11 Destinations Everyone In South Dakota Needs to Visit This Summer

Summer is just a few weeks away...have you made any exciting plans yet? Don't let the summer of 2017 slip away! Make plans now to visit these 11 South Dakota destinations.

1. Broken Boot Gold Mine: The Tour Through An Old Gold Mine That Will Take You Back In Time

The Broken Boot Gold Mine opened in Deadwood in 1878. The mine closed in 1918, but you can take a tour. You'll see exactly how it was left, and feel like you've taken a step right back in time.

For more information, read our full article here.

2. Big Sioux Recreation Area: A Hidden Destination Only Locals Know About

Big Sioux Recreation Area is just east of Sioux Falls, and it's a great place to spend the day hiking or playing on the river. Drop a line (they even have fishing poles you can check out!) or take a canoe out.

For more information, read our full article here.

3. Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary: The Place That's Like Something Out Of The Wild Wild West

The 11,000 acres of land at the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary allows wild horses to run free, like they did 100 years ago! Take a tour of this beautiful place, and bring your camera.

For more information, read our full article here.

4. Custer State Park

Custer State Park offers 71,000 acres of recreation. Check out the herds of buffalo, go hiking, visit Sylvan Lake and spend the night in one of several campgrounds.

For more information, read our full article here.

5. Lewis and Clark Recreation Area: A Spectacular Spot Where You Can Camp Right On The Beach

You'll find Lewis and Clark Recreation Area near Yankton, on the South Dakota/Nebraska border. You can camp in an RV or tent site, or choose a cozy cabin - you'll be just yards from the beach.

For more information, read our full article here.

6. George S. Mickelson Trail: An Epic Abandoned Railroad Hike

This trail once served as a railroad line from Edgemont to Deadwood. Now it's a 109 mile long trail for hiking, biking and nature viewing. Pick a portion and hike all day!

For more information, read our full article here.

7. Black Elk Peak: A Breathtaking Wild Flower Trail

During summer months, the hills and meadows along this 7.1-mile loop trail are covered in wildflowers. As an added bonus, the views at the peak (7,242 feet) are spectacular.

For more information, read our full article here.

8. Chateau de Soleil: Epic Treehouse Where You Can Sleep Underneath The Forest Canopy

This adorable treehouse is styled to look like a little house in a very popular movie. Can you guess which one? Here's a hint: this thing looks like it came right out of The Shire.

For more information, read our full article here.

9. PaleoAdventures: A Unique Tour You Don't Want To Miss

Did you know that you can take a tour in the Black Hills with paleontologist Walter W. Stein, where he will take you to a real dinosaur excavation site? You can even dig for dinosaur bones.

For more information, read our full article here.

10. Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum: A Secret Garden You’re Guaranteed To Love

This pretty little arboretum is tucked away in Sioux Falls. It's a wonderful place to spend an afternoon wandering through the flowers, sitting on a bench and watching the ducks.

For more information, read our full article here.

11. Spearfish: The Charming Town That's Perfect For A Summer Day Trip

Spearfish is located in the northern portion of the Black Hills National Forest, and it's surrounded by natural beauty. Make sure to plan your trip to include the Downtown Friday Nights events, which offer live music, food and fun.

For more information, read our full article here.

What other places would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments!

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