Are there park entrance fees?

Yes, every vehicle entering the park must have a park entrance license. These can be purchased online or at any park or wildlife office. Daily : $10 for residents $15 for nonresidents Annual : $40 for residents $60 for nonresidents Campsites : Non-electrical: $16 per night Horse Camp: $18 per night

Yes, camping is allowed at Sica Hollow State Park. Reservations are required for Sica Hollow campsites. Reservations can be made in advance online to ensure campsites are available.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Sica Hollow State Park, situated in the northeastern part of South Dakota, experiences four distinct seasons , each offering a unique way to experience its unique landscape and activities. Summer is the park's busiest season, with warm temperatures in the 70s and 80s creating a warm, adventurous atmosphere. Visitors enjoy hiking, camping and picnicking. Guided moon hikes add to the park's mystical lore. Fall in the park is a magical and crisp wonderland as temperatures cool to the 50s and 60s. This is the most popular time to visit, as the vibrant “blaze of color” from the changing leaves makes it ideal for hiking and photography. Winter transforms the park into a quiet, serene and cold landscape, with temperatures often in the teens or below. Activities are limited to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a solitary and beautiful experience for those prepared for the cold. Spring brings a fresh and rejuvenating feel, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s. This is a great time for hiking and horseback riding on muddy trails as the landscape awakens with wildflowers and new growth.

Is Sica Hollow pet-friendly?

Yes, Sica Hollow State Park is pet-friendly. You can bring your dogs, but they must be kept under control at all times on a leash no longer than six feet. Additionally, pets are not allowed in any of the park's indoor facilities.

Is Sica Hollow kid-friendly?

Yes, Sica Hollow State Park is considered kid-friendly , offering several features that make it ideal for families. The park features well-maintained and easy hiking trails, such as the Trail of the Spirits, which is a short walk suitable for children of all ages. Its reddish bogs and flowing springs can captivate a child's imagination, serving as an introduction to geology and nature. While the park has a reputation for folklore, a daytime visit is a great way to engage older children with its rich history without being scary.

What is the closest airport?

The closest commercial airports to Sica Hollow State Park are Watertown Regional Airport (ATY) and Aberdeen Regional Airport (ABR). For a wider range of flight options, consider flying into Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), a larger airport with a wider range of direct flights. Sioux Falls Regional Airport is a two-and-a-half-hour drive away.

What are the busiest times of the week to visit?

The busiest times of the week to visit Sica Hollow State Park are weekends and holidays, particularly in the summer and fall. During these times, locals and tourists have time off and are more likely to take a day trip or go camping.

What other attractions are nearby?

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park : Located about 25 miles southeast of Sica Hollow, Fort Sisseton is a restored frontier army outpost from the 1860s. Visitors can explore the 14 original stone buildings and learn about the fort's role in the American Indian Wars. The fort also hosts various reenactments and festivals throughout the year. Roy Lake State Park : Just 10 miles from Sica Hollow, Roy Lake State Park is a popular destination for water-based recreation. The park offers camping, fishing, boating, swimming and hiking. Its serene lake environment is a great contrast to the mysterious, forested ravines of Sica Hollow. Blue Dog State Fish Hatchery : This is South Dakota's largest fish hatchery, located near Blue Dog Lake. It's a great spot for a family visit, thanks to the visitor center, aquarium and educational displays about the state's fisheries. International Vinegar Museum : Located in the small town of Roslyn, this quirky museum is dedicated to vinegar. It features a wide array of vinegars from around the world and offers tours with taste testing. It's a fun and unusual stop for those seeking something unique.

Sica Hollow State Park

Nestled in the Prairie Coteau Hills in the northeast corner of South Dakota, Sica Hollow State Park is known for its beauty as much as its ancient folklore and legends.

Located just 15 miles from Sisseton, the park offers a wide variety of year-round activities, including hiking, camping and horseback riding. Throughout the park, underground water creates stunning and distinctive springs, bogs and waterfalls as it rises to the surface. Explore the ancient oak forest, vast prairie landscapes and meandering ravines that lead to peaceful streams crisscrossing the park.

