Where can you go to see a ton of wildlife? Maybe you wanted to see a fox? How about seeing a pronghorn or elk? Maybe you’re looking to see a mountain lion? Or just maybe you want to see some bears? Well strap on your hiking boots. And get ready to cover a lot of ground. That is if, maybe you can get lucky enough to see them. Don’t forget to leave thousands of miles and a couple months worth of time. Since odds are you won’t find them all in the same place. And seeing all of them right away when you do get to the right place is slim to none.
But maybe there is an easier way? Just head to Bear Country USA. Where you can see all of them in hours instead. This fun little attraction just outside of Rapid City is the only way to pull this off. And it’s fun for the whole family.
This park was first opened in 1972 by Dennis and Pauline Casey. And is spread out over 200 acres. The drive alone is very picturesque. And could be worth the price of admission alone. But we were here to see animals right? You do drive through most of the park. So you don’t even have to leave the luxury of your car for a lot of the attractions.
As you pull into the park you’re given a map to follow when you pay for your entrance to the park. Head to the Bear Country USA website to see their current pricing. You are not allowed to go through the park on a motorcycle or soft top vehicle. And you must stay in your car and have your windows rolled up. And there is very good reason for that. But we will get to that in a minute.
As you wind your way through the roads you will see some of North Americas great animals. A lot of which I personally never seen without going to Bear Country USA. Arctic wolves, mountain Lions, big horn sheep, and elk can all be seen from the enjoyment of your car. And with you at a safe distance and behind a fence.
Then you come to an area that is wide open. Where you can see deer, buffalo, and pronghorn all grazing openly. It is very nice. And fun to see them in what looks to be a very natural environment for the animals.
But this is Bear Country right? Where are the bears? As you pull your car into another area you see them. This is where I suddenly realized I am very small. And could easily be a snack for these guys. They are big and in your face. You are surrounded by bears. With them walking in front of your car without a care in the world. Walking next to your car just feet away. And when they do look at you, you are pretty sure they are wondering how you would taste. It is very exciting.
As you pull out of the drive area, you have the small animal area. Where you do get out and walk around. With beavers, badgers and porcupine. All very nice to see up close and safely. But much like the car drive, the true stand outs are the baby bear cubs. You could watch them playing and running around for hours.
Bear Country is a very fun, exciting, and educational park. With it located just outside of Rapid City on the way to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and a ton of other locations. It is a very easy stop. It’s also to be noted that it will be different every time you go. With animals changing and the overall experience to change every time. So even if you have been there before, it can be good for another stop. You will never know what to expect. It currently is scheduled to reopen this Friday April 23, 2021. But this can change due to weather. Just Check their website at bearcountryusa.com. They also have a list of different events. As well as a bunch of different organizations they sponsor. Supporting their local community.
So if your looking for a little adventure this year, head to Bear Country USA. You’ll be glad you did.
Until next time.