South Dakota
Nature|Parks & Gardens

Be Transported To Another World When You Walk Through The Lush And Serene Gardens At The Japanese Gardens In South Dakota

Discover the serene Japanese Gardens in Terrace Park, Sioux Falls, a perfect family-friendly destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Updated Apr 25, 2024

Written by 

Annie

Do you love traveling any chance you get? If so, you'll be thrilled to learn about the Japanese Gardens tucked within Terrace Park in Sioux Falls. These serene gardens in South Dakota are the perfect destination when you'd like to escape and enjoy some serenity. We also think you'll feel like you've been transported to Asia when you visit this lovely Japanese Garden in Sioux Falls. Are you curious to know more? If so, read on to learn about this stunning oasis in the heart of South Dakota.

You'll find the Japanese Garden in Sioux Falls in Terrace Park. This popular family-friendly destination is home to everything from pools to basketball and tennis courts. Visitors are welcome to fish or stroll along a walking trail too.

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Google/David DeBates

In addition to all the available activities, Terrace Park boasts the stunning and serene Japanese Gardens!

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Wikipedia/Jerry

These Japanese Gardens in South Dakota span over two acres. They're a colorful outdoor oasis that features a beautiful landscape that'll make you forget that you're in South Dakota. There's also a winding path that is perfect for an afternoon stroll.

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Google/Cory Luther

Whether you are out and about with your family or looking for a quiet place to meditate, you will find it at these stunning gardens in South Dakota. Some highlights of this impressive Japanese Garden in Sioux Falls include the quartzite stone pagodas, lanterns, seating areas, and meditation shelters.

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Google/Larry Houtchens

While strolling through these lovely gardens, you will also discover an assortment of fragrant blooms ranging from cherry blossoms to various trees and shrubs.

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Google/Chris Cook

We think the tranquil waterfall and unique stone sculptures are two more reasons to love these special Japanese Gardens in South Dakota.

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Of course, the special setting makes these Japanese Gardens in Sioux Falls perfect for a date or family outing.

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Google/Cory Luther

Lucky for you, both Terrace Park and the Japanese Gardens are open every day, from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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Google/Larry Houtchens

Let us know if you've had the chance to visit these Japanese Gardens in South Dakota in the following comments section. And, if you're planning to go, take a look at the Terrace Park website before setting out on your adventure.

When you are ready to explore some more, we also suggest checking out these gardens in South Dakota. We recommend AllTrails for ideas of where to find hikes in South Dakota with wildflowers and epic views.

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Nature|Parks & Gardens

6 Pristine Hidden Beaches Throughout South Dakota You’ve Got To Visit This Summer

Discover six hidden beaches in South Dakota perfect for a tropical getaway without the high cost.

Updated Jun 28, 2024

Written by 

Annie

Beaches? Does South Dakota have a beach? South Dakota is known both near and far for its landmarks, camping, and other outdoor recreational opportunities, but did you know that the Mount Rushmore State is also home to several can't-miss beaches? It's true! If you crave a little tropical getaway without the expensive price tag, check out one (or all!) of these six pristine beaches in South Dakota!

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1. Sylvan Lake - Custer County

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Trip Advisor/georgiatn

Whether you dream of napping on the warm sand or splashing around in the cool water, there is no better place to be than Sylvan Lake! Located inside of Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake came to be in 1881 after a dam was built across the nearby Sunday Gulch, making it one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the Midwest! Visit the official website of Custer State Park for more information.

2. Ravine Lake Park - Huron

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Putters & Scoops Facebook

You say you want to go to easy street? Guess what? Ravine Lake Park is literally located along Easy Street in Huron! In addition to its relaxing name, Ravine Lake Park offers a tranquil experience complete with crystal-clear water, a sandy beach, and the Putters & Scoops ice cream shop. Find more information on Ravine Lake Park.

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3. Brant Lake - Chester

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Arguably the most hidden and little-known of these beaches is the charming Brant Lake in Chester. Featuring everything from swimming and sunning to fishing and boating, Brant Lake is sure to be your one-stop-shop for all things outdoors this summer.

