion, Custer State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. With its rich history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, this park offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply taking in the views, Custer State Park is a true gem of the American West.

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Chimney Rock National Historic Site, located at 9822 County Road 75 and Highway 92, in Bayard, Nebraska, is a revered landmark and iconic symbol of the American West. This towering rock formation, rising 325 feet above the surrounding prairie, played a significant role in the country’s westward expansion and has captivated the imagination of travelers for centuries. For more information, click here.

Chimney Rock was a crucial navigational aid for pioneers, fur traders, and Native American tribes, who relied on its visibility from a distance to guide them through the treacherous terrain. The site’s history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human presence dating to the Paleoindian period. In the 19th century, Chimney Rock became a prominent landmark along the Oregon Trail, with thousands of settlers passing by the site on their journey westward.

Today, visitors to Chimney Rock National Historic Site can experience the rich history and natural beauty of the area. Amenities include a visitor center, museum, and gift shop, where guests can learn about the site’s history and geology. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Ranger-led programs and guided tours are available during the summer months, offering insight into the site’s significance and history.

Points of interest at Chimney Rock include the iconic rock formation itself, as well as the adjacent Ethel and Christopher J. Abbot Visitor Center, which features interactive exhibits and artifacts. The site also includes a reconstructed pioneer cabin and a portion of the original Oregon Trail. Visitors can explore the nearby prairie, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and take in the stunning vistas from the top of Chimney Rock.

Chimney Rock National Historic Site is open year-round, except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours of operation vary by season, with the park opening at 8 am and closing at 6 pm from May to October, and 8 am to 4:30 pm from November to April. Admission is free, although some activities and programs may require a fee.

In conclusion, Chimney Rock National Historic Site is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history, natural beauty, and the pioneering spirit. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and diverse amenities, this park offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique experience, Chimney Rock National Historic Site is a treasure worth exploring.

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Scotts Bluff National Monument, located at 190276 Highway 92, Gering, NE 69341, is a historic landmark and natural wonder in western Nebraska. This iconic monument commemorates the Oregon Trail and the pioneers who traversed it, as well as the significant geological formation that guided them. For more information on this beautiful park, click here.

The monument’s centerpiece is the towering Scotts Bluff, a 3,000-foot-tall rock formation that rises abruptly from the surrounding prairie. This natural wonder was a crucial landmark for pioneers, fur traders, and Native American tribes, who relied on its visibility from a distance to navigate the treacherous terrain. Today, visitors can hike to the top of Scotts Bluff via the Saddle Rock Trail, a 1.6-mile round-trip journey that offers breathtaking views of the North Platte River Valley.

In addition to Scotts Bluff, the monument encompasses several other points of interest, including the Oregon Trail Museum, which showcases the history of the trail and its travelers. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a collection of historic photographs. Visitors can also explore the nearby Remnant Trail, a short hike that takes them through a preserved section of the original Oregon Trail.

Amenities at Scotts Bluff National Monument include a visitor center, picnic areas, restrooms, and a gift shop. The park offers ranger-led programs and guided tours during the summer months, as well as special events and reenactments throughout the year. Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s scenic driving route, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Scotts Bluff National Monument is open year-round, except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours of operation vary by season, with the park opening at 8 am and closing at 6 pm from May to October, and 8 am to 4:30 pm from November to April. Admission is free, although some activities and programs may require a fee.

In conclusion, Scotts Bluff National Monument is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and diverse amenities, this park offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique experience, Scotts Bluff National Monument is a treasure worth exploring.

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Raging Waves Waterpark in Yorkville

Raging Waves Water-park is the largest water-park in Illinois and one of the largest in the entire Midwest! Raging Waves is located at 4000 N. Bridge St. in Yorkville, Illinois. For more information, you can visit their website by clicking here. Raging Waves Water-park sprawls over 58 acres with 32 water-slides, 43 private cabanas, with a total of 11 dining options! There is also a 1/4 mile lazy river, and a 350,000 gallon wave pool. Highlights of the water-park include: The Aussie Mat Dash, This six-lane RallyRACER is just 1 of 3 of its kind in the WORLD! PJ’s Plummet is another popular attraction within the park. On this extreme slide you can hit speeds of 43 mph during descent, as you come to a splashing stop at ground level. If your family loves summer days in the sun, Raging Waves Water-park is the place for you! With 32 water-slides, 43 cabanas and an epic lazy river, your sure to make memories that last a lifetime!

