What is the closest airport to Missouri River?

Pierre Regional Airport (PIR) is located on the Missouri River, just 5 miles away from the water, and is serviced by United Airlines, Denver Air and Mustang Aviation charter flights. Another option is flying into Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), which offers more major carriers and road-tripping the 171 miles east to Missouri River. Or fly into Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), South Dakota's biggest and most passenger-traveled international airport, and road trip west about 222 miles, which will take you just over three hours to drive.

What is the driving distance to nearby U.S. cities from the Missouri River?

The Missouri River cuts through the central portion of South Dakota, effectively dividing the eastern and western portions of the state. The river runs through Pierre , Chamberlain and Sioux City.

What is the best time of year to visit the Missouri River?

Any time of year is great for visiting the scenic, legendary Missouri River. Hunting , fishing , biking , hiking , camping and exploring — no matter when you visit, you’ll find an adventure.

What are the busiest times of week to visit the Missouri River?

Summer brings extensive boating and watersports activity along the entire length of the river, especially in reservoir areas: Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, Lake Francis Case and Lewis & Clarke Lake. These places and other spots along the Big Mo’ are especially popular during warm-weather holidays, including July 4th, Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend. To avoid crowds, plan to hit the water during the week.

What is the climate, geographic information and history of the Missouri River?

The climate of the Missouri River, which stretches hundreds of miles through central South Dakota, is highly variable. South Dakota’s distinct seasons range from chilly winters where the temperature drops down to the teens, to summertime highs stretching into the 90s F. Geographically, the Missouri River in South Dakota is also diverse, with four manmade reservoirs that offer endless hours of fun in the sun. As for the river’s history, it has been home to Native American peoples for millennia. European explorers entered the region in the 1600s, followed by Americans (notably Lewis and Clark ) in the early 1800s. Today, South Dakota’s portion of the Missouri River is used for tourism, commerce, conservation efforts and research, and remains one of the most outstanding natural features the state has to offer.

The Missouri River | South Dakota's Great 8 Iconic Landmarks

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Missouri National Recreation River — Experience the Missouri River the way early inhabitants and explorers saw it on the Missouri National Recreational River. This 98-mile stretch, which runs between Pickstown and Nebraska’s Ponca State Park, preserves one of the last free-flowing sections of the river, where its natural beauty and native ecosystems remain largely untouched. Along it, you’ll find many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including boating, paddling, birding and camping.

Native American Powwow, South Dakota — South Dakota’s cultural roots unfold along the Native American National & State Scenic Byway, which follows the Missouri River through the lands of five Native tribes. The route follows Highway 37 at Running Water north to Highway 1806 near Kenel in the north central part of the state.

Split Rock Creek, near Garretson — The Mighty Mo' is a paddler's dream. From sailboats and houseboats to kayaks and canoes, there are many ways to play.

They call it "Big Water" — dedicated by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, the Oahe Dam controls the waters surrounded by Lake Oahe’s 2,250 miles of shoreline. More than 1 million people visit the country’s fourth-largest reservoir every year.

Lewis & Clark Recreation Area, Missouri River, near Yankton — One of South Dakota's most popular parks, Lewis and Clark Recreation Area offers 417 shaded campsites, 17 cabins, sandy beaches, hiking trails, beautiful chalkstone bluffs and a modern marina along Lewis & Clark Lake.

Pheasant hunter in a corn field aiming at a flying pheasant — The Missouri River region boasts some of North America's best pheasant hunting grounds. Whether you're new to hunting or a practiced shot, there are several ways to take your game to the next level in South Dakota, including guided hunts and top-notch hunting lodges.

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The wide Missouri River and a dramatic, cloud-filled sky in South Dakota.

Episode 12: The Corps of Discovery and the Teton Sioux

Take an audio journey to South Dakota's Missouri River, where explorers Lewis and Clark first faced the Sioux — an encounter that nearly ended their historic expedition.

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