WEATHER: a Sunny and hot. Highs in 80s
We left Rochester early (for us) at 9:30 and hit the road. We drove about 350 miles all day, due west through southern Minnesota and South Dakota. We didn't even stop for lunch...had PB and J sandwiches in the car. We blew our budget on two tanks of gas. We passed through miles and miles of cornfields, culminating in the "world-famous" Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD. 
It was built in 1892 to showcase the bountiful corn crop, and to attract more immigrant farmers to the area. Each year, they redecorate it with a new theme, using local rye, oat heads, and sour dock. Then, 275,000 ears of corn are sawed in half lengthwise and are nailed to the building.
We wandered around the town, and landed in The Depot, the town's beautifully restored train station that now houses a pub with good craft beers. Of course, we had to try one.
From there, we kept driving west. We didn't want to stop too early, as it was hot....mid-80s. We passed through lots of prairies and fields with wind generators. Lots of Black Angus cattle, with baby calves.
After a few more hours, I found a Core of Engineers campground. We weren't sure exactly where it was on the map, so with blind faith, we drove about 25 miles off the Interstate. We did find it, a beautiful location on a reservoir that is part of the Missouri River. We snatched the last site. It is full of families enjoying the Memorial Day weekend. Lots of boats.
People along the way have encouraged us to try Core of Engineer campgrounds/recreation areas. They are nice, and inexpensive. This one was FREE! The only downside is that it has only one pit toilet for the entire campground.
We made a roaring fire from scavenged dead branches and enjoyed the evening. It cooled off nicely, with a breeze from the lake. It was great to cook and eat outside.
DINNER: I had bought a can of "basil meal starter" awhile ago that I wanted to try. It is just a herb-flavored cream sauce. To that, I added sautéed canned chicken, zucchini, onions, and last night's leftover vegetable medley. I served it over penne pasta. An easy, and tasty, dish. It paired well with a Sauvignon Blanc.
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