Hurricane Harbor in Rockford

Hurricane Harbor located in Rockford Illinois, is a place the whole family can enjoy.  For the thrill seekers in your group there are plenty of water slides and dump buckets, while those just looking to relax can enjoy the beautiful lazy river. One of the more popular attractions at Magic Waters is the 707,000 gallon wave pool, known as Tsunami Bay.  The waves alternate between huge ocean waves, and calm relaxing tide, to give you a perfect mixture of thrill and chill.  This lazy river is 1,200 feet in length and winds all the way around the park.  The river is lined with trees, rock formations, and even 2 waterfalls. Over the year’s Magic Waters has won more than 20 different awards, and is currently rated the #4 publicly owned water-park in the country! For more information, click here.

Raging Rivers in Grafton

This amazing waterpark in Grafton Illinois is the perfect place to enjoy summer in style. Raging Rivers Waterpark is located at 100 Palisades Pkwy in Grafton, Illinois. About 40 miles from St. Louis. For more information, click here. Raging Rivers Water-Parkhas some amazing attractions! including Breaker Beach Wave Pool, a never ending Lazy River that loops around the park, there is Treehouse Harbor and the Itty Bitty Surf City for the younger guests. If you love water-slides, they have those too!  The Mississippi Monster water-slide offers the biggest thrills in the park and has three hidden chambers. This waterslide is worth the price of admission alone! Make plans now to visit Raging Rivers. This is the ultimate place for a unique getaway or a summer vacation!

Rainbow Falls In Elk Grove

Cool off at Rainbow Falls Waterpark and enjoy the excitement of this tropical paradise with a variety of attractions, special events and more waiting for the entire family. Rainbow Falls is located at 180 Lions Dr.  Elk Grove Village, Illinois. For more information, click here.

Splash Country in Aurora

Splash Country is located at 195 S. Barnes Road, in Aurora, Illinois. For more information, click here.

• Six-lane zero-depth pool with children’s play features
• Second-largest lazy river in Illinois, with 1,100 feet winding through
  dumping buckets, sprayers, jets and a bubbling rapids
• One winding, enclosed tube/flume slide
• One winding, open tube/flume slide
• Enclosed kid-friendly area with spray guns, waterfall and other
  interactive features for kids under 48 inches tall
• Two regulation sand volleyball courts
• Outside food and beverages are allowed per our
  Outside Food and Beverage Guidelines
• Sand play area with seating and shade
• Lap-lane swimming at designated times

Paradise Bay in Lombard

Collinsville Aqua Park in Collinsville

The Collinsville Aqua Park (formerly Splash City) is now under the operation of the City of Collinsville and its new Parks and Recreation Department. It’s the same great park, just new owners! The season runs Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day each year. The Collinsville Aqua Park is home to 7 slides, Monsoon Mountain, lazy river, leisure pool, lap pool and Aqua Climb Wall. At Collinsville Aqua Park you’ll never pay for parking, all our inner tubes are free, and you’ll never be charged to use any of our life jackets. The Collinsville Aqua Park is located at  10 Gateway Drive, in Collinsville, Illinois. For more information, click here.

Mystic Waters in Des Plaines

Mystic Waters is located at 2025 Miner Street in Des Plaines Illinois. For more information, click here.  This epic park is well known for its Giant Water Slides.

Regular Season: June 1–August 11:
Sunday–Thursday: 11:00a–8:00p
Friday and Saturday: 11:00a–9:00p

Dragonland Water Park

DragonLand has something for everyone, all on three-plus acres of immaculately kept park land! Dragonland is located at Mineral Springs Park 193 Red Bud Memorial Dr in Pekin, Illinois. For more information, click here.

• Fully handicapped accessible
• Zero depth, play/entry area and two water slides that twist and turn you
• Sand beach play area with water equipment and extended deck / patio with lounge chairs
• Full concession stand (Outside food & drinks are not allowed into DragonLand)
• Lockers with coin operated locks are located on the deck outside the shower facilities and are just 25¢

The Beach in Wood Dale

The Beach Waterpark in Wood Dale, Illinois, offers a diverse range of water attractions for all ages, including exhilarating water slides, relaxing lazy rivers, kiddie pools, splash zones, and play areas. The park also offers cabana rentals with added amenities and hosts seasonal events, themed nights, and special promotions . As of summer 2024, the waterpark is open for daily admission, with tickets costing $9 for individuals, $59 for individual season passes (until June 3), and free admission for children under 2 years old . The Beach Waterpark is located at 161 W. Commercial Street in Wood Dale Illinois. For more information,click here.

Barefoot Bay in Mundelein

Barefoot Bay is a six-acre, family water retreat. The aquatic center offers amenities for swimmers of all ages. Barefoot Bay Family Aquatic Center is located at 1461 N Midlothian Road in Mundelein, Illinois. For more information, click here.