History

Formed by receding glaciers, Sica Hollow is made up of hills and ravines called “Paha Tanka,” or “Great Hills” by the Dakota people. The name "Sica" (pronounced shee-chah) is a Dakota word meaning “bad” or “evil.” The park’s name originates from the “Legend of Hand,” where a peaceful Dakota camp in the hollow, known as “Makóce Wašte” or “Good Land,” was corrupted by a stranger named “Hand.” Hand’s negative influence was thankfully temporary. To cleanse the land, the elders and medicine man prayed to the Great Spirit, Wakantanka. A messenger called the Thunderer answered their prayers, removing Hand and his followers.

The Trail of Spirits, the park’s most popular trail, leads through the park by the red, gurgling bogs. Legend states that this is a place where supernatural forces are at work, but thousands of visitors every year enjoy the park without any mystical interference.

Sica Hollow autumn in South Dakota — Streams and natural springs bubble throughout the park

A sign marks the Trail of the Spirits at Sica Hollow State Park — The Trail of the Spirits is a popular trail at Sica Hollow State Park

Wildflowers and prairie grasses at Sica Hollow State Park

Things to Do: Activities & Amenities

Hiking, Biking & Horseback Riding: Hiking and biking are some of the most popular activities at Sica Hollow. The network of multi-use trails is a popular draw for the park, providing opportunity for hiking, biking and horseback riding.
Geocaching: The park offers geocaching, a modern-day treasure hunt. By using a GPS and following GPS coordinates, explorers can find hidden “caches” left by other players.
Birdwatching: More than 400 species of birds have been reported at Sica Hollow State Park, creating an ideal atmosphere for birdwatching. The diverse habitats, including forests, prairies and wetlands, attract a variety of birds like scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, warblers and woodpeckers.
Historical Interest: The park is steeped in history and folklore, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the past. Visitors can explore the legends of the Dakota people and their legends of the mysterious hollow.
Picnicking: Sica Hollow offers designated picnic areas with tables and grills, providing a great way to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Snowshoeing: During the winter months, when the park is covered in snow, snowshoeing becomes a great way to experience the quiet beauty of the hollow.

Hiking & Biking Trails

Sica Hollow State Park features an extensive trail network that winds through rugged, forested ravines and rolling hills. The park's crown jewel is the Trail of the Spirits, a 1-mile National Recreation Trail that follows Roy Creek through a mystical landscape of bogs and natural springs steeped in Dakota folklore. This accessible footpath gives visitors an introduction to the park's rich cultural heritage and unique wetland ecosystem.

Beyond the Trail of the Spirits, Sica Hollow includes an interconnected system of multi-use trails designed primarily for hiking and horseback riding. The 7-mile Perimeter Loop Trail circles the entire park and serves as the backbone of the trail system. Shorter connectors create flexible routing options: the half-mile Hollow Creek Trail cuts through the park's center, the 0.7-mile Maple Valley Trail links multiple routes, the quarter-mile Turkey Run Trail connects to the perimeter loop and the 0.6-mile Meadow Wood Trail creates shorter loop alternatives.

Seasonal Information

Entrance: The park's main entrance is open all year, regardless of the season. Sica Hollow State Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's crucial to understand that “open” does not always mean fully accessible.

Weather Conditions: During heavy snowfall, the park's roads, particularly those leading to the campground, may not be plowed and can become impassable. If you plan to visit during winter, it's always wise 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: While the park's campground is open all year, there are no electrical or water hookups. Other amenities like modern comfort stations and showers are closed in the winter to prevent freezing. Vault toilets and some picnic areas remain accessible.

Where to Stay

In Sisseton, visitors will find several lodging options to choose from. The Super 8 by Wyndham Sisseton is a popular choice, offering a straightforward motel experience with standard amenities including free breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking. The town also features independently owned accommodations such as the Holiday Motel and I-29 Motel, which provide basic but comfortable lodging for travelers exploring the area. Additionally, places like Roy Lake Resort & Lodge and Hidden Hill Lodge & Guide Service offer a more rustic, outdoors-focused experience.

Dining Nearby

In Sisseton, you'll find a few local spots offering American and regional cuisine. Known for its homemade food and variety of dishes, Rosalie's Restaurant, Bakery and Lounge is a popular local establishment serving American classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Crossroads Restaurant, located at the Dakota Connection Casino, offers a mix of classic American and authentic Indigenous dishes, providing a convenient dining option with a diverse menu that reflects the area's cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Address, Hours & Contact Info

Address:
44950 Park Rd.
Sisseton, SD 57262

Phone:
605.910.4521

Email:
[email protected]

Park Hours: Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.