18 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in South Dakota

1. Custer State Park

• Location: Black Hills region of the southwestern part of the state (around 30 miles southwest of Rapid City)
• Wildlife: bison, antelope, mountain goats, elk, coyotes, bighorn sheep, wild turkeys, and prairie dogs
• Location Map
• Custer State Park Website

My favorite highlights…

• Going on the fun two hour Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour – I loved bumping over dusty trails, hearing the grunts of the shaggy bison up close, and listening to our guide’s interesting stories about the park’s wild history!

2. Deadwood

I found this historic Gold Rush town (which dates back to 1874) to be a fascinating blend of immaculately preserved Wild West architecture, cobblestone streets, and a lively mountain setting—it felt like history had come to life, but with a fun, welcoming vibe too!

Having watched every episode of the HBO series Deadwood, it was especially thrilling for me to walk in the footsteps of Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and Seth Bullock! After a 1.5-hour drive north from Custer State Park through the winding Black Hills.

I spent two days exploring—touring the lively Old Town, browsing the interesting Adams Museum, visiting the atmospheric Mount Moriah Cemetery, dining at the rustic-chic Jacobs Brewhouse & Grocer, sampling craft beers at local breweries, and hiking the nearby short and family-friendly Friendship Tower Trail.

I personally loved the quirky Old Brothel, the whiskey-soaked Saloon #10, the lively Wild West shows, and even taking a spin at the roulette wheel at the Midnight Star Casino! I have to admit though the main street did feel a little touristy, but it was still very enjoyable!

• Location: Western South Dakota, in the northern Black Hills (1.5 hours northwest of Custer State Park)
• Location Map
• Wildlife: mule deer, wild turkeys, songbirds in the surrounding Black Hills
• Historic Deadwood Website

My favorite highlights… 

• Staying at the characterful Celebrity Boutique Hotel – I loved the quirky themed decor, Victorian vintage vibe and my hearty breakfast of Black Hills mushroom and garden herb scramble and wild prairie mint tea!

3. Pinnacles, the Badlands National Park

I thought this protected surreal landscape was a dramatically Insta-worthy place —the jagged buttes, colorful pinnacles, and deep gorges glowed in shades of pink, orange, and purple, creating a landscape that felt both tranquil and otherworldly!

From Deadwood, I drove 2.5 hours east and stopped at the Pinnacles Overlook before settling in for three nights at the rustic-chic Badlands Frontier Cabins. I hiked the park’s awe-inspiring trails, snapped the sculpted rock formations, spotted wandering bighorn sheep and spent hours just soaking up the breathtaking views.

• Location: Southwestern South Dakota, near the town of Interior (2.5 hours east of Deadwood)
• Location Map
• Size: around 244,000 acres
• Wildlife: bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, bison, black-footed ferrets, golden eagles
• Badlands National Park Website

My highlights…

• Hiking the 1.5-mile Notch Trail for an hour along dusty canyons and narrow ledges – I loved climbing the hair-raising wooden ladder that creaked underfoot before opening up to Insta-worthy views of the jagged cliffs and shimmering White River Valley!

4. Mount Rushmore National Monument

This world-famous mountain carving was a jaw-dropping place – I loved its majestic beauty, with the colossal faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into the granite mountain and framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Black Hills. Each sculpture was so detailed, an incredible tribute to their role in shaping the nation!

From the Badlands, I drove 1.5 hours west and spent an afternoon here, taking in close-up views of the carvings, exploring the visitor center and Sculptor’s Studio to learn about Gutzon Borglum’s vision, hiking the Presidential Trail, and ending the day at the evening lighting ceremony, complete with stirring speeches, patriotic music, and a moving film about the monument’s history.

• Location: Southwestern part of the state, in the central Black Hills (5 miles from Keystone)
• Location Map
• Size: 1,278 acres and the faces of the president stands at 60 feet tall.
• Wildlife: mountain goats, mule deer, chipmunks, swallows nesting on cliffs
• Mount Rushmore Monument Website

My highlights… 

• Stopping by the cozy, rustic-chic Tally’s Silver Spoon (a 30-minute drive away), I loved the quirky vintage details, and the menu filled with regionally grown produce – especially the silky and slightly peppery arugula pudding!

5. Sylvan Lake

This beautiful lake was one of the most pristine and serene hidden gems I visited on my road trip —I loved its shimmering, clear waters which wonderfully reflected the surrounding granite cliffs and pine forests, it felt both peaceful and picturesque!

Just 40 minutes southwest of Mount Rushmore, I set up camp for two nights at Game Lodge Campground in Custer State Park—complete with modern facilities—and filled my days paddling and kayaking on Sylvan Lake, hiking its pine-fringed trails, picnicking on silent shores, snapping endless photos, and watching brave climbers scale the sheer Inner Outlet. Swimmers should know though that the water is cold—it even was on my summer stop! 

