On Sunday, August 25, 2002, we took a drive along US Highway 16 into Keystone, then out on South Dakota Highway 40 to view the damaged caused by the Battle Creek Fire. It was not yet out, but was contained. There were travel restrictions still in effect for US Hwy 16 – 40 MPH limit, no parking, and left lane only most of the way.

Firefighers’ Camp – Home away from home

Camp Support

Mountain in the distance is severely burned

Burned areas right up to the west side of US Hwy 16

A lot of completely burned trees on this hill

More burned areas along US Hwy 16

Mt. Rushmore exit – 2 miles

The fire crossed SD Hwy 40

Burned areas on the south side of SD Hwy 40 with Mt. Rushmore in the distance

Fire was close to this buildings

Burned areas on both side of the road and on the distant hill

Only one of many `Thank You Firefighters’ signs

House destroyed but garage remains

Same destroyed house with melted dish. Garage and propane tank in tack

The fire burned right up to Rushmore Cave

Another angle of Rushmore Cave

No Parking along US Hwy 16

Speed limit 40 MPH on US Hwy 16

Burned area on east side of US Hwy 16

Hillside completely burned

nother burned hill on the west side of US Hwy 16

More Camp