Summary
The memorial features the heads of four American Presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt – carved into the granite mountain.
There are many good reasons to visit Mount Rushmore, including its historical significance, stunning views, and unique artwork. Visitors can take guided tours, watch a film about the history and construction of the memorial, and explore the hiking trails and exhibits.
Specific points of interest to see at Mount Rushmore include the Avenue of Flags, a display of the flags of all 50 states, and the Sculptor's Studio, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the memorial. There is also the Presidential Trail, a half-mile walk that provides up-close views of the sculpture.
Interesting facts about Mount Rushmore National Memorial include that it was completed in 1941 after 14 years of construction, and that it attracts over 2 million visitors each year. The faces of the presidents are 60 feet tall and were carved by a team of workers using dynamite and jackhammers.
The best time of year to visit Mount Rushmore is between May and September when the weather is mild and the park has extended hours. During the winter months, some areas may be closed due to snow and ice.
Overall, Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a must-see destination for those interested in American history and natural beauty.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Grizzly Creek - USFS
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Grizzly Bear Campground
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Grizzly Bear
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Wrinkled Rock
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Grizzly Creek Primitive
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Horsethief Lake
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Lakota Lake
Bismark Lake
Sheridan Lake Complex