• Location: Southwestern South Dakota, in Custer State Park (10 miles from the town of Custer)
• Wildlife: black bears, bison, pronghorn antelope, deer, wild turkeys and coyotes
• Location Map
• Wildlife: black bears, bison, pronghorn, deer, coyotes, wild turkeys

My personal highlights…

• Stopping by the quirky roadside Cosmos Mystery Area (a 40 minute drive away) which was filled with tilted houses and optical illusions – I especially liked the eerie yet giggle-inducing vibe!

6. Crazy Horse Memorial 

The world’s largest ongoing mountain carving was a huge stand-out on my trip! I was awed by its sheer scale, intricate artistry, and the way it honored Native American heritage against the dramatic Black Hills backdrop. To me it felt spiritual, and even more powerful in real life than I had imagined.

Just a 20-minute drive south from Sylvan Lake, I spent an afternoon here exploring the expansive grounds, learning from the informative museum and visitor center exhibits, taking in the Instagram-worthy views of both the monument and surrounding hills, and watching the fascinating (and still ongoing) carving process of what is still the largest stone sculpture in the world—a project that, to me, beautifully symbolized hope and determination for Native communities.

• Location: Southwestern South Dakota, in the Black Hills (10 miles from Custer)
• Location Map
• Size: 563 feet long and 641 feet high
• Wildlife: deer, elk, bald eagles, wild turkeys in the surrounding hills
• Crazy Horse Memorial Website

My favorite highlights… 

• Dining at the rustic-chic Laughing Water Restaurant, I sat by the window with a stunning view of the Crazy Horse Memorial while devouring warm, pillowy Indian fry bread with rich, seasoned beans!

7. Needles Highway

This scenic drive was one of the most breathtaking journeys on my trip—its narrow, winding 14 miles cut through dense Black Hills forest and opened onto jagged granite spires that felt both exhilarating and serene. I especially loved how the dramatic Cathedral Spires towered above the road, a view that made me literally stop so I could take it all in!

From Crazy Horse, I looped back into Custer State Park to drive it, spending an afternoon gazing at needle-like pinnacles, pulling over at scenic viewpoints, wandering short hiking trails, and squeezing through one-lane rock tunnels. I have to admit though, the road was very narrow and twisty, so it was a little nerve-wracking to drive in points!

• Location: Southwestern part of the state, in the Black Hills (30 miles southwest of Rapid City). Starts near the junction of US Highway 16A (Iron Mountain Road) and SD Highway 87 and ends at Sylvan Lake
• Location Map
• Wildlife: bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, wild turkeys, coyotes

My personal highlights…

• Stopping at the Needles Highway Scenic Overlook – I was quietly in awe of the road snaking through those jaw-dropping granite spires with the crisp pine-scented air and dark spruce forests spread out below—it all felt a little otherworldly!

8. Keystone 

I thought this quirky Black Hills town was a real gem of a place—its mix of quaint historic architecture, little shops and cafés, and dramatic Black Hills scenery (with Mount Rushmore just 5 miles away) made it feel both charming and beautifully situated.

From the Needles Highway, I drove 30 minutes north and stayed two days at the rustic-chic K Bar S Lodge, soaking up the friendly, community feel alongside the lively buzz of a tourist hub. I toured the fun Big Thunder Gold Mine, rode the family-friendly Keystone Tramway and the authentic 1880 steam train, browsed the Historical Museum, hiked nearby trails, gazed at the historic locomotives at the 1880 Train Depot, and explored the town’s eclectic shops and classic eateries.

• Location: Southwestern part of the state, in the Black Hills (30 miles southwest of Rapid City)
• Location Map
• Population size: around 240 residents
• Wildlife: white-tailed deer, songbirds, wild turkeys, red squirrels in the nearby hills

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the Big Thunder Gold Mine – I wandered through the cool, dim tunnels lined with timber beams and quartz veins before panning for shiny gold in the icy creek water!

9. Black Hills National Forest 

Sprawling across the Black Hills, this immense forest really won me over with its mix of quiet pine woods, craggy peaks, rushing streams, and striking rock formations—it felt peaceful yet full of adventure!

Only 30 minutes west of Keystone, I spent two days exploring—trekking scenic trails, cruising the rustic Iron Mountain Road, paddling across the clear waters of Pactola Lake, and watching climbers scale the granite of Harmon Peak while wildlife moved quietly around me. I also liked how easy it was to take breaks, with cafés, restaurants, museums, a local winery, and even a family-friendly train ride scattered throughout the picturesque area!

