Big Stone Island Nature Area

An 1823 expedition led by Major Stephan Long and geologist William Keating explored the Big Stone Lake region. Shortly after entering present-day South Dakota, they met an American Indian village on a rocky island (Big Island). This island, also known as Kite Island, is now the 100-acre nature area. It is a natural refuge for a variety of birds and wildlife, and is accessible only by boat, canoe or kayak.