1. Custer State Park
I thought this sprawling Custer State Park was a wonderful gem —its mix of pine-covered hills, imposing granite peaks, and free-roaming bison gave it a raw, untamed beauty that felt straight out of the Old West.
I began my South Dakota trip here with four nights at the cool and quirky Bavarian Inn, driving the breathtaking Needles Highway and Wildlife Loop, hiking and biking the trails past towering granite spires, kayaking on mirror-like lakes, and taking long picnics on the idyllic, sun-streaked shores.
Location: Black Hills region, southwestern South Dakota | Size: ~71,000 acres | Vibe: wild and cinematic | Wildlife: bison, antelope, mountain goats, elk, coyotes, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs
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 thought Deadwood was such a cool place to explore! This historic Gold Rush town dates back to 1874 and still feels straight out of the Wild West, with beautifully preserved wooden storefronts, cobblestone streets, and a mountain backdrop. Having watched the HBO series Deadwood, it was pretty surreal wandering the same streets as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane!
After a 1.5-hour drive north from Custer State Park, I spent two days exploring the lively Old Town, discovering the atmospheric Mount Moriah Cemetery, and dining at the rustic-chic Jacobs Brewhouse & Grocer. I was a big fan of the quirky Old Brothel and the whiskey-soaked Saloon #10, and although it did feel a little touristy at times, it was still a really fun stop!
Location: Northern Black Hills, western South Dakota | Size: small town | Vibe: gritty-glam and atmospheric
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 the Badlands National Park 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: Western section of Badlands National Park, southwestern South Dakota | Size: around 244,000 acres | Vibe: otherworldly, windswept, and awe-inspiring | Wildlife: bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, bison, black-footed ferrets, golden eagles
My highlights…
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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
The world-famous mountain carving, the Mount Rushmore Monument, was a jaw-dropping place and I was impressed by 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: Black Hills, southwestern South Dakota | Size: 1,278 acres and 60-ft-high carved faces | Vibe: grand, patriotic, and iconic
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: Custer State Park, southwestern South Dakota | Size: 17.3 acres | Vibe: peaceful and surreally-pretty
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 the Crazy Horse Memorial‘s 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: Black Hills, southwestern South Dakota | Size: 563-ft-long, 641-ft-high | Vibe: powerful, cultural, and monumental
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: Scenic byway within Custer State Park, Black Hills, southwestern South Dakota | Size: ~14-miles | Vibe: dramatic, adventurous, and wildly scenic | Joining point: near the junction of US Highway 16A (Iron Mountain Road)
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: Black Hills, southwestern South Dakota | Size: small town | Vibe: lively, Western-themed, and family-friendly
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, the immense Black Hill National 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 | Size: ~1.2 million acres | Vibe: wild with an Old West mountain feel | Wildlife: elk, deer, mountain lions, coyotes, black bears, wild turkeys
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 based Falls 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: Sioux Falls, South Eastern Dakota | Size: ~128-acres | Vibe: laid-back city-meets-nature | Wildlife: ducks, geese, herons, songbirds
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 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 just over five 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: Badlands National Park, southwestern South Dakota | Size: ~1.5-mile round-trip | Vibe: adventurous, dramatic, and slightly daring | Wildlife: prairie dogs, rattlesnakes, bighorn sheep, golden eagles
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 Herman 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: Eastern South Dakota | Size: ~1,350-acres | Vibe: peaceful and nature-focused
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
The family-friendly Lewis and Clark Recreation Area 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: Along the Missouri River, southeastern South Dakota | Size: ~1,000+ acres | Vibe: active, outdoorsy, and family-friendly
My personal highlights…
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Walking along Gavins Point Nature Trail at golden hour, breathing in the sweet earthy scent of rain while a soft chorus of crickets filled the air!
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: Spearfish Canyon, western South Dakota | Size: multi-tiered waterfall | Vibe: serene, romantic, and fairy-tale-pretty
My highlights…
- Stopping at the nearby cozy Latchstring Inn and grabbing a window seat where I could gaze straight out at the whispering pines while devouring their Canyon Nachos — piled high with smoky homemade red chili sauce and zesty black-bean salsa!
15. Sage Creek Wilderness Area
Badlands National Parkfelt 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: Western section of Badlands National Park, southwestern South Dakota | Size: ~64,000 acres | Vibe: remote and untamed | Wildlife: bison, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, bighorn sheep and deer
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!
