When we set out to explore unique RV experiences in South Dakota, we had no idea what an adventure we were in for! From the moment we arrived in Sioux Falls to our final stop at an epic RV gathering in Sturgis, we were constantly surprised by the hidden gems and unexpected beauty this state has to offer. Join us as we take you through our month-long journey, sharing the spots that made us fall in love with South Dakota and the moments that left us speechless. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just dreaming of hitting the road, we’ve got some unforgettable stops you won’t want to miss!
Sioux Falls: A Hidden Gem for RV Travelers in South Dakota
When we first planned our trip through South Dakota, Sioux Falls wasn’t even on our radar. But wow, were we in for a surprise! The city’s namesake falls, right in the heart of downtown, blew us away. We rode our e-bikes down to the falls, but you can easily drive and park nearby.
Key highlights of Sioux Falls:
- Beautiful, accessible waterfalls in a well-maintained park
- Extensive bike trail system perfect for exploring the city
- Great breweries within biking distance (though we found one that was just okay)
When we needed a spot to stay for a night between campgrounds, we turned to Harvest Hosts and found a perfect solution just 15 minutes from Sioux Falls – Wild Prairie Winery. This family-run winery offered:
- A quaint tasting room in a converted barn
- Friendly staff happy to chat about local life
- Delicious local cheese and homemade cider
- A peaceful overnight spot surrounded by vineyards
It was the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring, and we loved supporting a local business. If you’re a Harvest Hosts member (which we highly recommend for full-timers), definitely add this stop to your South Dakota itinerary!
State Park Surprises: Big Sioux Recreation Area and Palisades State Park
South Dakota’s state parks pleasantly surprised us with their beauty and accessibility for big rigs. At Big Sioux Recreation Area, we enjoyed:
- Clean shower facilities
- Partial hookups (double-check for your specific needs)
- Impressive trail systems right behind the RV sites
- Activities like archery and disc golf
Pro tip: When booking state parks, look for sites without trees behind them. This allows you to overhang the end of the pad if needed, making it easier to fit larger rigs.
Just 20 minutes from Sioux Falls, Palisades State Park offered:
- Stunning rock formations along the river
- Trails suitable for various mobility levels
- A picturesque bridge perfect for photos
- Opportunities for climbing and wading (though we saw some daring boys diving despite the signs!)
Badlands National Park: Unveiling the Unexpected Beauty of South Dakota
The Badlands completely shattered our expectations. We stayed at the Badlands Hotel and Campground in Interior, which offered:
- Full hookups (crucial in the summer heat)
- A refreshing pool
- A convenient on-site store
The real star, though, was the Badlands Loop Road. We recommend:
- Driving it early in the morning to beat the crowds
- Taking your time at the numerous viewpoints
- Keeping an eye out for prairie dog towns and bison herds
On the way to the Badlands, don’t miss the “Dignity of Earth and Sky” statue at the rest stop near Chamberlain. It’s a stunning piece of art that’s well worth the quick detour.
Quirky Roadside Attractions: From Wall Drug to the Corn Palace
South Dakota is famous for its roadside attractions, and we couldn’t resist checking them out. Wall Drug, with its endless signs along I-90, is practically a rite of passage. While it was a bit too touristy for our taste, it’s worth a quick stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
The real gem, in our opinion, was the Corn Palace in Mitchell. This unique attraction offers:
- Free admission
- Intricate murals made entirely of corn
- A fascinating history dating back to the 1800s
- A mix of corny (pun intended) souvenirs and genuine artistic appreciation
RV Community on the Road: Our Escapees RV Club Experience in Sturgis
We wrapped up our South Dakota adventure with an Escapees RV Club event in Sturgis. If you’re not familiar with Escapees, they offer:
- Domicile and mail services for full-time RVers
- Regular events across the country for working-age nomads
- Opportunities to connect with other RVers while maintaining a work schedule
The event in Sturgis surprised us with:
- Breathtaking views from the campground on top of a hill
- A fun “lot crawl” where RVers share food and drinks
- Live music and social events in the evenings
- A chance to see Sturgis beyond its famous motorcycle rally
Sturgis itself was much more beautiful than we expected, proving that there’s more to this town than its 10-day motorcycle event each year.
As we reflect on our whirlwind tour of South Dakota, we’re still amazed by the diversity of experiences this state offered us. From the urban oasis of Sioux Falls to the otherworldly landscapes of the Badlands, the quirky charm of the Corn Palace to the breathtaking views in Sturgis, South Dakota truly has something for every RVer. Our journey reminded us that sometimes the best adventures are found in the places you least expect. So, whether you’re planning your own South Dakota RV trip or just adding to your travel bucket list, we hope our experiences inspire you to explore
