This morning, over at the South Dakota Traveler blog, there was a post about last minute opportunities for 4th of July weekend getaways. It got me curious as to whether or not ‘out-of-town’ folks could still make reservations here in the hills this weekend on such short notice.

For those of you who have put off making 4th of July plans – Good News! There’s still space available. Some area campgrounds and hotels do still have vacancies and they’re itching to fill those spaces. So, it’s time to get, while the getting’s good.

Hotels and resorts throughout the region have available rooms listed on the Black Hills Vacations website. In addition to lodging, you can also book tickets to attractions, park entrance fees or entire vacation packages through their site. It’s a great resource for last minute bookings, especially since you have the option to pick up the phone and actually talk to a Black Hills travel specialist if you have questions that aren’t answered on the site.

If you’re more of the camping type, there are just a handful of state park camping spots still available, but some of the private camping areas like Palmer Gulch Resort might be able to accommodate you as well.

Palmer Gulch, just south of Hill City, has been hosting Black Hills visitors for decades and helping them enjoy all that the region has to offer. Just minutes from both Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, Palmer Gulch is a great place to set up a base camp for your 4th of July weekend visit to the hills.

The weather is forecast to be beautiful and there are a ton of excellent Independence Day celebrations taking place. Gas prices are affordable and it’s a three-day weekend. The Black Hills are nice and green and the wildlife is lively.

That should about cover it – you should be almost out of reasons “why you can’t visit” this 4th of July weekend. So, go ahead, book one of the still available places to stay and get thee to them thar hills!