Badlands National Park rock formations covered in snow at dusk
National & State Parks icon
Badlands National Park
South Dakota Parks

In addition to six National Park Service sites—including the epic Badlands National Park, the majestic presidential figures of Mount Rushmore Memorial, one of the longest caves in the world at Jewel Cave National Monument, The Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail which spans 15 other states, the free-flowing stretch of Missouri National Recreation River, the iconic weapon in American nuclear arsenal at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, and finally, the wild grasslands of Wind Cave National Park.

Meanwhile, the South Dakota State Park system features 63 state parks and recreation areas that showcase the state’s diverse terrain and landscapes. From expanses of prairies, backcountry mountains, plentiful lakes and lush woods with plenty of room to play, South Dakota is rich with great places to get outside, recharge and reconnect. See why we embraced the state motto: "Great Faces, Great Places."

Play Video
The Wild Corners of South Dakota
Play Video

The Wild Corners of South Dakota

Badlands National Park

One of the Great 8 wonders found in South Dakota. Hike through the Badlands, be amazed by a sunrise and experience mother nature at its finest.

Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Come see the faces of South Dakota. Completed in 1941 under the direction of Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln, the sculpture's roughly 60-ft.-high granite faces depict U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. 

Sica Hollow
Sica Hollow State Park

Sica (pronounced she-cha) Hollow State Park - located 15 miles northwest of Sisseton in the northeastern corner of South Dakota. Enjoy a wide variety of year-round activities and is the source of many eerie Native American legends. 

Lewis and Clark State Park
Lewis & Clark Recreation Area

Near Yankton, in the Southeast Region of the state of South Dakota, you will find an outdoor paradise where you can enjoy the scenic beauty.

Jewel Cave
Jewel Cave National Monument

Make your reservations — we recommend getting them as early as possible — to experience the world's third-longest cave. You can choose your level of underground expedition, from the 20-min and handicap-accessible Discovery Talk to the intense exploration of the Wild Caving Tour.

Rock Climbers Palisades State Park
Palisades State Park

The highlight of this more than 400-acre state park is the 50-ft cliffs of rose-colored Sioux quartzite and scenic overlooks that make it popular with campers, hikers, rock climbers, photographers and sight-seers. This hidden gem of a state park is only a 30-minute drive northeast from Sioux Falls, outside of Garretson. 

Farm Island State Park
Farm Island State Recreation Area

Located near Pierre, South Dakota with access to Lake Sharpe. Swimming, hiking and camping are just some of the activities you and your family can enjoy.

Mickelson Trail Black Hills
George S. Mickelson Trail

The premier trail within the South Dakota State Park system, this 109-mile jewel follows an abandoned railroad bed north and south through the length of the Black Hills.

Find National & State Parks

Showing 25 - 30 of 66
Sort by
So Much More South Dakota to Explore

Another adventure is always waiting just around the bend in South Dakota. Get inspired and say #HiFromSD to share your vacation experiences!

Trip Planning Resources
Illustrated image of three bison grazing in Custer State Park. The Needles rock formation is visible in the background.
Let Us Help You Plan
Feeding a burro
Stay In Touch With SD
A woman stands in front of a painting featuring two multicolored individuals with rainbows of color cascading over them
Earn Prizes as You Travel