14 Photos to Make You Fall in Love with South Dakota

South Dakota may not be on top of your bucket list yet, but these photos will make you reconsider. We absolutely loved our visit to South Dakota! From the history sites to the wildlife, South Dakota will keep you entertained for weeks.

Pronghorn in Custer State Park
Buffalo in Custer State Park

Read More: One Thrilling Week in South Dakota

Badlands National Park was my favorite part of this entire trip. It felt like being on a different planet. The best moment was watching the sunset and driving back to our campsite and running into a herd of buffalo in pitch black. The surrounded our truck as we sat silent watching them.
Wind Cave National Park Visit Center

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Badlands National Park
Sunrise in Custer State Park. One day in Custer State Park wasn’t enough. We went back over 5 times because each time brought something new.

Read More: 11 Photos of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Boland Ridge Trail in Wind Cave National Park where my husband got attacked by a cactus. Sadly, we didn’t see any elk on this hike, but we’ve heard it’s a great trail to try and see them. Check out this list of Best 10 Hikes and Trails in Wind Cave National Park by Alltrails.
Custer State Park
Along the Needles Scenic Drive
Iron Creek Tunnel, South Dakota
Wild donkeys in Custer State Park
Mount Rushmore during sunrise was the perfect time to visit. Highly recommend visiting during the early morning hours when you’ll beat the crowds and the heat.
Traffic jam in Custer State Park. This was our first encounter with a herd of buffalo, and I was so ecstatic to see them! There’s nothing like being surrounded by these big, beautiful beasts.
Heartland RV Park and Campground in Hermosa, South Dakota – this was a great centrally located campground, highly recommend!

Final Thoughts

As you can see from these photos of South Dakota, this state is a beautiful, full of national and state parks calling your name! You’ll be delighted with even a few days spent in South Dakota but if you have time make it a full 1-2 weeks!

Happy Traveling!

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