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South Dakota is a beautiful state full of interesting places and things to do. However, with unpredictable weather and lots of open space, keeping active kids entertained can sometimes be a challenge. Here are some tips and ideas for fun activities to keep your kids busy and happy during a South Dakota visit.
Visit Mount Rushmore
One of South Dakota’s most iconic attractions is Mount Rushmore National Memorial near Keystone. Watching workers carve faces and seeing the presidents’ heads up close is fascinating for kids. Afterward, take a scenic walk on the Presidential Trail, collect a Junior Ranger badge, or join an interactive evening program at the amphitheater.
Explore the Black Hills
The Black Hills region offers plenty of ways to keep active kids engaged. Tour the historic gold mine town of Lead and take in the Homestake Gold Mine overlook. Go hiking, rock climbing, or biking on the extensive trail system. Check out the wildlife and scenic rock formations of Custer State Park or visit the outdoor attractions like Bear Country USA and Reptile Gardens.
See the Badlands
The unique and colorful landscape of Badlands National Park will capture kids’ imaginations as they hike among rock spires and canyons. Let them run and climb on Door Trail or Window Trail, which are shorter and perfect for little legs. Take the Fossil Exhibit Trail to hunt for fossils. Attend a ranger program, view wildlife, and explore the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
Learn About Buffalo
Seeing these magnificent creatures up close is a memorable South Dakota experience. Drive the Wildlife Loop at Custer State Park early in the morning or late afternoon to spot large herds of bison. Or visit the outdoor corrals at Bear Country USA near Rapid City to get really close views of grazing bison. For a more interactive experience, tour the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary near Hot Springs or visit one of the area’s bison ranches.
Go Underground
Exploring the underground caves and caverns of South Dakota energizes kids’ sense of adventure. At Wind Cave National Park, take a cave tour to marvel at the unique boxwork and popcorn formations. Jewel Cave National Monument offers several kid-friendly cave tours and surface hiking trails with wildlife viewing. Or for a more interactive experience, don hard hats and climb through mines at Old Homestake Gold Mine or Big Thunder Gold Mine.
Hit the Water
Swimming, boating and fishing are great ways to keep kids active outdoors. Many area lakes and state parks have beaches and designated swimming areas. Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard and cruise across scenic lakes like Lake Pactola, Angostura Reservoir, and Lewis and Clark Lake. Or drop a fishing line at one of the many well-stocked lakes – there is no license required for kids 15 and under.
Other Attractions
Whatever the weather, an adventure park is always good fun for kids of all ages. Once you’ve seen Mount Rushmore, Check out other Rapid City SD attractions like a jump n slide park, the Journey Museum, and the Reptile Gardens. With spectacular scenery, unique attractions, outdoor adventure, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment, South Dakota offers endless options to keep youngsters smiling, moving, and fully engaged.
