11 Hidden Gems You Have To See In South Dakota Before You Die
By Catherine Armstrong|Updated on December 13, 2023(Originally published October 12, 2017)
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Everyone in South Dakota knows about our most popular gems. You’ve visited Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and Falls Park in Sioux Falls. Here are some lesser-known but best hidden gems in South Dakota that you should definitely have on your bucket list. Take a look!
1. Laframboise Island Nature Area, Pierre
LaFramboise Island State Nature Area, LaFramboise Island Trail, Pierre, SD 57501, USA
Lewis and Clark visited this island in 1804 and named it "Bad Humor Island" because of a tense conflict with native peoples. When you visit, you'll likely be in a much better mood - with its large cottonwood trees and pretty views of the Missouri, this nature area is a picture-perfect spot to visit in the autumn months. Read more about one of the most beautiful hidden gems in SD.
Bear Butte stands proudly 1,253 feet above the plains. It's a sacred spot for many tribes of the plains, so when you visit, please be respectful. Leave prayer cloths and other offerings alone, and enjoy the sacred nature of this majestic place. When you reach the top and silently take in the view, you'll get it. Read more about Bear Butte.
Take a look at this video of Bear Butte by @SDPBdotORG:
Located on the campus of South Dakota State University, these vibrant gardens are a true gem. Wander through 25 acres of formal gardens, and enjoy fall foliage this time of year. Read more about McCrory Gardens.
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4. Lake Louise Recreation Area, near Miller
Lake Louise State Recreation Area, 191st Street, Miller, SD, USA
Lake Louise covers 164 acres and is more than just a pretty place to spend the day. It's popular for anglers, duck hunter, and pheasant hunters, as well as a sweet spot for boating and water sports. Read more about Lake Louise Recreation Area.
5. Petrified Wood Park, Lemmon
Petrified Wood Park & Museum, 500 Main Ave, Lemmon, SD 57638, USA
The Petrified Wood Park in Lemmon definitely deserves a spot on this list. Sure, it's kind of quirky, but the structures made of petrified wood are really unique and intriguing. It's located in the small town of Lemmon, which has a population of around 1,200 people. Read more about the Petrified Wood Park, one of the most incredible hidden gems in South Dakota.
Big Sioux Recreation Area is the perfect spot to spend a fall afternoon, but it has plenty to offer year-round. Enjoy everything from fishing and boating in the summer, to snowmobiling in the winter. Read more about Big Sioux Recreation Area.
7. Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Brown County
Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge, 39650 Sand Lake Dr, Columbia, SD 57433, USA
Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge covers 21,000 acres. With its freshwater lake and ponds, this refuge is a place for thousands of nesting birds every year. Visit for the vast expanse of gorgeous grasslands, photography, and even pheasant hunting. For more information, visit the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website.
8. Mammoth Site, Hot Springs
The Mammoth Site, 1800 US-18 BYP, Hot Springs, SD 57747, USA
This site has the largest number of mammoth remains in the entire world. More than 60 mammoths have already been unearthed here, and you'll see many during your 30-minute tour. Read more about the Mammoth Site, a must-see hidden gem in South Dakota.
Take a look at this video on the Mammoth Site by @sdvideotours:
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9. Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum, Sioux Falls
Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site, 1900 S Perry Pl, Sioux Falls, SD 57110, USA
The Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum is part of the Sioux Falls Parks System and includes wetlands and formal gardens. It's a peaceful, quiet little oasis that feels far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Read more about Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum
The legend surrounding Devil's Gulch is that Jesse James jumped it on his horse while evading a posse of lawmen. Whether it's true or not, this gulch is stunning. Its red quartzite cliffs and lush greenery make this a jaw-dropping oasis. Read more about Devil's Gulch.
11. Nicollet Tower & Interpretive Center, Sisseton
Nicollet Tower & Interpretive Center, 45356 SD-10, Sisseton, SD 57262, USA
The view from Nicollet Tower is well worth the climb. Ascend 96 stairs to the top, where you'll have a view of some quintessential South Dakota landscape. Read more about the Nicollet Tower.
Take a look at this video of the Nicollet Tower by @c-k-h:
Remember to be respectful when you visit these hidden gems so that others may enjoy them, too. Pack out everything you bring in, clean up after pets, and remember to treasure these gems and keep them pristine.
Which of these best hidden gems in South Dakota have you already visited? What other places would you add to our list? Let us know!
