This South Dakota Campground Is Like Stepping Onto the Set of National Treasure: Book of Secrets

While I’m a major outdoors girl, I still like to rest my head on a comfortable bed and enjoy a shower after a long day on the trails. That’s where Under Canvas Mount Rushmore comes in. It's just a ten-minute drive from Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and you’ll be spoiled with everything from organic bath products to West Elm furnishings at this luxury campground in South Dakota.

Scenes from National Treasure: Book of Secrets were filmed just minutes away from the Under Canvas Mount Rushmore property. As you sip your coffee on your private patio, you’ll have visions of Nicolas Cage and Helen Mirren jumping across the rocks at Sylvan Lake or running from their nemesis along the trail under George Washington’s giant granite nose. You, too, may be inspired to start hunting for our nation’s secret treasures.

The Under Canvas brand began in 2009 and has since expanded to 13 locations. There are nine luxury tent types available at Under Canvas Mount Rushmore, including a few options that are designed with family sleeping arrangements in mind. Campers can choose between tents with private, en suite (en tent?) bathrooms or shared (yet still luxury) bathhouses. I particularly like the Stargazer tents because they come with a night sky viewing window directly above the bed. This means you can quite literally flutter your eyes closed while watching for shooting stars from under a warm blanket.

All of the tents are designed with luxury bedding and elevated decor. At times, you may even forget you're sleeping in a tent. Another standout element of this campground is its amenities. The onsite restaurant offers views of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, as well as wine and local craft beers.

Breakfast is served every morning, and you can top off your evening with nightly s'mores around the campfire. If you're itching for a snack, grab-and-go options are available at the camp store. Camp hosts provide daily programming that includes activities like morning yoga, live music, kids' activities, and more. Be sure to explore the nature walk around the resort.

Under Canvas Mount Rushmore is far from your typical camping experience. Its elevated design and amenities turn sleeping outside into a luxury adventure. It's truly great for all ages. I even gifted my older parents a stay here, and they loved it.

As mentioned, the campground is perfectly situated for visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial. I particularly suggest going back to the memorial at night for the lighting ceremony. However, you'll also be centrally located to hit other Black Hills favorites like Rushmore Tramway Adventures in Keystone, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. 

Whether you're a National Treasure nerd like me, a first-time camper, or just looking for something new, Under Canvas Mount Rushmore is a campground in South Dakota that delivers a one-of-a-kind experience. With all the iconic sights surrounding you, it won't take much to feel like you're on set with some of your favorite actors. What other places in South Dakota feel like a movie? Let us know by filling out our nomination form.