I used to work at mount rushmore and lived in the area for four months (2002) 4th of july is the busiest time of year. make your reservations ASAP. Regarding the fireworks, get your spot early, and by early afternoon is a good time. the street leading up to the mountain gets parked on both sides with cars trying to get in. get up there early and park or leave your car at the hotel if your staying in keystone and walk up, its not that far of a walk, sometimes theres a shuttle. the food at the buffalo dining room (the name of the restaurant) i worked at and the food is decent and decently priced. go eat breakfast there in the morning, its not real busy and its just awesome view of the heads. go to these places when you are there. staying in rapid city isnt that bad, its only a 30min ride up. more hotels and things to do.

-devils tower
-custer state park -- bring some carrots to feed the donkeys
-crazy horse ---but dont pay the money for the "tour" just ask to take pictures in the parking lot. the tour isnt worth it you cant get any closer.
-go to a chuckwagon supper, circle t, is one of them. fun times
-if your kids like dinosaurs, in rapid city there is a big hill with some big dino's on top, its a fun time.
-go to the mystery spot if you havent been to one.
-corn palace in mitchell, sd and wall drug -- a must stop.
ill try to think of more, pm me if you have questions.

grb

thought of more

horsethief lake is about 5 miles behind mt rushmore, they have a spot to park. we always went there after work to swim and jump off the rocks. its free and lets you cool off.
-pactola lake, a manmade lake is about 20 or so mins outside keystone. they have a beach. you can fish and swim. its on the way out to deadwood which is a fun place to go. i suggest taking the bus tour, it brings you too wild bills grave and shows you around deadwood. they might have more in terms of tours now that deadwood on HBO is so popular.
-- get your gas at walmart when you are in rapid city, get a gift certificate and use it at the pump you save 3cents or buy it at sams if you have a card you save more. FILL UP BEFORE leaving rapid city. you'll be glad you did.

or you could just take me along, posting this makes me remember good times.