Palisades State Park

If You Like Custer State Park, You’ll Love…

these other amazing (and lesser known) parts of South Dakota
Palisades State Park, Garretson

With rock formations, peaceful waters, thick forest, and the view from Black Elk Peak, it’s no surprise that Custer State Park is considered the crown jewel of South Dakota. But that can lead to thick crowds, especially in the summer. Want to get some of the same joy with less crowds? Check out these recommendations. Beauty is better without lines, right?

If you like rock formations, you’ll love…

Palisades State Park
Garretson

The Sioux quartzite formations that tower above Split Rock Creek keep people coming back to this southeast South Dakota park. The creek carved a gorge through the rock, making cliffs on each side (and great climbing right off the water, if you’re into that). Everyone from photographers to climbers love the area that’s easy to explore – and even easier to enjoy.

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Petrified Wood Park
Petrified Wood Park and Museum
Lemmon

We're not sure if there's any other place in the world that has a full city block of petrified wood, including 20-foot-tall towers and petrified dinosaur & mammoth bones. We just know it's pretty cool to stroll through, especially when the gift shop is open between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

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If you like scenic drives, you’ll love…

Highway 14
Highway 14

Forget about the interstate. Replace it with Highway 14, and you'll find everything from fresh produce to dinosaurs, giant sandwiches, hidden gems, and museums for every age. Click the link below for a full breakdown of everything you can see when you go off the beaten path.

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Native American Scenic Byway
Native American Scenic Byway

Cruise the Native American National and State Scenic Byway through central South Dakota for cultural immersion on the open road. Along the way, keep your eyes hope for historical sights, impressive art, a towering statue, and eagles soaring through the sky.

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If you like hiking, you’ll love…

Hikers climb down the Crow Peak Trail.
Black Hills hiking magic
Western South Dakota

There's a reason that many tribal members consider the Black Hills sacred. In fact, there are a lot of reasons. Whether or not you stroll on the craggy trails in the Badlands, make sure you know what options await you in nearby Black Hills National Forest. Click below for 10 of our favorites.

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Woman passing sign on hiking trail
Hidden hiking gems
Eastern South Dakota

Great hiking doesn't end when you enter the eastern part of the state. Take a look at the link below to find 5 of the area's best hiking trails. We guarantee some surprises along the way.

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If you like big views, you’ll love…

Nicollet Tower
Nicollet Tower
Rural Sisseton

Named for Joseph N. Nicollet, a French mapmaker who explored northeast South Dakota in the 1830s, this 80-foot tower offers a three-state view that’s as captivating as it is expansive.

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Falls Park observation tower
Falls Park Tower
Sioux Falls

An average of 7,400 gallons of water drops 100 feet over the course of these falls ever second. Wander the 123 acres near downtown Sioux Falls to take in the rushing water and eye-pleasing rock formations, but don’t forget to take a free trip up the observation tower to look out over South Dakota’s biggest city.

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If you like spotting wildlife, you’ll love…

A Cedar Waxwing bird in southeast South Dakota
Top birding spots
Statewide

From rolling hills and prairie marshes & lakes to sky-piercing granite peaks and lush mountain meadows, South Dakota's diverse terrain is home to a variety of habitats and nearly 400 species of birds. Enjoy the ultimate birding experience on trails in public and protected habitats across the state.

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Flying Hawk
Raptor Alley
Highway 34

Locals and photographers have nicknamed the stretch of Highway 34 between Sturgis and Pierre "Raptor Alley" for good reason. Hit the road at the right time for a good chance at seeing hawks, eagles and other birds of prey. 

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If you like camping off the beaten path, you’ll love…

Camping near Missouri River
Unique Camping Spots
Statewide

If you're going to camp out, you might as well have the ultimate experience. You can do just that at one of these unique South Dakota spots that range from lakeside to full of wildlife-spotting opportunities.

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Tent Camping South Dakota
Dispersed & Backcountry Camping
Statewide

Make sure your next SoDak getaway includes "getting away" at one of these hidden camping gems. Breathe the fresh air and enjoy a trip away from the world, even when you're surrounded by some very pretty parts of it.

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