Palisades State Park

The park lies on the Coteau des Prairies, a plateau on the northern Great Plains where Split Rock Creek has carved a gorge through the prairie, forming dramatic cliffs and spires in the Sioux quartzite. The billion-year-old quartzite formations reach up to 50 feet and are popular among rock climbers, hikers and campers. Within the quartzite are deposits of catlinite, a softer mineral essential to many Indigenous groups to make ceremonial pipes, making Palisades State Park a unique historic destination.

History

1.2 billion years ago, this area was underwater. Silica sand covered the bottom and layers, creating the sedimentary Sioux quartzite. For thousands of years, Indigenous tribes used this abundance of quartzite and pipestone to create peace pipes from the soft stone.

Pioneers settled the area in 1865, harnessing Split Rock Creek to power a flour and feed mill. Around it, they formed the town of Pleasant Valley, which was promptly renamed Palisades after the tall rock formations. C.W. Patten built the mill in 1870, using a system of cables along the river to harness water power for the flour mill.

The railroad came through in the 1880s, followed by a second railroad just south of town in Garretson. At the same time, the population dwindled in search of silver downstream, vacating the area and creating the haven of Palisades State Park. Today, the Palisades Bridge, constructed in 1908, is still standing.

Things to Do: Activities & Amenities

• Birdwatching: The park’s cliffs and rock formations provide nesting sites for some birds, while the creek and surrounding areas provide habitat for others. While exploring the park, you might spot large birds like hawks, owls, woodpeckers and flickers soaring overhead or perched in the trees. Small birds like sparrows, grackles, meadowlarks, finches, cardinals and starlings can also be seen (and heard) throughout the park.
• Fishing: Split Rock Creek is home to a variety of fish species. Anglers can catch northern pike, white crappie, channel catfish, largemouth bass and walleye. Fish however you prefer, from canoes and kayaks to fly fishing and shore fishing. Forgot your rod? Don’t fret. Fishing poles are available for checkout from the Welcome Center during the summer months.
• Kayaking: Paddle downstream and enjoy stunning views of the towering quartzite spires as you explore Split Rock Creek. This unique vantage point from the water offers an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the sheer scale and intricate details of Palisades State Park's most iconic natural wonders.
• Picnicking: Palisades State Park offers two convenient picnic areas in its designated day-use section. These areas are situated on opposite banks of the picturesque Split Rock Creek, providing visitors with idyllic settings for outdoor meals.
• Rock Climbing: The sheer walls of quartzite right off the water are popular beginner climbing spots; however, you may find some more difficult routes along the way. The never-ending crack systems, crimps and slopers make bouldering and climbing accessible. Coupled with little traffic, it's a great place to climb with a friend or two in peace.
• Volleyball: During the spring and summer seasons, visitors to Palisades State Park can check out volleyballs from the Welcome Center. Bump, set, spike!

Welcome Center & History

The Welcome Center is located at the entrance to the park. Here, you can pay for day or overnight access. Depending on the season and staff availability, the Welcome Center provides lawn games, volleyballs and fishing poles for checkout when an attendant is on duty.

The Welcome Center's hours of operation vary depending on staffing availability. It is typically open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the summer, with decreased hours in the winter due to fewer visitors and staff.

Hiking & Biking Trails

The Palisades State Park trails feature several scenic paths showcasing the quartzite formations. The King and Queen Rock Trail (0.2 miles) leads directly to the park's most dramatic geological features, where towering Sioux rose quartzite walls rise from Split Rock Creek. The Balancing Rock Trail (0.6 miles) starts near a scenic overlook of these famous formations, while the Split Rock Creek Trail (1.5 miles) descends to the creek level for up-close views. The shorter South Wall Trail (0.4 miles) provides additional perspectives of the impressive quartzite cliffs. These well-maintained trails offer options for families and hikers of all skill levels.

Check out the Palisades State Park Trail Map for more information.

Wildlife Viewing

South Dakota is home to a diverse array of wildlife. From insects, mammals, reptiles and birds, you’re destined to encounter critters at Palisades State Park. The park provides a sanctuary for many animals. As you hike through the area, you may see beavers, squirrels, whitetail deer, rabbits, snakes and turkeys. After nightfall, raccoons and bats may make their appearance.

Seasonal Information

Entrance: The park entrance at 48422 256th Street remains open year-round, though winter snow and ice can limit accessibility to certain areas. Blizzards may create challenging road conditions, so check current weather conditions and forecasts before visiting.

Weather Conditions: The park is open year-round; however, winter snow and ice can limit accessibility. Be sure to:

• Check current weather conditions and forecasts before you go.
• Consult the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website or call the park directly for any specific advisories or temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.

Facilities: Some facilities have seasonal closures during the winter months. This includes comfort stations with toilets and showers, as well as select cabins. However, vault toilets remain open all year.

Where to Stay

Enjoy the outdoor experience by booking one of the park's campgrounds, cabins or the charming Palisades State Park Lodge for a blend of nature and comfort. For family fun, try Sioux Falls’ Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Brandon, just 20 minutes from the park. Not looking to camp? Within Garretson, where Palisades State Park is located, The Davis offers both short and long-term stay options. To enjoy the remote park but return to something more metropolitan, try a hotel in Sioux Falls, South Dakota's largest city. Quality Inn Brandon is one of the closest hotel options to the park, while luxury options like Canopy by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn provide comfortable retreats from the outdoors.

Dining Nearby

Check out Garretson’s local wine scene with Humble Hill Winery’s seasonal selection. For Midwest realism, go to The Gulch Bar & Grill in Garretson for beer, cocktails and bar food. Heading west? Sioux Falls offers a variety of restaurants, from fine dining at R Wine Bar & Kitchen, where you can get Italian-inspired dishes, to phenomenal sandwiches, soups, and salads at Bread & Circus Sandwich Kitchen.

Address, Hours & Contact Info

Address:
48422 256th St.
Garretson, SD 57030

Phone: 
605-773-6245

Email: 
[email protected]

Park Hours: The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. for day visitors.

Only registered overnight guests are allowed between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. During this restricted time, quiet hours are observed. Be courteous to campers and animals around you by quieting all audio devices and unreasonable sounds until morning.