🦕🐻 From Bears to Dinosaurs – A Day in Rapid City with Bella & Dinky! 🚐🐶❤️
Some travel days are relaxing, some are scenic… and then there are the “How did we end up hanging out with bears AND dinosaurs in one day?” kind of adventures. Welcome to Rapid City, South Dakota — a town that knows how to add a little fun, a whole lot of history, and just the right amount of quirk to your RV travels.
This episode of The Simple Mile has everything:
✔ animals
✔ giant stone dinosaurs
✔ scenic downtown views
✔ tired pups
✔ and a well-earned date night
Let’s dive in!
🐻 First Stop: Bear Country USA
With Bella and Dinky buckled into the backseat — tails wagging, noses twitching, curiosity on full blast — we rolled into Bear Country USA, one of South Dakota’s most unique wildlife attractions.
This drive-through animal experience lets you stay safely inside your vehicle while observing some of the region’s most beautiful wildlife up close. And trust us… our pups were on alert status the entire time.
Bella: “Is that a dog? No… wait… that is NOT a dog.”
Dinky: silent, staring… calculating escape routes…
From massive bears lounging like they owned the place to playful cubs that reminded us of furry toddlers with questionable judgment, it was impossible not to smile, laugh, and whisper a few “oh my goodness!” moments.
🦕 Next Stop: Dinosaur Park – Because Why Not?
After our bear-watching adventure, we made our way to one of Rapid City’s most iconic spots: Dinosaur Park, where massive, retro-style dinosaur statues overlook the city from a hillside perfect for photos and views.
As soon as we stepped out, Bella immediately took on the role of tour guide slash security patrol — proudly leading us up the stairs like she had personally been hired to guard prehistoric history.
The views from the top? Stunning.
The dinosaur photo ops? Mandatory.
Bella and Dinky’s reactions? Priceless.
For a moment, it felt like we were standing in a mash-up of Jurassic Park, a scenic overlook, and a family hiking trip — minus the running, screaming, and helicopter evacuation.
🚐 A Scenic Cruise Through Downtown Rapid City
With our steps counted, photos snapped, and imaginary raptor encounters survived, we hopped back into the Jeep for a relaxed scenic spin through downtown Rapid City.
This charming little city is full of:
✨ cute local shops
✨ historic touches
✨ creative art pieces
✨ cozy cafes
✨ warm community vibes
It’s the perfect blend of small-town heart and tourist-friendly fun — and yes, we rolled through slowly enough for Bella to approve each block.
🍽️ The Best Way to End an Adventure Day
Once the pups were happily tucked back into the RV and already drifting into dreamland (likely chasing imaginary squirrels), Daniel and I slipped out for a peaceful dinner — just the two of us.
No leashes. No poop bags. No “don’t eat that!” reminders.
Just food, conversation, and a moment to enjoy being traveling partners as much as pet parents.
And honestly… that balance is part of what makes RV life amazing.
🎬 Final Thoughts
Rapid City surprised us in all the right ways — family fun, beautiful sightseeing, animals up close, and quirky attractions that make for unforgettable memories.
If you’re traveling with dogs, kids, or just love the mix of nature + nostalgia, this stop deserves a spot on your RV travel list!
James 1:5 (NIV)
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
