Bear Butte State Park

I’m camped at Bear Butte State Park, which is just a few miles from Sturgis, South Dakota.  The campground is small, no hookups, vault toilet (i.e. outhouse), a water spigot, a few small trees for shade, and decent T-mobile service.  The only noise is the sound of the wind.

There are a couple of tent campers and a campground host with a big motor home.  He/She has full hookups.  But I didn’t camp here for the company or the amenities or the $11.67 (tax included) campsite.  Bear Butte is a special place, long-held sacred by the Cheyenne and Lakota.  On the summit trail, the indigenous people perform ceremonies during special occasions.   Just off the path appear sacrifices of tobacco, pieces of clothing, and other items. Hikers are requested  to remain quiet and respectful.  The place made a special impression on me during a previous visit many years ago.

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the summit trail. I could try to leave Elvis in the camper or the truck while I hike the two to three hours round trip, but it doesn’t seem right.  I’ve been here once before, I remember the trail; it needs no repeating if Elvis can’t come.

So I’ll spend my time here enjoying the views of Bear Butte,  the reservoir, and the Black Hills in the distance.  There’s a stiff, cooling breeze, blowing across Bear Butte Reservoir.  A couple of hiking paths lead from the campground around the water.  Even though I’m not up on the mountain, I’m still getting that peaceful feeling of enjoying the simple things in nature.  There will be other mountains, Elvis.