Rapid City

The City of Presidents

Rapid City, South Dakota is a vibrant and charming city nestled in the heart of the Black Hills. With friendly locals, rich cultural history, and access to some of the region's most iconic natural features, it's no wonder that it's a top travel destination.

Attractions

Attractions

Explore the numerous parks and attractions in and around Rapid City, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the vast wilderness of the Black Hills National Forest.

Experience the charm of Rapid City, South Dakota with the City View Trolley Tour. Enjoy an enchanting ride to historic buildings and quirky sites, while expert guides entertain and educate you with fascinating tales.

Culture

Culture

Discover the eclectic mix of art and culture in downtown Rapid City, from ever-evolving murals in Art Alley to the bronze replicas of American Presidents at the City of Presidents exhibit, all while immersing yourself in the area's rich cultural heritage.

Outdoor Adventure

Outdoor Adventure

Get outside and enjoy the beautiful natural landscape of the Black Hills by hiking and biking through city paths or the iconic M Hill.

Food and Drink

Food and Drink

Discover the delicious cuisine and craft beverages that Rapid City and the surrounding area have to offer.

Do Big Things in Downtown Rapid City

Do Big Things in Downtown Rapid City

Looking for an unforgettable experience in Rapid City? Look no further than downtown. With its unique blend of local culture, history, entertainment, and dining, there's something for everyone.

Grand River National Grassland

Rich in Cultural Heritage

The Grand River National Grassland is comprised of 155,000 acres and is located in northwestern South Dakota near the state border with North Dakota. The Grassland is characterized by rolling hills, river breaks and some badland-type areas, dominated by mixed grass prairie. The north and south forks of the Grand River dissect the land unit, drain into Shadehill Reservoir and then flow easterly to the Missouri River.

The Grand River Grassland is also rich in cultural heritage. In the past it served as a hunting ground for the nomadic Plains Indian tribes. Tipi rings and remnants of campfires are scattered across the prairie. The early trappers such as Jim Bridger and Hugh Glass visited this area. General Custer and his troops traveled through the area on their expeditions to the Black Hills. In the early 1900s, the area was settled by European immigrants under the Homestead Act. In the 1930s a severe drought along with high winds turned the area into a “Dust Bowl.” This time was known as the Great Depression and many of the settlers experienced great financial hardships. Under the Agricultural Adjustment Act, the government purchased failed homesteads in order to minimize the economic hardships. These purchased lands were consolidated and rehabilitated and the administration was transferred to the Forest Service and formally designated the Grand River National Grassland in 1960.

The National Grasslands are managed for multiple use and cattle grazing is a significant activity. Livestock grazing contributes to maintaining the local rural economy and helps maintain economically viable ranching operations for over 115 ranches.

Rocky Point State Recreation Area

Outdoor Fun & Relaxation

Rocky Point State Recreation Area offers year-round outdoor fun and relaxation for everyone. This beautiful area is located on the eastern shore of Belle Fourche Reservoir and provides visitors with incredible scenic views and ample opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking.

Camping

Set up camp and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the park. With 87 camping pads, including electrical hookups and barebones tent sites, visitors can have a fantastic camping experience.

Belle Fourche Reservoir

Take a dip or test your angling skills at Belle Fourche Reservoir, known for producing some of the best walleye and smallmouth bass fishing in the area. Launch a boat or cast a line off the shore and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Hiking

Get outside and explore the park's many hiking trails. From easy, family-friendly hiking to more challenging trails, Rocky Point State Recreation Area offers something for everyone. Take in the beautiful scenery and experience the great outdoors.

Water Sports

Enjoy a day on the water with kayaking or paddleboarding. Rent paddleboards or kayaks at the beach and enjoy the beautiful Belle Fourche Reservoir.

Take a break and enjoy the beautiful scenery and year-round recreational opportunities that await you at Rocky Point State Recreation Area.

Shadehill State Recreation Area

Experience the Great Outdoors

Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Shadehill State Recreation Area offers year-round outdoor recreational activities for everyone. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the water and surrounding scenery, explore unique geological formations, and take part in numerous activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.

Shadehill Reservoir

Shadehill Reservoir

Located on the Grand River, Shadehill Reservoir offers visitors the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the Black Hills while enjoying their favorite water sports activities. From fishing to boating and swimming, visitors can spend hours on the water and take in the stunning scenery around them.

