South Dakota Bucket List: 37 Best Things To Do in South Dakota This Summer

South Dakota should be at the top of your travel list if you’re seeking a destination teeming with natural wonder.

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“The Mount Rushmore State” offers endless opportunities for adventure, from exploring awe-inspiring caves and parks to admiring breathtaking waterfall views – and it doesn’t stop there!

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The Best Things To Do in South Dakota

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In 1903, Theodore Roosevelt officially established Wind Cave as the eighth national park in the United States, making it the first cave to receive national protection. Two brothers initially discovered the area in 1881 when they noticed a whistle coming from its natural entrance.

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2. Badlands National Park

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Self-Guided Tours

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3. Custer State Park

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South Dakota Bucket List: 37 Best Things To Do in South Dakota This Summer

South Dakota should be at the top of your travel list if you’re seeking a destination teeming with natural wonder.

“The Mount Rushmore State” offers endless opportunities for adventure, from exploring awe-inspiring caves and parks to admiring breathtaking waterfall views – and it doesn’t stop there!

The Best Things To Do in South Dakota

In 1903, Theodore Roosevelt officially established Wind Cave as the eighth national park in the United States, making it the first cave to receive national protection. Two brothers initially discovered the area in 1881 when they noticed a whistle coming from its natural entrance.

1. Wind Cave National Park

2. Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park hosts the largest undisturbed mixed grass prairie in the US and is fully designated as wilderness – meaning you will enjoy the natural scenery and wildlife when exploring this authentic Wild West wonderland.

Self-Guided Tours

In addition to its prairies, Badlands National Park is known for its labyrinth of spires, canyons, buttes, and pinnacles that formed over the course of 75 million years.

3. Custer State Park

Custer State Park is a true gem among South Dakota’s “Great 8 Iconic Landmarks.” Sprawling across 71,000 acres, this park offers unparalleled opportunities to take in the captivating beauty of the surrounding terrain.

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Find out the rest of the best things to do in South Dakota this summer!

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