10 Top Places To Visit In South Dakota This Fall
As autumn creeps on South Dakota, the state’s landscapes transit into a vibrant mix of red, orange, and yellow colors. Fall in South Dakota is not only about spectacular views but also offers a variety of outdoor adventures, festivals, and family-friendly activities. From exploring the rugged beauty of Custer State Park to the scenic splendor of Needles Highway, the state's top destinations showcase the best of autumn’s colors and outdoor fun. Typically, fall colors peak between late September and mid-October, making it the ideal season for a visit. Whether you're into hiking, scenic drives, or simply soaking up the season’s beauty, here are the top ten destinations to explore in South Dakota this fall.
Custer State Park
Custer State Park is one of South Dakota’s most stunning fall destinations, and its location in the Black Hills adds to its aesthetic value. As the leaves change, the park’s rugged landscape is painted in warm colors of orange and yellow. The granite peaks mixed with vast meadows create a soothing contrast of color that oozes a calm feeling. While you are at the park, you would want to visit the Wildlife Loop Scenic Byway. This sighting gives visitors a chance to see not just beautiful foliage but also herds of bison, elk, and pronghorn. Sylvan Lake is another must-visit spot in Custer Park, and it is known for its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the changing leaves, making it a good spot for outdoor photography.
Needles Highway
Needles Highway is an iconic drive across the granite peaks of the Black Hills. On this highway, you can catch some of the most breathtaking fall views in the region. The twisting road leads you through sharp rock formations and lush forests, with fall foliage setting the stage for a perfect road trip.
The golden aspen trees lining the route create a stunning contrast against the dark, towering pines lining the peaks. There are several stop points made especially for taking photos, and Sylvan Lake also beckons tourists to Custer State Park. Tourists with a flair for a thrilling experience will enjoy a drive through Needles Highway as it has a narrow tunnel, known as Needles Eye, that passes through towering rock spires, which is the major highlight of the highway.
Spearfish Canyon
One of the best ways to explore the natural environment is by hiking. You can make it more fun by hiking with family and friends, and one of the best places to do this is Spearfish Canyon. It has really dazzling leaves and some of the best vegetation in the state. The canyon is characterized by birches and aspens, which switch between beautiful hues of orange and yellow. The Roughlock Falls hike is one of the best in South Dakota, and it features a multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by evergreen, ponderosa pines, and spruce trees, adding color to the canyon. The hike has a 2-mile loop, which is not difficult to navigate, and it is a good place to spend your day exploring and going off on adventures. Keep an eye on the treeline, as wildlife such as elk, bald eagles, and coyotes can roam around the trail areas during autumn.
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is very famous for its dramatic rock formations, but in the fall, its sweeping prairies and rugged landscapes are quite the sight to behold. As the autumn grasses turn golden, they form a striking contrast against the layered buttes and pinnacles that define the park’s scenery. One of the most popular landmarks here is the Red Shirt Table, the highest point in the park, reaching a whopping 3,340 feet.
For exploration, the park’s 240,000-acre expanse is full of prominent trails. The Castle Trail and Notch Trail, which are situated in the park, make for a comfortable walk through the landscape. During this time, the weather is usually cool, and nature lovers can use the time to spot prairie dogs and bison that are scattered throughout the park. As the sun sets, visitors can also set up camp at one of the two campsites: Cedar Pass Campground and Sage Creek Campground. They offer a range of amenities, from RV hookup sites to covered picnic tables.
Palisades State Park
Located in eastern South Dakota, Palisades State Park is an impressive spectacle during the fall, as its bright autumn foliage contrasts with the pinkish-red rock formations. While small at just 435 acres, the park is filled with fun spots and hiking trails that will keep you engaged throughout the day.
Split Rock Creek meanders through the park, and its clear waters mirror the vibrant colors of the surrounding trees. The forest landscape can be explored by walking different hiking trails, such as the King and Queen Rock Trail, which has great photo spots and offers fantastic views of the cliffs and the fall colors from different vantage points. The trail leads to the King and Queen Rock, the park’s Sioux Quartzite rocks, which are over a billion years old and just out 50 feet from the water. Definitely a stunning destination for a fall vacation.
