The first day of June, 2026, proved to be much less chaotic than the last day of May. We took our time to get the day started, sleeping in well past my normal wake-up mode. After letting Squirty explore the best patch of grass to water her overnight storage, I focused on my morning ritual.
The second use of my garden sprayer to take a shower instead of using the rig’s water heater, confirmed my belief that I could get the job done while conserving precious water on board.I have the mix of heated water from the whistling teapot with tap water to fill the gallon container 1/3 full. It’s enough and then some for my shower.
Breakfast was prepared and consumed, then we squared away the inside of the travel trailer, did our pre-trip checklist to make sure everything was good to go, and off we went, leaving Iowa behind and headed into South Dakota. After topping off the fuel tank in nearby Brandon and a nice chat with the cashier about her town’s upcoming big event at their Speedway, we set off for the I-90 westbound exit at the north end of town.
While I knew that the long distances between towns in the west had made changes in the speed limits on the Interstates, it was still a surprise to see the first 80 MPH Speed Limit sign, and the reality of having traffic whiz by my 60 mph SUV-Trailer ensemble occupying the far right lane.
The plan had always been to make use of the REST AREAS along the way, giving Squirty and Me time to get out, and stretch our legs. The first one was unremarkable, just bare bones, a small building with rest rooms and not much else. Plenty of parking for cars, and trucks-cars with trailers sectioned off. I did not have to ask about overnight stays though, as there was a notice posted that NO overnight stays were permitted at any South Dakota Reast Area, that the maximum you can park is 3 hours. Good To Know.
I did stay there longer than a basic ‘pit stop’, making some phone calls to take care of personal business. Then we left to drive a little over an hour to Mitchell, SD, home of ‘The Corn Palace’.
I had stopped by this facility a few years ago, so didn’t re-visit, but it’s an interesting place that you should check out if you’re traveling through this part of the country.
I did stop by their good sized Walmart to get a few things, then after calling ahead, I received permission to park overnight at the nearby Cabela’s. They have a section in the back of the store that will accommodate 18 rigs. Not sure where we’ll be staying tonight, but I have a few ideas, we’ll just take our time, slow down and see where life takes us.
