A Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To South Dakota’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes And More!
While South Dakota is best-known for Mount Rushmore, the state has so much more to offer! With countless lakes, beaches, hikes, and mountains, whatever kind of trip you are seeking can surely be found in South Dakota. Lewis and Clark traveled through the state on their legendary adventure, and while often overlooked by other adventurers, South Dakota truly offers a remarkable range of outdoor places for nature lovers to check out. From beautiful parks and geographical features, to sublime lakes and mountains, South Dakota’s natural beauty is abundant!
The Best Little Known Park In South Dakota
Lake Herman State Park was created by glacial ice melt thousands of years ago, and features a unique peninsula where you can go to be surrounded by water. Fishing, camping, and many other water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular on the water surrounding the peninsula, and if you are looking for a unique park near the water, Lake Herman State Park is surely the perfect place.
The Most Pristine Beach In South Dakota
Sylvan Lake in South Dakota, is home to one of the state's most pristine beaches! Sylvan Lake formed after the nearby Sunday Gulch was dammed way back in 1881. Whether you want to hike, fish, kayak, swim, or simply relax on the beach and look at the awesome rock formations along the shore, Sylvan Lake has everything you need for the perfect beach day in South Dakota!
The Most Jaw Dropping Lake In South Dakota
Pactola Lake can be found in the Black Hills outside Rapid City, and is the region's largest reservoir. At 150 feet deep and with 14 miles of shoreline, Pactola Lake is perfect for relaxing on the beach, hiking, swimming, or taking out the boat. Perhaps most exciting, scuba diving is also available at Pactola Lake! No matter what kind of activity or adventure you're looking for, Pactola Lake has something for everyone.
The Most Beautiful Island In South Dakota
Hidden in the Missouri River, the LaFramboise Island Nature Area is an incredible island that has been explored by amateur and professional nature-lovers, including Lewis and Clark. The island is perfect for boating, birdwatching, hiking, and observing wildflowers in the right season, and what better place to escape the city than an island? Be sure to check out the LaFramboise Island Nature Area and all it has to offer soon!
The Best Trail To Hike In South Dakota
Oak Forest Trail, found in Good Earth State Park is the perfect trail for those looking for a quick walk to soak up the sun. Five different trails can be found in the park, ranging from one to three miles. The trail winds through oak forests, and in the spring, countless wildflowers can be seen all along the trail. For a quick trip into nature, be sure to check out Oak Forest Trail!
The Most Beautiful River In South Dakota
The majestic, 2,341-mile-long Missouri River winds its way through much of South Dakota, and is easily the state's most beautiful river. Lewis and Clark once followed the iconic river during their expedition; today, the river is available for boating, fishing, and tubing, making it a popular and fun destination for those looking to get outside and closer to the water. If you are looking for more than a day trip, there are many riverside hotels, cabins, and campsites all of which are perfect to turn your adventure into a long weekend! If you are looking for a beautiful river in South Dakota, look no further than the Missouri River!
The Most Scenic Mountain In South Dakota
Although Bear Butte is only 4,426 feet tall, from its peak, you can see into four states! Many Native Americans consider the mountain sacred ground, and artifacts from almost 10,000 years ago have been unearthed at Bear Butte. In addition to its natural beauty, Bear Butte once served as a landmark for gold prospectors, and has campgrounds for those looking to extend their visit to this majestic mountain. Bear Butte is a must-see for South Dakota nature lovers!
The Most Unique Garden In South Dakota
The McCory Gardens are located on South Dakota State University's campus, and actually contain a total hidden gem (pun intended): a rock garden! The rock garden features 100 tons of quartzite rock and a small waterfall, making it a relaxing place to go for a morning or afternoon walk. In addition to the rock garden, towering trees and a bounty of beautiful blooms call McCory Gardens home.