• Location: Western South Dakota, sprawling across the Black Hills (near Hill City)
• Location Map
• Wildlife: elk, deer, mountain lions, coyotes, black bears, wild turkeys
• Black Hill National Forest Website

My highlights…

• Staying at the dreamy upscale Summer Creek Inn – it was an awesome moment to sip on a tangy-sweet buffaloberry wine from my patio hot tub overlooking the garden waterfall!

10. Falls Park, Sioux Falls

This city park was one of the prettiest spots on my trip – I loved the way its waterfalls tumbled dramatically over granite cliffs and how it was surrounded by gorgeous greenery and peaceful walking paths, which made it feel both refreshing and serene!

After the long 5.5-hour drive east from the Black Hills, I spent a day here strolling the attractive trails, climbing the five-story observation tower and seeing awesome panoramic views, exploring the ruins of the historic Queen Bee Mill, picnicking in the grassy parkland, checking out the interesting exhibits in the visitor center, and browsing the lively Saturday Farmers Market held right in the park.

• Location: Eastern South Dakota, in the city of Sioux Falls
• Location Map
• Wildlife: ducks, geese, herons, songbirds, red foxes
• Falls Park Website

My highlights…

• Visiting the park’s Farmer’s Market – I ended up buying a golden, flaky Original Corn Pie stuffed with South Dakota corn, and locally grown zucchinis, bell peppers and dill washed down with a tangy raspberry-rose kombucha from Songbird!

11. Notch Trail, Badlands National Park

This short but adventurous trail was one of my favorite hikes in the state—I was hooked by its adventurous vibe and the stunning views over jagged cliffs, deep canyons, and the wide White River Valley.

From Sioux Falls, I drove 4 hours west back into Badlands National Park and camped at Cedar Pass Campground before tackling the 1.5-mile trail. It took me about two hours to complete, with steep sections, uneven terrain, and even a ladder climb to the top, where the panoramas were absolutely breathtaking. I also enjoyed the camaraderie of meeting friendly fellow hikers along the way, which made the experience even more memorable.

• Location: Southwestern part of the state, in the Cedar Pass area of Badlands National Park
• Location Map
• Wildlife: prairie dogs, rattlesnakes, bighorn sheep, golden eagles
• Badlands National Park Website

My personal highlights… 

• Taking the Badlands National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour, I cruised past jagged spires and rainbow-striped buttes while the narration pointed out bison wallows, interesting fossil beds, and the rugged Notch Trail—as the faint hay-like aroma of sweet prairie grasses wafted through through my open window!

12. Lake Herman

This peaceful lake struck me as one of the prettiest and most soothing destinations on my road trip—its clear waters, sandy beach, and backdrop of rolling emerald hills made it feel like a peaceful retreat where I really unwound to the sound of gentle waves.

From the Badlands, I drove 3.5 hours southeast to Madison and spent three relaxing days camping at Lake Herman State Park. I swam and kayaked on the lake, boated along its calm waters, picnicked by the shoreline, hiked nearby trails, and spotted local wildlife, all while soaking up the restful setting.

• Location: southeastern part of the state, an hour’s north of Sioux Falls, (and around 5 miles from the town of Madison)
• Location Map
• Size: around 1,000 acres
• Wildlife: waterfowl, shorebirds, white-tailed deer, squirrels, and bald eagles
• Lake Herman State Park Website

My personal highlights…

• Also camping overnight at the award-winning, hipster-friendly Uncle B’s Produce Farm, I soaked up the laid-back vibe—wandering shady trails by a lily-dotted pond, petting curious Oberhasli goats and clucking Leghorn hens, and ending the night swapping stories with fellow campers around a crackling fire!

13. Lewis and Clark Recreation Area

This family-friendly park really charmed me with its rolling hills, deep green leafy forests, and the sparkling Missouri River—it had such a welcoming, community vibe!

From Lake Herman, I drove 2.5 hours south to Yankton and spent three days here, staying in the park and taking advantage of its many amenities – I found campgrounds and cabins to sandy beaches, trails, and even a family-friendly lodge resort. I hiked the easy Gavins Point Nature Trail, boated along the recreational Missouri River, enjoyed lazy picnics in the shaded areas, and spotted plenty of local wildlife!

• Location: Southeastern part of the state, near Yankton on the Missouri River
• Location Map
• Size: around 1,600 acres
• Wildlife: herons, eagles, white-tailed deer, squirrels, wild turkeys
• Lewis and Clark Recreation Area Website

My personal highlights…

• Stopping at the Dismal Nitch, a tiny cove where waves lapped gently against driftwood and the salty air carried gull cries— it was very hard for me to imagine this tranquil refuge being the place where Lewis and Clark huddled through a fierce storm!

14. Roughlock Falls

This picturesque waterfall made a refreshing but low-key stop—the cascade tumbling over rugged rock formations, framed by glistening greenery, and silver birches, created a zen-like, rejuvenating setting where the sound of rushing water made it all feel pretty enchanting.

