The rugged beauty of the Badlands draws visitors from around the world. These striking geologic deposits contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. Ancient horses and rhinos once roamed here. The park’s 244,000 acres protect an expanse of mixed-grass prairie where bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets live today. Interior, South Dakota

Imagine a 100-mile stretch of North America's longest river, a vestige of the untamed American West. The Missouri National Recreational River is where imagination meets reality. Two free flowing stretches of the Missouri make up the National Park. Relive the past by making an exploration of the wild, untamed and mighty river that continues to flow as nature intended. Yankton, South Dakota

Majestic figures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota, tell the story of the birth, growth, development and preservation of this country. From the history of the first inhabitants to the diversity of America today, Mount Rushmore brings visitors face to face with the rich heritage we all share. Keystone, South Dakota

Recreational Opportunities on Federal Lands. Recreation.gov is your gateway to discover America's Outdoors and more! Discover which parks, forests, lakes, museums, and areas managed by federal agencies offer recreation opportunities near you or your destination. Explore your America with Recreation.gov! Experience your favorite activities or places and discover new getaways – your adventure beckons!

Home to breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and exciting geological wonders, South Dakota offers visitors a range of things to do and see! The rivers and lakes in South Dakota provide canoeists and kayakers with excellent opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, breathe fresh air, enjoy nature, learn about area history and participate in physical exercise. South Dakota has acres of lakes and miles of rivers tempting boaters, from a rowboat on grandpa's stock dam to sailing the mighty Missouri River reservoir system. If you are looking for the excitement of having a fish on the line, the relaxation of a quiet day by the lake or a chance to enjoy quality time with family and friends, try year-round fishing in South Dakota.

Discover the Biodiversity of the Prairie. Bison, elk, and other wildlife roam the rolling prairie grasslands and forested hillsides of one of America's oldest national parks. Below the remnant island of intact prairie sits Wind Cave, one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. Named for barometric winds at its entrance, this maze of passages is home to boxwork, a unique formation rarely found elsewhere. Hot Springs, South Dakota