Best South Dakota Resorts:- Famous for being home to Mount Rushmore and the Badlands, South Dakota is a scenic state that draws millions of tourists to partake in its impressive offerings.
The state also has numerous historical attractions such as the historic town of Deadwood and The Crazy Horse Memorial that offer a peek into its rich past. From bustling metropolises to quiet scenic towns, South Dakota has it all.
Owing to its flourishing tourism industry, the state also has plenty of resorts.
Whether your idea of a perfect vacation involves canoeing on a lake, sipping wine by a bonfire, or dancing all night, you’ll find a resort that ticks off every box on your checklist.
Wondering which one to choose?
Take your pick from our list of the 11 best South Dakota resorts: –
Spearfish Canyon Resort #1
Looking for a serene escape into nature?
Head to Spearfish Canyon Resort. Nestled within Spearfish Canyon, this resort offers a plethora of fun outdoor recreational activities.
You can hike on numerous trails, rejuvenate your senses at Spearfish Falls, soak in incredible views, or indulge in nature photography, there is something here for everyone.
You can also visit Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls. After a long day, unwind in one of the cosy suites of the resort that come replete with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms.
What’s more?
The resort also features outdoor hot tubs, the Latchstring Restaurant, and the Roughlock Lounge.
Mount Rushmore Resort at Palmer Gulch #2
Immerse yourself in the Wild West culture at this popular resort at Palmer Gulch. It dates back to 1925 and draws nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
There is an abundance of fun activities to indulge in here for a memorable vacation. From witnessing the exciting Palmer Gulch rodeo, horseback riding through the surrounding hills and forests, relaxing by the campfire to fishing at the on-site fishing pond, there is something here for every taste.
You can also enjoy live music from the Hill City Slickers band, and go for a romantic ride on a horse-drawn carriage.
The resort offers a range of accommodation options to choose from, including rooms, suites, and free-standing cabins to tent and RV sites. It’s one of the most popular South Dakota resorts.
Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort #3
Love enjoying water activities?
This scenic resort nestled on the banks of the Missouri River won’t disappoint.
You can enjoy a host of recreational activities. From swimming in the indoor pool, soaking in the hot tub, boating from the on-site marina, and playing in the games room, to working out in the exercise room, there is plenty to keep you engaged here.
Owing to its proximity to the Chamberlain Recreation Area, you can also enjoy fishing and hunting.
When hunger strikes, head to any of the two restaurants on-site: Waterfront Grill & Tiki Bar which offers beautiful waterfront views, and Bridges Restaurant & Lounge where you can relish American fare.
What’s more?
You can choose from a variety of accommodation options such as private cottages, campgrounds, and rooms in the main lodge building.
Sylvan Lake Lodge #4
Located on the banks of Sylvan Lake, this upscale stone and wood lodge is set against a beautiful backdrop. Perched within Custer State Park, it features cosy rooms replete with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers.
Visiting with a large group?
Book one of the cabins that can fit up to ten people and offer amenities like microwaves, mini-fridges, fireplaces, fire pits, and outdoor picnic tables.
You can hike on the numerous trails, visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, picnic lakeside, or indulge in nature photography, there is a variety of fun activities to enjoy here.
You can also relish delicious meals at an upscale seasonal restaurant that features a terrace with stunning views of the lake and offers locally sourced produce.
The Lodge at Deadwood #5
Whether you’re an avid gambler or a history buff, this upscale hotel and casino won’t disappoint. Nestled in South Dakota’s Black Hills, The Lodge at Deadwood is home to a casino with more than 270 slot machines. It also features an indoor waterpark.
You can work out at the gym, feel the thrill on waterslides, soak in the indoor pool with geysers, try your luck at the casino, or play on the pirate ship, there won’t be a dull moment here.
Got some more time on your hands?
Explore the historic downtown Deadwood which is only 2 miles away.
From rooms featuring modern decor with soft brown hues with flat-screen TVs and desks to suites with microwaves, fireplaces, and fridges, there is a variety of accommodation options to choose from.
Some rooms also come with balconies. The resort is also home to a ballroom, several meeting rooms, a spa, the Deadwood Grille, and Oggie’s Sports Bar & Emporium.