Jewel Cave National Monument
Jewel Cave National Monument is one of the best places to explore in South Dakota. The cave is widely known as one of the most sought-after destinations in South Dakota. As the third-longest cave in the world, it covers over 200 miles of mapped passages.
The cave is known for stunning formations like sparkling calcite crystals, box work, and “cave bacon,” which will impress geologists or outdoor lovers. For adventure seekers, there is a lot to learn and explore as you can embark on ranger-led tours, including the half-mile Historic Lantern Tour for an old-fashioned adventure. Above the cave, hiking trails take you through scenic canyons and forests, showing breathtaking views of the Black Hills. You can also connect with the wildlife here, as there are opportunities for birdwatching and photography to help capture those memories.
Newton Hills State Park
Newton Hills State Park is just the place to visit during the fall for lovers of scenic autumn foliage and fall celebrations. During this cool season in South Dakota, Newton Hills State Park is one the best places to enjoy the fall colors due to its picturesque landscape. Glaciers formed the area, and the park is part of the geological formation of Coteau des Prairie. The park also hosts Candlelight Walk and FestiFall every October. Candlelight Walk will tickle the fancy of those who enjoy the spooky aspect of the fall, featuring a 2.2-mile walk through a trail in the woods, usually lit by candles. Meanwhile, Festifall has entertainment for everyone with pumpkin contests, hayrides, and a pumpkin catapult.
Sica Hollow State Park
Sica Hollow State Park is located in northeastern South Dakota and gives visitors a taste of history and autumn charm. The park’s name, “Sica,” comes from the Dakota word for “evil” due to the reddish tint of the water caused by iron-rich springs. While the legends of haunted trails add a touch of mystique, Sica Hollow is nothing short of enchanting during the fall.
The Trail of Spirits is a peaceful hiking trail that takes you through a forest of trees covered with autumn colors. Small streams and trickling waterfalls add to the serene atmosphere. The park’s atmosphere is cool for taking pictures and reconnecting with nature. Those interested in birdwatching can adore an array of species, such as veeries, yellow-bellied sapsuckers, and purple finches. Moreover, if you want to stay the night, there are horse campsites, tent sites, hitching posts, and vault toilets for a quiet fall escape in South Dakota.
Randall Creek Recreation Area
For a peaceful and scenic fall getaway, Randall Creek Recreation Area is an ideal destination. Lined along the Missouri River, this 184-acre park offers a stunning display of autumn colors with trees lining the riverbanks and wildlife in abundance. The park’s quiet atmosphere makes it perfect for those looking to relax while enjoying the whiff of fall air. Fishing enthusiasts can take advantage of some of the best walleye and catfish fishing in the state. Furthermore, one can head out on the water themselves, thanks to the boating and canoeing opportunities here.
Those who want to stay on land will adore the park's trails, which provide opportunities for hiking and birdwatching amidst the vibrant fall foliage. There is also a volleyball court, disc golf area, and basketball court, so everyone will find a way to experience the cool autumn breeze. Whether you are seeking solitude or outdoor adventure, Randall Creek Recreation Area is a top spot for fall fun in South Dakota.
Lewis and Clark Recreation Area
Located along The Missouri River, Lewis and Clark Recreation Area offers nearly 1,000 acres of beautiful wilderness to watch the different hues of fall colors. The park’s lakeshores are lined with trees that turn golden in autumn, providing stunning views both from the water and from the park’s hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy boating or kayaking on Lewis and Clark Lake, where the calm waters reflect the vibrant fall colors. The park has 418 campsites across its vast landscape, which means there is plenty of land to explore. The Gavins Point Nature Trail is a popular favorite for those looking to take leisurely strolls. There is also a basketball court and many picnic tables, making this park an excellent spot for a relaxing weekend in the countryside.
Wrapping Up
South Dakota opens up opportunities to enjoy diverse activities, from scenic drives through Needles Highway to lively festivals and quiet retreats in nature at Newton Hills State Park. While these places are undeniably beautiful, you will enjoy them more if you pay a visit to this state in the fall. Whether you are photographing the fiery autumn landscapes, hiking through colorful forests, or enjoying family-friendly festivities, these places provide the perfect setting for a memorable autumn holiday. This is your sign to embrace the cool weather and plan that much-needed trip to South Dakota.
