Title: Why We Loved Scotts Bluff National Monument
Hey everyone, Dane here from the Double Decker Fam! If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that our unique family adventures across the United States in our converted Double Decker RV are never short of surprises and hidden gems. This time around, we’ve stumbled upon an unforgettable experience at Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska, and boy, was it a hit with the family!
First off, for those who aren’t familiar with Scotts Bluff, it’s a stunning natural formation that has served as a landmark for Native Americans, emigrants, and travelers for centuries. It rises majestically from the plains of Nebraska and is steeped in history. Now, let’s dive into why this place captured our hearts and why your family might just fall in love with it too.
Captivating History
One of the standout features of Scotts Bluff is its rich history. The Oregon Trail, a 2,170-mile historic East-West, large-wheeled wagon route that connected the Missouri River to valleys in Oregon, passed right through here. You can almost feel the echoes of the past as you take the same paths that pioneers trekked so many years ago. We explored the interpretive trails and visitor’s center, where the kids were fascinated by the stories and artifacts on display.
For a more in-depth understanding of the area’s history, the National Park Service’s website offers great resources that can enhance your visit. We made sure to check this out beforehand to prepare some fun history quizzes for the kids during the drive!
Hiking Adventures
As an active family, we’re always on the lookout for new trails, and the hikes at Scotts Bluff did not disappoint. There are several trails, but our favorite was the Saddle Rock Trail, which led us up to the summit. The views at the top are absolutely breathtaking! Beyond the physical activity, hiking here gave us the perfect opportunity to teach the kids about the flora and fauna, as well as the geology of this landmark.
Remember, always bring plenty of water and snacks for the trail, and if you’re hiking during the summer months, start early to beat the heat! A great tip from the pros at REI Co-op is to keep hikes with kids engaging by turning them into a game or including a scavenger hunt – this worked wonders for us!
Photography Paradise
If you follow our DoubleDeckerFam adventures on social media, you know I’m always behind the camera capturing our moments. Scotts Bluff National Monument is a photographer’s dream, from the imposing rock faces to the vast landscapes that surround it. The lighting at sunrise and sunset provides some of the most stunning natural backdrops for family photos. Just don’t forget to charge those camera batteries; you’ll be clicking away nonstop!
Junior Ranger Program
The Junior Ranger Program at Scotts Bluff was a highlight for our youngest twins and the older kids alike. It’s an amazing educational resource that encourages children to explore, learn, and protect our national parks. They had a blast completing the activities and were so proud to earn their Junior Ranger badges. What a special keepsake to remember our visit! Check out more information on the Junior Ranger Program here.
Spacious RV Camping
As full-time RVers, finding great spots to camp is crucial for us. While Scotts Bluff National Monument doesn’t have camping within the park, there are several RV campgrounds in the surrounding area. We opted for the Robidoux RV Park, which is just a stone’s throw away from the monument. Featuring all the necessary amenities and a comfortable setting, it offered a perfect home base for us to rest and recharge after a day of exploring.
When searching for the best RV camping spots across the country, one indispensable resource we use is Campendium, providing user reviews and tips for finding those prime locations.
A Learning Journey
Our visit to Scotts Bluff wasn’t only an adventure; it was a learning journey for all of us. We had discussions about the pioneers’ endurance, the rich cultural tapestry of the Native American tribes, and the incredible natural processes that formed such magnificent structures. Travel is our family’s way of experiencing the vast classroom that is the world around us, and there seem to be lessons tucked into every crack and crevice of this beautiful monument.
An Inexpensive Experience
Affordability is always on our minds, with a big family like ours. It was refreshing to find that visiting Scotts Bluff National Monument is either very low-cost or free. The value of the experience versus the cost is astounding, making this an economical gem for traveling families.
In Conclusion
Scotts Bluff National Monument exceeded our expectations. It provided us with a space to learn, explore, and make unforgettable memories together. If you’re a family who cherishes nature, history, and adventure (all while sticking to a budget), add Scotts Bluff to your must-visit list!
I hope our journey to this historic site inspires you to pack up the car or RV and embark on your own family adventure. Whether you’re passing through Nebraska or making a special trip to see Scotts Bluff, it’s a destination that promises to leave you richer in memories and knowledge.
Thanks for following along, fellow travelers! Until our next adventure, keep exploring, keep learning, and most importantly, keep making those precious family memories.
Safe travels,
Dane (and the Eyerly family AKA the Double Decker Fam)