4. Newton Hills State Park - Canton

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Newton Hills State Park Facebook

There is more to the 1,063-acre Newton Hills State Park than just hiking, as evidenced by the gorgeous beach area! In addition to the great swimming, Newton Hills is also home to music festivals and other can't-miss events that are sure to make your visit even more memorable. Here's the official website of Newton Hills State Park.

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5. Angostura and Sheps Canyon Recreation Areas - Hot Springs

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Angostura and Sheps Canyon Recreation Areas Facebook

Everyone knows Hot Springs for Evans Plunge Mineral Springs, Mammoth Site, and Wind Cave, but until you have also taken a dip in the shining Angostura, you have yet to truly experience this wonderful town.

6. Oahe Downstream Recreation Area - Fort Pierre

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Oahe Downstream Recreation Area Facebook

Last but certainly not least on our list of hidden South Dakota beaches is the Oahe Downstream Recreation Area in Fort Pierre, which has one of the largest beach areas in the state! What are you waiting for? Grab your blankets, umbrellas, chairs, and picnic baskets, and we will see you there! Visit the official website of Oahe Downstream Recreation Area for more information.

Which South Dakota beach is your favorite? What do you think are the best beaches in South Dakota? Let us know in the comments! Whichever one you choose, though, be sure to bring sun protection! For even more summertime fun in the Mount Rushmore State, check out these five lazy river summer tubing trips that you may want to start planning right away.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/south-dakota/things-to-do-in-summer-south-dakota/

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Nature|Parks & Gardens

The Hidden Nature Park In South Dakota With Its Very Own Lake, Farmsteads And So Much More

Published Jun 4, 2024

Written by 

Tori Jane

Hidden away in North Sioux City is an amazing place that even locals often overlook. This is unfortunate because here you'll find all kinds of awesome things to do, see, and experience, including some truly jaw-dropping state parks. Lovers of the outdoors will adore a visit to the Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve, an amazing hidden nature park in South Dakota that's sure to become one of your favorites. It's more than just a park; there are trails, a lake, beautiful woodlands, thrilling wildflowers, and so much more. Of all the best things to do outside in South Dakota, this one might be among my top faves.

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Welcome to the Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve - a hidden gem in terms of awesome parks in South Dakota.

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Brian Staab/Google Local

This land (and all the restored buildings on it) was donated to the state of South Dakota back in 1984 by the two granddaughters of the original homesteader who built this place (and called it home).

Today, it's a safe haven for humans and animals alike.

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With nearly ten miles of stunning, limestone trails to explore the entire place on foot by, you can't go wrong; just be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, pack water, and definitely wear your sunscreen!

More than 100 species of birds call this amazing place home.

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Randall Williams/Google Local

Nestled right on the Missouri River, this farmstead is in an ideal place for anyone into birdwatching or nature spotting to kick back, relax, and see what they can see (which is, admittedly a lot).

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Historic buildings that stand in the park are few in number, but mighty in history.

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Phil Patterson/Google Local

You'll find places like the old Lamont Country School, the Brusseau Cabin, and the Stavenger Lutheran Church, among a few others. History comes alive in this amazing place; few things get me going more than history and nature, and this little hotspot's got 'em both.

Popular activities at this hidden park in South Dakota include hiking, biking, wildlife watching, hunting, stargazing, and more.

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Brian Staab/Google Local

You'll want to make a whole day of it if you really want to check out all the awesomeness this park has to offer. It's the Goldilocks of South Dakota's parks: not too big, not too small, but just right.

This awesome South Dakota nature park is open year-round, so come back for every season to really get the full picture of just how splendid this little preserve is.

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Randall Williams/Google Local

For more info, deeper history, and more, be sure to check out the Adams Homestead and State Nature Preserve website. Need some gear before heading into the wonderful outdoors? Check out all the awesomeness offered up by our friends at The North Face. What's your favorite nature park in South Dakota? Tell me about it in the comments!

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