thanks everyone for your great insight. We've now added a few more things on our list of things to do. Really had not planned on Custer State Park, but will definitely do that now.

We are very unpleasantly surprised that airfares from southern CA to RAP is (for now) at $500. Is it always that bad? I could get to Europe for that price!! Then, we are pricing car rentals and so far have been getting $300+ a week. I've held one but will, of course, continue checking weekly.

As for lodging, I found the Slate Rock Ranch (they only have like 4 cabins) and was quoted a extremely reasonable price of $120 a night for a 3 bedroom but 1 bath cabin. Has anyone had any experience with the place? The lady on the phone sounds very friendly, helpful, etc....etc. But the couple we're with really wanted to see the inside of the cabin to make sure it's not a dump. The outside looks decent and we like that it has trees and lots of land near by, and of course the price is great as compared to even a Best Western and over $100 a night. I definitely will try to call the "reservations manager" at the Hilton that we plan to stay at. It's worth a try.

Keep the tips coming!