Camping

Camping

With options for RV camping, as well as lakeside campsites and cabins, Shadehill State Recreation Area provides the perfect opportunity to experience the great outdoors while enjoying modern amenities. Guests can enjoy everything from fire pits and Wi-Fi access to modern bathhouses and playgrounds.

Hiking: Take a hike or walk along the many trails in the park and explore the beautiful natural surroundings of Shadehill State Recreation Area. Whether visitors are looking for a serene nature walk or a more challenging hike, Shadehill has plenty to offer.

Wildlife Watching

Observe the park's native wildlife, including eagles, coyotes, deer, and pheasants. The area is also home to a variety of fish species, such as walleye, catfish, and bass. You might even see a lone bison wandering around the park on occasion.

Plan a visit to Shadehill State Recreation Area for a unique experience that offers something for everyone. With year-round outdoor recreational activities and breathtaking scenery, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable time at this beautiful Black Hills destination.

Custer National Forest

Breathtaking Views

Custer National Forest is a natural wonderland that offers visitors unparalleled access to the beauty and diversity of the Black Hills. With an incredible array of activities, from hiking to fishing to biking, visitors to this area can experience the natural beauty and excitement of the Black Hills up close.

Hiking

Hiking

Explore the vast wilderness by hiking one of its many trails. From easy day hikes to challenging backcountry treks, the forest offers something for everyone, with breathtaking views and abundant wildlife around every corner.

Fishing

Fishing

Cast a line in crystal clear streams and rivers - considered some of the best fishing spots in the Dakotas. With rainbow and brown trout, northern pike, and other species abundant in the clear mountain water, the forest is paradise for anglers.

Scenic Drives

Scenic Drives

Take in the breathtaking beauty of the Black Hills with a scenic drive. The forest is home to several picturesque drives, including the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway and the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife Viewing

Observe the wildlife that calls the forest its home, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and a variety of smaller animals. Keep your eyes peeled while hiking or participating in other outdoor activities, and you may be rewarded with a glimpse of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Custer National Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With its stunning natural beauty, abundance of activities, and diverse array of wildlife, it's the perfect place for a unique and unforgettable adventure. Start planning your trip today and experience everything that Custer National Forest has to offer.

Buffalo Gap National Grassland

Wide Open Spaces

Buffalo Gap National Grassland is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape into the great outdoors and reconnect with nature. This vast grassland covers over 600,000 acres and offers visitors stunning scenery, endless recreational activities, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Scenic Drives

Drive through the grasslands and enjoy the stunning panoramic views. Visitors can take the Badlands Loop Road, Highway 240, or the Sage Creek Rim Road for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking

Explore the grasslands on foot and take in the natural beauty. With trails ranging in length and difficulty, visitors can hike through serene prairies, rugged canyons, and rolling hills.

Camping

Set up camp and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the grasslands. With several campsites available, visitors can stay overnight and enjoy a fantastic camping experience.

Wildlife Viewing

Observe the grassland's native wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, mule deer, coyotes, and various bird species. Stay alert and quiet and bring a pair of binoculars to fully appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife diversity of the grassland.

Buffalo Gap National Grassland is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature's tranquility. With endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, visitors can enjoy a unique experience that will leave them with lasting memories.

Angostura State Recreation Area

Beautiful & Tranquil

Angostura State Recreation Area is a beautiful and tranquil destination located just a few miles from historic Hot Springs. This popular natural retreat offers year-round recreation opportunities for visitors, including fishing, swimming, boating, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Water Recreation

Water Recreation

Go fishing, swimming, or boating on the magnificent 4,000-acre Angostura Reservoir. The reservoir has several boat launch sites, and boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards can be rented from the park's marina.

Hiking

Explore the park's hiking trails and soak in the stunning landscape of the Black Hills. With numerous trails available, from easy family-friendly walks to more challenging hikes, visitors can experience the beauty of the area while surrounded by unique rock formations, prairies, and forested areas.

Camping

With 129 campsites, both standard and electric, visitors can choose from a variety of camping experiences. There are also several group camping areas that can accommodate a large number of people.

Wildlife Viewing

Observe the park's diverse wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, and pronghorns in their natural habitat. The park is also a popular destination for birdwatching enthusiasts due to the diverse bird species that inhabit the area.

