Kennebec KOA Journey in South Dakota offers a quintessential camping experience. The campground sits amidst Mount Rushmore State’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled within the heart of South Dakota’s natural wonders, this campground provides a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Our stop at the Kennebec KOA Journey in South Dakota was a one-night stop on the way to Yellowstone National Park. We spent the previous two nights in Waterloo, Iowa, and would spend the next two nights at the Badlands National Park.
We arrived in the early afternoon after traveling for around 8 hours and covering almost 500 miles. When people tell you they stayed in the middle of nowhere, this is what they mean. The population of Kennebec, S.D., at the time, was 240. In addition, the town is surrounded by farmland as far as the eye can see. In our opinion, it is a great place to jump off I-90 for an overnight stay.
It’s wise to make reservations to ensure you have a spot at the campground, especially if you have specific site preferences. This can easily be done on the Kennebec KOA website.
Kennebec KOA Journey Location
Conveniently located near iconic attractions such as Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park, Kennebec KOA Journey is an ideal base camp for exploring the best of South Dakota’s treasures. Whether you’re marveling at past presidents’ carved faces, traversing the Badlands’ rugged terrain, or encountering bison herds in their natural habitat, adventure awaits just beyond the campground’s doorstep. If possible, try to arrive at the campground during daylight hours. This will make finding your campsite easier and getting settled in before nightfall.
The KOA is easily located off I-90 at exit 235. The campground is a quick 2 miles from the highway.
Amenities
At Kennebec KOA Journey, guests can choose from various accommodations to suit their camping preferences. Whether you prefer traditional tent camping, RV sites with full hookups, or cozy cabins with modern amenities, there’s something for everyone. Relaxation is key at this campground, where you can unwind by the campfire, take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, or challenge friends to a game of mini-golf.
- 50 Max Amp
- 120′ Max Length
- Wi-Fi
- Pool (5/29 – 9/4)
- Snack Bar
- Firewood
- Pavilion
- Bike Rentals
- KampK9
- Laundry Facilities
Things to Do While Visiting the Kennebec KOA Journey
Take advantage of the campground’s proximity to nearby attractions. South Dakota offers numerous natural wonders, historic sites, and outdoor activities. Research local attractions and plan day trips or excursions during your stay.
Of course, this KOA is along the main route towards Mount Rushmore and Yellowstone. Located approximately three hours west of the campground is Devils Tower National Monument.
South Dakota Discovery Center
The South Dakota Discovery Center is about an hour away from the campground. The Discovery Center is a dynamic educational institution in the heart of Pierre, South Dakota. Founded to inspire curiosity and foster a love for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), this center offers a myriad of hands-on experiences and interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.
Akta Lakota (Sioux) Indian Museum
Stepping into the Akta Lakota Museum is like entering a portal to another time and place, where the rich tapestry of Lakota culture comes to life through exhibits, artifacts, and artwork. Visitors are greeted with a warm welcome and invited to explore the museum’s extensive collection, spanning centuries of Lakota history and craftsmanship.
One of the museum’s most striking features is its collection of Native American art, including traditional beadwork, quillwork, and ledger art. These exquisite pieces offer a glimpse into the creativity and skill of Lakota artisans, whose work reflects a deep connection to the land, spirituality, and community.
Campground Review
Kennebec KOA Journey is conveniently located off the highway, making it easily accessible for travelers. Despite its proximity to the road, the campground felt peaceful and surrounded by nature. We appreciated the quiet atmosphere, perfect for a restful night’s sleep.
The campground facilities were top-notch. The restrooms and showers were clean and well-maintained, and we never had to wait to use them, even during peak times. The laundry facilities were also a bonus, allowing us to freshen up our clothes before hitting the road again.
The staff at Kennebec KOA Journey were amiable and helpful. They greeted us warmly upon arrival and provided us with all the information we needed for our stay. They quickly addressed our questions or concerns, ensuring we felt welcome and comfortable throughout our visit.
Considering the quality of the facilities and services provided, we found the nightly rate reasonable. The amenities offered, such as Wi-Fi and cable TV hookups, added value to our stay. Overall, we felt we got great bang for our buck at Kennebec KOA Journey.
Most importantly, enjoy your time at the Kennebec KOA Journey campground! Take advantage of the opportunity to unwind, connect with nature, and make memories with family and friends.
Our Experience at Kennebec KOA Journey
We stayed in an RV site with full hookups, and it exceeded our expectations. The site was level, spacious, and equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. We enjoyed relaxing by the evening campfire and enjoying the starry night sky.
While we didn’t have time to take advantage of all the activities offered at the campground, we appreciated the various options, including a swimming pool, playground, and hiking trails. It’s clear that there’s something for everyone here, whether you’re traveling with kids or looking for outdoor adventure.
Our stay at Kennebec KOA Journey was everything we could have hoped for and more. After our stay, we were refreshed and rejuvenated, and we were grateful to experience such a well-maintained and welcoming campground. We would highly recommend it to fellow travelers passing through South Dakota.
Although we only stayed for one night, we had a great experience at this KOA Journey location.
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If you have visited Kennebec, South Dakota, or stayed at the Kennebec KOA let us know how your experience was.
