South Dakota Travel Guide

South Dakota is a divided in half by the Missouri River. To the southwest are the Black Hills, well known for Mount Rushmore. Not much else will bring visitors to this remote part of the country than fresh air and outdoor fun. Once the home of Laura Ingles Wilder and the foot path for Lewis and Clark, South Dakota is sparsely populated and perfectly preserved in nature. Visitors won't find the typical hoards of tourists found at other vacation destinations, but they will find plenty of hiking, camping, skiing, fishing and boating to fill endless hours during both the summer and winter months. Lodging in the vast plains ranges from brand-name hotels and motels to luxurious family, nature, or romantic lodges which may be found nestled against the hills or sitting lakeside.

The state has several different geographic regions; the Southeast, Glacial Lakes, Great Lakes, and Badlands/Black Hills. Sioux Falls, in the Southeast, demonstrates the grandeur of the Big Sioux River, with fantastic water falls. Shopping and tourism is at the heart of the city's economy; name-brand hotels and business suites are available year round to accommodate every traveler's need. The Glacial Lakes area is great for traveling among the pre-historic, scenic lands where today many species of wildlife can be found roaming free.

Mount Rushmore is a major draw for tourism in South Dakota. Located near the town of Rapid City, Rushmore is the famous carved mountain which pays homage to four of the country's greatest Presidents. Rapid City itself is a great place for rummaging around in antique shops, camping under the stars and hiking along the Black Hill's many trails. Rapid City has a wide variety of hotels, motels and camping accommodations, including some inclusive resorts, all of which are ready to welcome all travelers.

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