There's so much to see and do in South Dakota that it can be easy to overlook some of our lesser-known hidden gems. Take a look at these ten amazing under-appreciated state parks and you'll find fewer crowds and just might decide that these are your new favorite spots!

1. Newton Hills State Park

This little state park is perfect for camping - amenities include 128 campsites, eight cabins and a lodge! Explore miles of hiking trails, horse trails and picnic spots, and catch a fish in nearby Lake Lakota.

2. Hartford Beach State Park

Big Stone Lake offers some truly scenic forest and a wonderful little beach that's perfect for a weekend away. This state park offers plenty of campsites and cabins for your overnight stay. There's also a boat ramp, fish cleaning station, flush toilets and showers and playground.

3. Bear Butte State Park

This gorgeous place has long been considered sacred by Native Americans. You'll likely find trees with bit of cloth hanging from the branches. Leave them there - they're prayer cloths. For an incredible view, take the 1.8-mile Summit Trail - it's well worth your effort!

4. Good Earth State Park At Blood Run

This beautiful place is the site of the largest known Oneota settlement in the state. It's located just a few miles from Sioux Falls, and offers some truly spectacular hiking trails. Take a picnic and plan on spending the day here.

5. Sica Hollow State Park

900 acres of woodland make up this pretty state Park in Sisseton. Take the self-guided, interpretive Trail of the Spirits hike, and you'll see some reddish-colored bogs. The old Native American legend says that these bogs were the blood of the ancestors.

6. Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

This pretty preserve includes 1,500 acres right alongside the Missouri River. Take a tour of the restored home and barn, and enjoy 10 miles of trails that take you through forest and prairie, where you'll see plenty of wildlife.

7. Lake Herman State Park

Visit the cabin of Herman Luce, the first settler in this area. The amenities at this charming park are numerous - everything from canoe rentals and game checkouts to a fishing dock, campsites, and playground. You'll love it - and so will the kids!

8. Lake Louise Recreation Area

You'll have tons of fun at Lake Louise Recreation Area. Cool off in the lake by swimming, or take a jet ski or boat out for the afternoon. Watch for pheasants and ducks, and try your luck at fishing. .

9. Oakwood Lakes State Park

Visit this pretty park in the winter for some cross-country skiing and ice fishing; in the summer, enjoy hiking, fishing and picnics. You'll find eight glacial lakes here, so there's definitely plenty to explore. Kayaking here is a treat and a half.

10. Spirit Mound Historic Prairie

Lewis and Clark visited this sacred place back in 1804 - you can stand in the same place these explorers once stood. Take the trail up and back - it's less than a mile, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Wildflowers, plants and wildlife are abundant here.

Which of these state parks have you visited? We'd love to hear your feedback in the comments! Looking for more great state parks in South Dakota to visit? Take a look at these 7 South Dakota state parks that will knock your socks off!