South Dakota
Nature|Parks & Gardens

Reconnect With Nature At The Inspiring Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site In South Dakota

Discover the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site, a lush 155-acre nature area in Sioux Falls perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Published Aug 18, 2020

Written by 

Annie

Are you feeling down and need a pick-me-up? With all of the bad news in the world, this is entirely understandable and - lucky for us South Dakotans - there are plenty of places to unwind and recharge. If pristine nature brings you peace and you crave to get back into it, we recommend visiting South Dakota's inspiring Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site:

Nestled away in Sioux Falls, the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site is a lush and historic 155-acre wonderland that every outdoor enthusiast will enjoy.

alt
Google/V G

Opened in the mid-2000s, the Arboretum and Historic Site is named for Mary Jo Wegner (pictured), who had a long-time dream and vision for an urban nature area like those in other cities across the country.

advertisement
alt
Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum

Dubbed the "newest jewel of the Sioux Falls Parks System," the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site is one of the best outdoor areas in the Midwest (if not the country) and houses several different gardens, wetlands, and plants.

alt
Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum Facebook

When you visit, be sure to set aside ample time to walk around and take in all of the Arboretum's beauty, which boasts everything from water features to shady trees and colorful flowers.

alt
Google/tpaulson4

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled on your walk, as you may even spot deer, turkeys, bald eagles, and colorful amphibians!

alt
Google/V G

In addition to the beautifully manicured walking trail and stunning surroundings, the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site also hosts several classes and other special programs for children and adults alike.

alt
Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum Facebook

To learn more about the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site, upcoming events, and more, please visit their website.

advertisement
alt
Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum Facebook

Do you have a place that you would like to see featured on Only in South Dakota? Nominate it here! For even more things to do around Sioux Falls, click on Here Are The 15 Best Things About The Largest City In South Dakota.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Parks & Gardens

6 Pristine Hidden Beaches Throughout South Dakota You’ve Got To Visit This Summer

Discover six hidden beaches in South Dakota perfect for a tropical getaway without the high cost.

Updated Jun 28, 2024

Written by 

Annie

Beaches? Does South Dakota have a beach? South Dakota is known both near and far for its landmarks, camping, and other outdoor recreational opportunities, but did you know that the Mount Rushmore State is also home to several can't-miss beaches? It's true! If you crave a little tropical getaway without the expensive price tag, check out one (or all!) of these six pristine beaches in South Dakota!

advertisement

1. Sylvan Lake - Custer County

alt
Trip Advisor/georgiatn

Whether you dream of napping on the warm sand or splashing around in the cool water, there is no better place to be than Sylvan Lake! Located inside of Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake came to be in 1881 after a dam was built across the nearby Sunday Gulch, making it one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the Midwest! Visit the official website of Custer State Park for more information.

2. Ravine Lake Park - Huron

alt
Putters & Scoops Facebook

You say you want to go to easy street? Guess what? Ravine Lake Park is literally located along Easy Street in Huron! In addition to its relaxing name, Ravine Lake Park offers a tranquil experience complete with crystal-clear water, a sandy beach, and the Putters & Scoops ice cream shop. Find more information on Ravine Lake Park.

3. Brant Lake - Chester

alt
Google/Kevin Benson

Arguably the most hidden and little-known of these beaches is the charming Brant Lake in Chester. Featuring everything from swimming and sunning to fishing and boating, Brant Lake is sure to be your one-stop-shop for all things outdoors this summer.

advertisement

4. Newton Hills State Park - Canton

alt
Newton Hills State Park Facebook

There is more to the 1,063-acre Newton Hills State Park than just hiking, as evidenced by the gorgeous beach area! In addition to the great swimming, Newton Hills is also home to music festivals and other can't-miss events that are sure to make your visit even more memorable. Here's the official website of Newton Hills State Park.

5. Angostura and Sheps Canyon Recreation Areas - Hot Springs

alt
Angostura and Sheps Canyon Recreation Areas Facebook

Everyone knows Hot Springs for Evans Plunge Mineral Springs, Mammoth Site, and Wind Cave, but until you have also taken a dip in the shining Angostura, you have yet to truly experience this wonderful town.

advertisement

6. Oahe Downstream Recreation Area - Fort Pierre

alt
Oahe Downstream Recreation Area Facebook

Last but certainly not least on our list of hidden South Dakota beaches is the Oahe Downstream Recreation Area in Fort Pierre, which has one of the largest beach areas in the state! What are you waiting for? Grab your blankets, umbrellas, chairs, and picnic baskets, and we will see you there! Visit the official website of Oahe Downstream Recreation Area for more information.