Red Rock River Resort #6
Set in a renovated sandstone Minnekahta Block from 1891, this fascinating resort has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.
Located in historic downtown Hot Springs, it offers access to an impressive spa and wellness center and beautifully decorated rooms.
If you’re looking for some adventure, you can explore the numerous biking and hiking trails nearby and soak in the picturesque scenery.
Owing to its prime location, you can also access plenty of dining options and nearby attractions such as Black Hills National Forest, Wind Cave National Park, and the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs.
The rooms here come with deep windowsills, cable TV, high ceilings, complimentary internet, and down pillows. There’s also a bar and lounge on-site. Couple that with free parking and concierge services.
State Game Lodge #7
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life at this beautiful property in Custer State Park. State Game Lodge is an impressive stone and wood lodge from 1920 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
With birches, oaks, aspen trees, and ponderosa pines all around, you can enjoy the tranquil scenic surroundings.
The lodge houses around 104 rooms and cabins that come with coffee pots, fridges, and flat-screen TVs.
If you’re visiting with a large group, book one of their cabins that feature full kitchens, outdoor firepits, and picnic tables and can accommodate up to 28 people.
Cabins also have climate control facilities. From hiking and picnicking to wildlife spotting, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy here. The lodge even served as the Summer White House for President Calvin Coolidge in 1927.
Lewis & Clark Resort #8
Nestled on the shores of Lewis & Clark Lake in the Lewis & Clark Recreation area, this beautiful resort draws office groups, couples, and families alike.
If you’re a larger group, book the main lodge which offers incredible views of the lake and the Chalkstone Bluffs. Other than that, the resort is also home to cabins and motel rooms that feature desks, flat-screen TVs, patios, fridges, and other amenities.
Looking for a closer-to-nature stay?
There are numerous tent and RV camping sites available. You can swim in the private pool, rent outdoor games, enjoy fishing, go biking, and much more, there are abundant recreational activities to enjoy here.
Canyon Lake Resort #9
From water sports to exciting hikes and sunset views, Canyon Lake Resort offers it all. Located on the shores of Canyon Lake, the resort is popular among families.
From paddle-boarding on the lake, swimming in the outdoor pool, and enjoying a picnic in the BBQ area, to hiking on the surrounding trails, there is something here for every taste.
The family-owned property offers a range of accommodation options that include motel rooms, cabins, a five-bedroom house, and a spacious lodge with nine bedrooms.
You can enjoy amenities in the cabins here such as cable TV, Wi-Fi access, and well-equipped kitchenettes.
If you’d like a home away from home vibe, you can go for larger cabins that have full kitchens and living rooms. It’s one of the best South Dakota resorts.
Creekside Resort #10
Only a 15-minute drive from Mount Rushmore, Creekside Resort is perched in the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota in Custer State Park.
No matter when you visit, the resort offers a plethora of recreational activities in every season. From picnicking and hiking to enjoying nature walks, and fishing, there are plenty of fun recreational activities to indulge in.
Set in the region of the historic State Game Lodge, it’s surrounded by lush hills which are home to plenty of wildlife including buffalo, bighorn sheep, wild turkeys, and deer.
You can choose from thirty lavish rooms that feature rustic decor and amenities. It also has a lobby with a fireplace where guests can gather and a meeting room with a sound system.
Deadwood Gulch Gaming Resort #11
Whether your idea of a perfect vacation involves playing games at a casino or indulging in a late-night pizza at a fireside bar, this resort is sure to delight.
Nestled in the Black Hills National Forest, the resort features a 24-hour casino, a fireside bar, a bakery, a hot tub, and a fitness centre.
What’s more?
You can also explore attractions such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial and downtown Deadwood.
The rooms at the resort feature modern decor and come replete with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and complimentary Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant on-site that has a waterside terrace.
So, pick the one that attracts you the most and get ready for an incredible vacation in South Dakota.
Follow us for more such insights!
FAQs:-
Q. What is South Dakota famous for?
South Dakota is known for being home to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, numerous state parks, trails, lakes, and historic places.
Q. What is the Black Hills known for?
Black Hills is known for being home to two national monuments, Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial.
Q. Is South Dakota a good place to live?
With its strong economy, zero state income tax, low-cost living, stunning natural landscapes, and less crowded cities, South Dakota is a great place to call home.