Angostura State Recreation Area is a majestic and peaceful natural retreat that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Plan a visit today and discover a wide variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Bear Butte State Park

Spiritual and Cultural

This geological formation is one of several intrusions of igneous rock in the Black Hills that formed millions of years ago. From the 4,426 foot summit, you can view four states. Bear Butte State Park is considered a sacred site to the Lakota and a unique natural landmark in the Black Hills. The park's namesake, Mato Paha or “Bear Mountain” is the Lakota name given to Bear Butte State Park. The mountain a towering formation that rises 1,200 feet above the surrounding prairie and offers breathtaking views of the region.

Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Explore the park's natural beauty on its 9 miles of hiking trails. From easy walks to challenging hikes, the trails offer something for everyone. Enjoy stunning views of Bear Butte, the Black Hills, and the surrounding prairies.

Scenic Views

Scenic Views

Take in the panoramic views of Bear Butte and the surrounding landscapes from different viewpoints. With its unique geology and location, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Black Hills and the surrounding plains that stretch for miles.

Picnicking

Enjoy a meal while surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Black Hills. Bear Butte State Park offers several picnic areas, including the North and South Pavilions, which provide stunning views of Bear Butte and the surrounding area.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance

Learn about the cultural and spiritual significance of Bear Butte to Native American tribes. Several indigenous tribes consider Bear Butte to be a sacred site, and visitors can learn more about the area's history and significance at the park's visitor center.

Bear Butte State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of the Black Hills region. With its stunning natural landscapes, unique cultural significance, and diverse array of activities, this park offers something for visitors of all ages and interests.

Roughlock Falls Nature Area

Serene & Picturesque

Roughlock Falls Nature Area is a serene and picturesque spot located in the northern Black Hills, just a short drive from Spearfish. This tranquil oasis features a stunning waterfall and an abundance of natural beauty, offering visitors the chance to escape into nature and experience the beauty of the Black Hills.

The Falls

Take in the beauty of Roughlock Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades over a series of rocks and boulders amid the lush greenery of the surrounding forest. With a bridge situated to glimpse the top.

Hiking

Hiking

Enjoy the natural surroundings with a hike through Roughlock Falls Nature Area. With several miles of hiking trails that take visitors through the woods and offer sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, this nature preserve is an ideal location for hiking, nature walks and bird watching.

Photography

Photography

With its lush greenery and stunning waterfall, Roughlock Falls Nature Area is a haven for photographers of all skill levels. Capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape, including the waterfall itself, as well as the vibrant flora and fauna that can be found throughout the park.

Picnicking and Relaxation

Take a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by the beauty and serenity of nature. Roughlock Falls Nature Area offers several picnic areas where you can dine al fresco or simply relax and enjoy the sounds of the wilderness.

Whether you're an avid nature enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Roughlock Falls Nature Area offers something for visitors of all ages. Plan a visit today and experience the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem in the northern Black Hills.

Wind Cave National Park

Discover Two Parks in One

Wind Cave National Park is a unique destination that offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of the longest and most complex caves in the world, as well as prairies, forests, and an abundance of wildlife. With its diverse array of experiences and stunning natural beauty, this national park provides visitors with endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Cave Tours

Cave Tours

Explore the awe-inspiring beauty of Wind Cave, one of the most complex and unique caves in the world. Choose from a variety of guided tours that provide insight into the park's geologic history, as well as stunning views of its underground formations.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife Viewing

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Wind Cave National Park by observing the park's diverse array of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, elk, coyotes, and prairie dogs. With over 30,000 acres of grasslands, forests, and canyons, the park is a haven for wildlife and provides opportunities for visitors to observe and learn more about these magnificent creatures.

Hiking

Hiking

Experience the park's outstanding beauty and natural scenery on one of its stunning hiking trails. With over 30 miles of trails available, visitors can take their time exploring the cave's unique geologic formations or enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Black Hills.

Cultural Experiences

Discover the park's rich cultural history by visiting the park's historic structures, such as the Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center and the Alkali Ridge Historic District. Visitors can learn about the area's rich history and the cultural significance of the cave and its surroundings.

Whether you're seeking an underground adventure or looking to explore the natural beauty of the Black Hills, Wind Cave National Park offers something for everyone. Plan a trip today and experience the stunning beauty and natural wonders of one of America's most unique national parks.