12 Unforgettable South Dakota Day Trips, One for Each Month of the Year

Are you planning on making this the best year ever? Lucky for us South Dakotans, adventures big and small are hiding around every corner, making good times just a short drive away. If you need tips for making your year even more epic, we recommend taking these 12 best day trips in SD for all the good times:

January: Beat the winter blues with a hike around Sheridan Lake

For a hike that is arguably the most beautiful in winter, visit the lovely Sheridan Lake Trail. Located near Keystone and Rockerville, Sheridan Lake is chock-full of incredible Black Hills scenery, plus surprise mining tunnels that you can still explore today. Download the AllTrails+ app for trail maps and information.

February: Shop and stay in Sturgis

You know Sturgis for its famous motorcycle rally, but did you know that it is also a downright charming town? Home to nearly 7,000 residents, there is plenty to do in and around Sturgis, including unique dining and shopping, museums, and outdoor recreational opportunities galore. Want to spend more than a day exploring Sturgs? Book a night or two at The Hotel Stugis for a memorable weekend getaway.

March: Get sprung at the Outdoor Campus in Rapid City

Spring has sprung come mid-March, and there is no better place to take it all in than the Outdoor Campus in Rapid City. Operated by the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks Department, the Outdoor Campus is home to hands-on activities and classes, ponds, and 1.5 miles worth of nature trails.

April: Go camping in Custer State Park

Looking for "day trips near me" that involve the great outdoors? Custer State Park is a stunning natural destination with a variety of camping options to suit different preferences, from more developed campgrounds to rustic, back-to-nature sites. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore the beauty of the Black Hills region in South Dakota.

May: Take in the most colorful time of the year at TuliPalooza

The McCory Gardens are a sight to see year-round, but this Brookings institution manages to come to life even more in May, as it transforms into the colorful TuliPalooza. Taking place every May, TuliPalooza features a whopping 10,000 tulips adorned in vibrant yellows, pinks, and reds. This is one of the best SD trip ideas for the spring.

June: Fly high at the Rushmore Tramway Adventures in Keystone

Do you want to start your summer on a high note? Then why not ride down an exciting zipline, alpine slide, or chair lift? Open late spring through early fall, there is something for everyone to love at Rushmore Tramway, which is also home to obstacle courses, walking trails, and delicious food. This is one of the most unique trips in SD.

July: Take a dip in the Devil's Bathtub

Summertime in the Mount Rushmore State can be downright brutal ... agree? Instead of fighting the crowds at popular pools and water parks, we recommend taking a dip in the Devil's Bathtub. While the name may sound downright dark and gloomy, this swimming hole is anything but and can be found just off the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, and you can follow the Devil's Bathtub Trail to get there.

August: Live like a pioneer at the Ingalls Homestead

One of South Dakota's most beloved residents is Laura Ingalls Wilder, who may have passed away decades ago, but whose legend still lives on in her books and at the Ingalls Homestead in De Smet. During your visit, make plans to take a covered wagon ride, make corn cob dolls and jump ropes, and try your hand at old-fashioned chores.

September: Climb aboard the 1880 Train to see the changing colors

The last time we rode the 1880 Train was around the middle of September, and boy was it beautiful! Beginning in Hill City and ending in Keystone (or vice versa), the historic 1880 Train passes through some of the most pristine land in the Black Hills that manages to get even more beautiful during the fall.

October: Hop in the car for our dreamy Fall Foliage Road Trip

Have you taken our fall color road trip in South Dakota? If you love to see the changing fall colors and cannot get enough of their beautiful hues, there is literally no better drive for you!

November: Give thanks for this great state at Mount Rushmore

November is a great time to count your blessings and give thanks, so what better time to also give thanks for this great state and our most iconic landmarks? Do you need another reason to visit Mount Rushmore in November? Crowds are significantly lower, and parking is plentiful.

December: Enjoy the winter wonderland that is Deadwood

Deadwood, South Dakota is known for its Wild West history and its (now-deceased) colorful original residents, but did you know that it also turns into a real-life winter wonderland every Christmas? To experience this holiday magic for yourself, make plans to attend their memorable Pioneer Festive Fridays, shop around charming downtown, and take in all of the gorgeous light displays. For an overnight stay, consider booking a room at the historic Martin & Mason Hotel.

How lucky are we to live in South Dakota? We have SO many amazing destinations to visit. Whether we're looking for day trips from Bismark, South Dakota, or elsewhere, we're spoiled with choices. Which of these day trips in SD are you most looking forward to taking? If you know of another great day trip destination in the state, you can tell us about it through our nominations page.

We all love waterfalls, right? Next time you're up for chasing waterfalls, follow this waterfall road trip through South Dakota.