From Yankton, I drove 5.5 hours northwest into the Black Hills and stayed two nights at the nearby upscale Spearfish Canyon Lodge. I wandered the well-marked trails, paused at overlooks to admire the gently gushing falls, and took long lazy picnics in the canyon.

• Location: Western part of the state, in Spearfish Canyon (10 miles south of Lead)
• Location Map
• Wildlife: songbirds, wild turkeys, mule deer, trout in streams

My highlights…

• I stopped at the nearby Latchstring Inn, a super-cute rustic restaurant tucked along Roughlock Falls Road – I had a great experience sitting at a large window and looking straight out at the pines while gorging on their Canyon Nachos piled high with their the smoky homemade red chili sauce and zesty black bean salsa!

15. Sage Creek Wilderness Area, Badlands National Park

Sage Creek Wilderness felt like one of the wildest, most surreally breathtaking parts of the Badlands—the rugged land, unusual formations, and roaming animals made me feel both completely alone and completely connected.

From Roughlock Falls, I drove 2.5 hours east, picked up a backcountry permit at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, and camped overnight in a designated area. I spent my time hiking breathtaking trails, exploring the otherworldly rock formations, soaking up the vast lunar-like vistas, and spotting wildlife that wandered through this untamed corner of the park. Just a tip – there were no facilities at all here, so it really is true wilderness camping!

• Location: Southwestern part of the state, in the western section of Badlands National Park
• Location Map
• Wildlife: bison, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, bighorn sheep and deer
• Badlands National Park Website

My highlights…

• Spending the night here was incredible—I rose to a glowing prairie sunrise, meadowlarks whistling their sweet, flute-like calls and the feeling of having the Badlands all to myself! 

16. Canyon Lake Park, Rapid City

This tranquil city park in Rapid City charmed me in an understated way with its peaceful lake, pleasant greenery, and leisure facilities—a true little oasis right in the city. I loved its laid-back vibe, where families picnicked, joggers passed by, and birdwatchers sat gazing.

From Sage Creek, I drove 1.5 hours west and spent an afternoon here walking and biking the trails, picnicking by the water, and soaking up the views. I also liked the extra touches—four pretty picnic pavilions, a BBQ area overlooking the lake, a children’s playground, a sand volleyball court, and even paddle-boat rentals.

• Location: Western South Dakota, in the center of Rapid City
• Location Map
• Size: around 90 acres
• Wildlife: mallards, great blue herons, red-tailed hawks, geese
• Canyon Lake Park Website

My personal highlights…

• Stopping for lunch at the nearby cozy-modern Tally’s Silver Spoon (which was just a 10 minute drive away) – I opted for the herb-infused Mushroom D’Jour which came with earthy wild morels and thyme washed down with a creative Huckleberry Mint Mimosa! 

17. Spirit Mound Historic Prairie

This sacred Native American site was a unique natural attraction — rising 150 feet above the prairie, it carried a sense of peace and cultural significance, and was once considered sacred by local tribes. I found out that it was nothing really flashy, just quietly beautiful with its rolling hills and tallgrass prairies.

After a five-hour drive southeast from Rapid City to Vermillion, I filled my afternoon hiking the trails, enjoying the views from the summit, and picking up interesting bits of history from the signs along the way!

• Location: Southeastern South Dakota, near Vermillion (7 miles southwest)
• Location Map
• Size: around 320 acres
• Wildlife: meadowlarks, hawks, prairie dogs, butterflies in summer
• Spirit Mound Historic Prairie

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the easy 1.4-mile Spirit Mound Trail in 30 minutes, through tallgrass prairie where bluestem rustled, goldenrod glowed, and meadowlarks sang, stopping at Lewis and Clark signs before the summit opened up to incredible Missouri River Valley views! 

18. Wonderland Cave, Sturgis

This ancient cave really impressed me—believed to be around 100 million years old, its huge limestone chambers glittered with crystals, stalactites, stalagmites, and even delicate helictites, making it feel both mystical and awe-inspiring at the same time!

From Spirit Mound, I drove 5.5 hours back northwest into the Black Hills, and it was a fitting finale to my road trip loop. Discovered in 1929, the cave struck me as tranquil and almost otherworldly, and I spent an afternoon on a guided tour learning all about its fascinating geology and history in this family-friendly attraction.

• Location: Western part of the state, in the Black Hills (10 miles from Sturgis near Nemo)
• Location Map
• Wildlife: bats, cave crickets, swallows near the entrance, deer in surrounding forest
• Wonderland Cave Website

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the gift shop for interesting souvenirs and cave-inspired mementos – I especially loved the novelty edible rocks (that looked real), the grenade hot sauce, the cute bat plushies and polished Black Hills agate coasters.