Safety Score
United States
High
Exercise Normal Precaution
Known For
- Mount Rushmore
- Badlands National Park
- Crazy Horse
- Wind Cave
- Custer Park
- Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Covid Status
Risk Level
High
Vaccination Progress
Daily new cases
100k
Infection rate
Positive test rate
% Vaccinated
You can fly into one of South Dakota's commercial airports, or drive in from a neighboring state. If you're driving from out of state, note that I-90 and I-29 are the only interstates that pass through South Dakota.
There are plenty of things to see and do in South Dakota! You can visit Mount Rushmore National Monument, Badlands National Park, the Crazy Horse Memorial, Wind Cave National Park, Custer State Park, and much more.
The weather in South Dakota can vary greatly depending on the time of year and location within the state. In general, summers are warm with occasional thunderstorms, while winters can be cold with significant snowfall.
There are many lodging options available throughout South Dakota, from camping and RV parks to hotels and cabins.
What you should pack will depend on the time of year and the activities you have planned. In general, you will want to pack comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as any necessary camping or hiking gear.
South Dakota is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any travel destination, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. When hiking in the backcountry, be sure to follow posted signs and stay on designated trails. And, as always, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle.
A car is not required but is recommended if you want to explore beyond the cities and towns. South Dakota has an extensive system of highways and roads, but public transportation options are limited.
There are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip to South Dakota. First, many of the state's attractions are located in remote areas with limited cell phone coverage. Second, altitude can be a factor when visiting certain parts of the state - particularly the Black Hills region - so be sure to drink plenty of water.