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

If You Like Rock Formations, You'll Love...

Palisades State Park

Garretson

The Sioux quartzite formations that tower above Split Rock Creek at Palisades State Park 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.

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 and mammoth bones. We just know Petrified Wood Park & Museum is pretty cool to stroll through, especially when the gift shop is open between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

If You Like Scenic Drives, You'll Love...

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 above for a full breakdown of everything you can see when you go off the beaten path.

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 open for historical sights, impressive art, a towering statue and eagles soaring through the sky.

If You Like Hiking, You'll Love...

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. Check out 10 of our favorites.

Hidden Hiking Gems

Eastern South Dakota

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

If You Like Big Views, You'll Love...

Nicollet Tower

Rural Sisseton

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

Falls Park Tower

Sioux Falls

An average of 7,400 gallons of water drops 100 feet over the course of these famed falls every 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.

If You Like Spotting Wildlife, You'll Love...

Top Birding Spots

Statewide

From rolling hills and prairie marshes and 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.

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.

If You Like Camping Off the Beaten Path, You'll Love...

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 camping spots that range from lakeside to full of wildlife-spotting opportunities.

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.