Under Canvas Mount Rushmore

The staff made a big difference. Everyone was friendly, accommodating, and quick to offer help or ideas for hiking, sightseeing, and places worth visiting nearby. The food was phenomenal, with an eclectic menu that had something for everyone, and we thought the prices were very reasonable. It was our first time at Under Canvas Keystone, SD/Mount Rushmore, and we stayed three nights in a family tent. The location worked really well for visiting the national parks and other sites. Our accommodations were clean, comfortable, and nicely appointed, and the bathroom was clean and convenient. They’ve thought of a lot for staying out in the wilderness: a wood stove that kept the tent warm overnight, plus a water heater and shower. A huge two thumbs up and five stars from us.

The meals were a real highlight. We ate dinner twice and breakfast once, and all three were better than expected, with very fresh ingredients and well-prepared entrees. We even liked eating here more than at other stops on our trip. Service was great as well: friendly, helpful, and quick at check-in and getting us to the tent. When we called for more matches, they brought them promptly. Friday evening’s live music was a lovely way to wind down after a busy day. We stayed two nights at Under Canvas Mt. Rushmore. The wooded, quiet, private setting is very close to Mt. Rushmore, and you can see the heads from the deck. Crazy Horse and Custer State Park are convenient too. The tents are spacious and ready to drop your things in and head out. The bed and bedding were good. For cold nights, ask for a hot water bottle. Golf carts are available to carry luggage, or you, to the tent. Having a bathroom in the tent is a must for us: it has a flushing toilet, sink, and hot shower, and the water heated quickly. You do have to hold the chain, but it is camping after all.

We arrived late, but they took our dinner order and had the food waiting for us, which was so nice. The check-in staff were all pleasant, and when I left something in the tent, they retrieved it right away and held it until I could come back for it. Everyone was so accommodating. We really enjoyed our stay at Mt Rushmore Under the Canvas.

The setting is beautiful, but the actual stay was frustrating and nowhere near worth the price. We left a day early, we were so unhappy. When I asked about a partial or full refund, the front desk girl just stared blankly and said, “Yes, you can check out early, sorry you didn’t like it.” That was all the customer care we got. I understand stays are prepaid, but now I wonder if that’s because other people have similar experiences. I wouldn’t return. The tents were clean and nicely set up, but it felt like an expensive tent with a lantern, not glamping or even comfortable camping. The chairs inside were worn out, and the deck chairs were stiff. There was no power, no coffee in the tent, and none of the little comforts that might justify the price. You could hear neighbors talking, zipping tents, and campground noise all night. The food was disappointing too. Entrees cost $40, came in paper bowls, and seemed reheated rather than fresh, despite what the website says. You order at a counter, like a cafeteria, not a premium dining experience. Some items were unavailable, and staff didn’t seem to try to find alternatives. We visited in September, and the location is lovely, but the staff seemed burned out and ready for the season to end. A bartender sighed when asked for a drink. In the evening I asked for decaf coffee to enjoy on the observation deck, and the server said, “we are out,” then added, “20 more days and I can finally get out of here.” The next morning there was decaf sitting out, so apparently they had some but didn’t feel like getting it from the back for guests.