RV Rentals Rapid City, South Dakota

Explore Rapid City, South Dakota in an RVshare RV Rental  

Rapid City, South Dakota was named for a limestone spring stream that passes through the area. A group of prospectors came to the Black Hills area hoping to find gold in 1876. John Brennan, Samuel Scott, and a small group of men decided to settle at the site of present-day Rapid City. The center six blocks of the town were designated as the business area. Once this district was plotted, a committee was left in charge of bringing merchants and other family members to the settlement. 

Even though Rapid City was considered a prime location, the population was only a little under 100 people six months after the business district was established. The founders decided to take a different approach and advertise the city as the "Gateway to the Black Hills," a nickname still used today. The first few decades of the new establishment saw various successful and unsuccessful seasons. However, it continued to grow steadily over the years. The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology opened its doors in 1885 and quickly became one of the nation's most highly acclaimed technical institutions.

After the automobile was invented, Rapid City's leaders decided to build a system of roads and highways unlike any others at the time. They knew taking advantage of the new auto technology would be the key to increasing their tourism industry. In 1927, Gutzon Borglum began working on Mount Rushmore. Even before the monument officially opened in 1941, it attracted a staggering amount of visitors.

Currently, Rapid City has a population of over 81,000 and is one of the most popular destinations in South Dakota. Besides Mount Rushmore, you will want to be sure to visit Bear Country, USA; Reptile Gardens; and Storybook Island. 

Events in and Near Rapid City, South Dakota

• Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup - At the end of September, you can experience the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup. During this three-day event, cowboys and cowgirls round up and drive over 1,300 buffalo.

•  Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo - Enjoy rodeos, concerts, horse events, and much more at the end of January during the Black Hills Stock Show and Rodeo.

• Black Hills Powwow - Every October, visitors can experience the premier cultural event, Black Hills Powwow, where dancers, artisans, and singers gather.