Which South Dakota beach is your favorite? What do you think are the best beaches in South Dakota? Let us know in the comments! Whichever one you choose, though, be sure to bring sun protection! For even more summertime fun in the Mount Rushmore State, check out these five lazy river summer tubing trips that you may want to start planning right away.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/south-dakota/things-to-do-in-summer-south-dakota/

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Parks & Gardens

The Hidden Nature Park In South Dakota With Its Very Own Lake, Farmsteads And So Much More

Published Jun 4, 2024

Written by 

Tori Jane

Hidden away in North Sioux City is an amazing place that even locals often overlook. This is unfortunate because here you'll find all kinds of awesome things to do, see, and experience, including some truly jaw-dropping state parks. Lovers of the outdoors will adore a visit to the Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve, an amazing hidden nature park in South Dakota that's sure to become one of your favorites. It's more than just a park; there are trails, a lake, beautiful woodlands, thrilling wildflowers, and so much more. Of all the best things to do outside in South Dakota, this one might be among my top faves.

advertisement

Welcome to the Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve - a hidden gem in terms of awesome parks in South Dakota.

alt
Brian Staab/Google Local

This land (and all the restored buildings on it) was donated to the state of South Dakota back in 1984 by the two granddaughters of the original homesteader who built this place (and called it home).

Today, it's a safe haven for humans and animals alike.

alt
Jason Baumann/Google Local

With nearly ten miles of stunning, limestone trails to explore the entire place on foot by, you can't go wrong; just be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, pack water, and definitely wear your sunscreen!

More than 100 species of birds call this amazing place home.

alt
Randall Williams/Google Local

Nestled right on the Missouri River, this farmstead is in an ideal place for anyone into birdwatching or nature spotting to kick back, relax, and see what they can see (which is, admittedly a lot).

Historic buildings that stand in the park are few in number, but mighty in history.

alt
Phil Patterson/Google Local

You'll find places like the old Lamont Country School, the Brusseau Cabin, and the Stavenger Lutheran Church, among a few others. History comes alive in this amazing place; few things get me going more than history and nature, and this little hotspot's got 'em both.

advertisement

Popular activities at this hidden park in South Dakota include hiking, biking, wildlife watching, hunting, stargazing, and more.

alt
Brian Staab/Google Local

You'll want to make a whole day of it if you really want to check out all the awesomeness this park has to offer. It's the Goldilocks of South Dakota's parks: not too big, not too small, but just right.

This awesome South Dakota nature park is open year-round, so come back for every season to really get the full picture of just how splendid this little preserve is.

alt
Randall Williams/Google Local

For more info, deeper history, and more, be sure to check out the Adams Homestead and State Nature Preserve website. Need some gear before heading into the wonderful outdoors? Check out all the awesomeness offered up by our friends at The North Face. What's your favorite nature park in South Dakota? Tell me about it in the comments!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Food
Restaurants

This Rhode Island Dining Experience Has Been Called One of the Best Restaurants in the U.S.

by Beth Price-Williams
on Oct 30
alt
Nature
Hiking

I Love To Escape the Crowds and Explore the Hidden Beauty of Campbell Creek Estuary in Alaska

by Megan McDonald
on Oct 30
alt
Experiences
Attractions

I’ve Visited Dozens of Hot Springs and Durango Hot Springs is One of My New Favorites

by Christy Articola
on Oct 30
Hot spring at Durango Hot Springs in Durango, Colorado
Food
Cafes & Coffee Shops

This New Mexico Dining Experience Has Been Called One of the Best Restaurants in the U.S.

by Christy Articola
on Oct 30
Exterior of St. James Tearoom in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Food
Restaurants

The Off-the-Beaten-Path Restaurant in New Mexico That Is Worth the Day Trip

by Christy Articola
on Oct 30
Exterior of Tucumcari Ranch Supply in Tucumcari, New Mexico - home of Watson's BBQ