South Dakota Reservation Map

North Dakota’s Standing Rock Sioux aren’t backing down to oil pipeline

Introduction

South Dakota is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is known for its vast prairies, rugged badlands, and iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore. However, there is much more to explore in South Dakota, especially on the various Native American reservations scattered throughout the state. In this travel guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive map and information on the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports on South Dakota’s reservations.

Top Attractions

South Dakota’s reservations are home to many must-see attractions, including:

The Crazy Horse Memorial, a massive mountain carving that honors the Lakota warrior and leader
The Black Hills, a region of pine-covered mountains and scenic drives
Wounded Knee Massacre Site, a National Historic Landmark commemorating the tragic event that occurred in 1890
Badlands National Park, a unique landscape of eroded rock formations and canyons
Wind Cave National Park, home to one of the world’s longest and most complex caves

Hidden Gems

While the aforementioned attractions are certainly worth visiting, South Dakota’s reservations offer many hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. Some of these hidden gems include:

The Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center, which showcases Lakota culture and history
The Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, a museum that tells the story of the Cold War in South Dakota
The Bear Butte State Park, a sacred site for many Native American tribes that offers hiking trails and stunning views
The Crow Creek Tribal Museum, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe
The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Cultural Center & Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits related to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe

Food Scene

South Dakota’s reservations offer a diverse array of culinary options, ranging from traditional Native American fare to modern fusion cuisine. Some of the best places to eat on the reservations include:

The Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries, which features a restaurant serving traditional Lakota dishes such as buffalo stew and fry bread
The Tatanka Food Truck, which serves bison burgers and other locally-sourced dishes
The Red Cloud Indian School’s Heritage Center Cafe, which offers a variety of Native American-inspired dishes
The Laughing Water Restaurant at the Crazy Horse Memorial, which serves Native American and American cuisine with a stunning view of the mountain carving
The Deano’s Grill & Tapworks, which offers a mix of American and Mexican cuisine along with a selection of local craft beers

Budget-Friendly Tips

South Dakota’s reservations offer many affordable options for travelers on a budget. Some tips for saving money include:

Visiting during the off-season (October to April) for lower prices on lodging and activities
Packing a picnic lunch and snacks for day trips instead of eating out
Using public transportation or renting a bike to explore instead of renting a car
Booking accommodations through discount travel sites or staying at budget-friendly hostels or campsites

Outdoor Adventures

South Dakota’s reservations are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with many opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and more. Some of the best outdoor adventures on the reservations include:

Hiking the trails at the Badlands National Park
Biking the Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile rail trail that runs through the Black Hills
Camping at the Custer State Park, which offers a variety of camping options in a beautiful natural setting
Fishing on the Missouri River or one of the many lakes and streams on the reservations
Canoeing or kayaking on the Cheyenne River or one of the other scenic waterways in the area

Historical Landmarks

South Dakota’s reservations are steeped in history, with many landmarks and museums that tell the story of the region’s Native American and pioneer past. Some of the most significant historical landmarks on the reservations include:

The Fort Randall Dam, a National Historic Landmark that was built in the 1940s to control flooding on the Missouri River
The Sitting Bull Burial Site, a memorial to the legendary Lakota leader who was killed by Indian agency police in 1890
The Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, which was the site of the Wounded Knee Massacre and is home to the Oglala Sioux Tribe
The Rosebud Indian Reservation, which was established in 1889 and is home to the Sicangu Lakota Tribe
The Fort Pierre Chouteau Site, a fur trading post that was established in 1832 by the American Fur Company

Family-Friendly Activities

South Dakota’s reservations offer many activities and attractions that are fun for the whole family. Some of the best family-friendly activities include:

The Reptile Gardens, a zoological park that features a variety of reptiles, birds, and other animals
The Storybook Island, a free children’s park that features themed play areas based on classic children’s stories
The Bear Country USA, a drive-through wildlife park that features bears, wolves, bison, and other animals
The Rushmore Tramway Adventures, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as ziplining, tubing, and an alpine slide
The Children’s Museum of South Dakota, which features hands-on exhibits and activities for children of all ages

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

South Dakota’s reservations offer many unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Some of the most unforgettable experiences include:

The Black Hills Powwow, an annual celebration of Native American culture and heritage that features traditional dancing, music, and food
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, a world-famous event that draws thousands of bikers to the Black Hills every August
The Wall Drug Store, a quirky roadside attraction that has been a South Dakota landmark since 1931
The Mammoth Site, a paleontological dig site that features the remains of over 60 mammoths and other prehistoric animals
The Corn Palace, a unique building in Mitchell that is decorated with murals made entirely of corn and other grains

Natural Wonders

South Dakota’s reservations are home to many natural wonders, from towering mountains to winding rivers. Some of the most stunning natural wonders on the reservations include:

The Black Elk Peak, the highest point in South Dakota and a popular hiking destination
The Needles Highway, a scenic drive that winds through the granite spires of the Black Hills
The Missouri River, which flows for over 2,300 miles and is a popular spot for fishing and boating
The Spearfish Canyon, a narrow gorge that features towering limestone cliffs and cascading waterfalls
The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road, a scenic drive that passes through herds of bison, elk, and other wildlife

Vibrant Nightlife

South Dakota’s reservations offer a surprisingly lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs that cater to locals and visitors alike. Some of the best places to experience the nightlife on the reservations include:

The Deadwood Saloon No. 10, a historic bar that was frequented by Wild West legends such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane
The Firehouse Brewing Company, a brewery and restaurant that offers a variety of craft beers and pub fare
The Rushmore Casino, a gaming and entertainment complex that features slot machines, table games, and live music
The Knuckle Saloon, a bar and grill that offers a variety of food and drink options along with live music and events
The Lucky Nugget Gambling Hall, a casino and bar that offers a variety of games and entertainment options