Rushmore Express Inn & Family Waterpark sits in Keystone, South Dakota, the small community that serves as the immediate gateway to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Located at 320 Old Cemetery Rd, the property is approximately one mile from the Rushmore Memorial entrance, making it among the most conveniently positioned overnight options for families visiting the iconic Black Hills carving. Keystone itself is a compact tourist town with souvenir shops, casual restaurants, and family attractions accessible within a short drive or walk from the hotel.
The Rushmore Express Inn distinguishes itself among Keystone-area properties through its indoor waterpark, a substantial on-site attraction particularly valued when Black Hills weather turns changeable, as afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. The waterpark includes water slides, a splash zone, and pool areas suited to children of varying ages, making the hotel a destination in its own right rather than purely a lodging base. An outdoor pool supplements the indoor facility during summer months.
Room configurations include Standard Rooms, Family Suites, and Waterpark Suites, with kitchenette options available in select room types for guests planning multi-night stays. A complimentary breakfast is included with most rate categories, covering hot items and continental selections suited to an early start before heading to Mount Rushmore, where parking areas fill before 9 AM during peak summer months. Free on-site parking eliminates a logistical concern during Keystone's busy visitor season.
The hotel's proximity to Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Crazy Horse Memorial (approximately 17 miles west) makes it a natural hub for exploring multiple Black Hills monuments in a single day. Custer State Park and the Needles Highway are within 30 minutes, providing a full Black Hills itinerary accessible from a single Keystone base.
Room types
- Standard Room
- Family Suite
- Waterpark Suite
Amenities
- indoor waterpark
- outdoor pool
- free breakfast
- free parking
- kitchenette rooms
Location
320 Old Cemetery Rd, Keystone, SD 57751
43.8928, -103.4271 View on map
Highlights
- Indoor waterpark with water slides and splash zones, operating year-round regardless of Black Hills weather
- Approximately one mile from Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the closest major hotel to the monument
- Complimentary hot breakfast included with most room rates, with service from 6 AM for early monument visits
- Family Suites and Waterpark Suites with kitchenette options for multi-night self-catering flexibility
- Free on-site parking and outdoor pool during summer months complementing the year-round indoor facility
Tips for visiting
- Mount Rushmore parking areas fill by 9 AM on summer mornings; an early departure from the hotel is essential to secure convenient parking near the amphitheater
- The Waterpark Suite connects directly to indoor waterpark access and is the recommended choice for families with young children
- The hotel's position off Old Cemetery Rd is quieter than Keystone's Main Street properties, with minimal road noise at night
- Off-peak fall visits (September–October) bring lower rates, reduced crowds at the monument, and golden Black Hills foliage along mountain roads
- Crazy Horse Memorial evening laser light shows run during summer months; the hotel is well positioned for the 30-minute drive to the site
Accessibility
Rushmore Express Inn provides ADA-accessible guest rooms with roll-in shower options and accessible bathroom configurations. The indoor waterpark and pool areas include accessible entry points for swimmers with mobility needs. The breakfast area and lobby are wheelchair accessible.
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Frequently asked questions
How far is the Rushmore Express Inn from Mount Rushmore?
The hotel is approximately one mile from the Mount Rushmore National Memorial entrance, a 3–5 minute drive. It is one of the closest lodging options to the monument in the Keystone area.
Is waterpark access included in the room rate?
Waterpark access is included for guests staying in Waterpark Suites. Standard room guests have access to the pool areas; confirm current waterpark access policies and any additional fees when booking.
Is the breakfast genuinely complimentary?
A complimentary breakfast covering hot items and continental selections is included with most standard rate categories. Some promotional discount rates may exclude breakfast; confirm inclusion at the time of booking.
Is the hotel pet-friendly?
The Rushmore Express Inn accepts pets in designated pet-friendly rooms with an additional nightly fee. Contact the hotel directly to confirm current pet policies, size restrictions, and fee amounts before arrival.
What other Black Hills attractions are near the hotel?
Crazy Horse Memorial is approximately 17 miles west, Custer State Park about 20 miles south, and Sylvan Lake within 25 miles via the Needles Highway. The hotel's Keystone location provides a central base for a multi-day Black Hills visit.