Palisades State Park

Flash back a few years: with an increasing number of visitors and a 98% campground occupancy rate, Palisade’s State Park facilities and natural resources were under massive pressure. That’s when concerned citizens and officials came together with a plan to expand this one-of-a-kind destination in eastern South Dakota.

Expansion & Future

Over the course of the fall of 2018, the South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation (SDPWF) purchased and donated 267.5 acres of adjoining property to Palisades State Park. This more than doubled the current acreage of the park, bringing the new total to 434.5 acres.

In 2019, most of the new property was farmed or grazed as part of the purchase terms. This year gave the SD Game, Fish and Parks Department the opportunity to work with the local community to develop a comprehensive plan that utilizes the new land while being able to incorporate it seamlessly into the existing park.

Continued development of the property utilizes a phased planning approach, with an estimated cost of $8.3 million. In 2019, Governor Noem committed $500,000 for development and habitat on the new land. The South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation raised $1.6 million in private funds to match the Governor’s commitment.

In 2024, a special ceremony was held to commemorate the opening of King Campground. These 75 new campsites make room for more families and visitors to make memories well into the future. As well, new picnic and day use areas, new cabins and a new entrance with a welcome center were added.

Going Forward

Portions of the property will continue to be developed in a phased approach with development plans that include the following:

• A bridge across Split Rock Creek will open access to the stunning Western portion of the park's new property.
• An amphitheater will be added into the park’s day-use area, with expanded parking for greater accessibility. The site will serve as a venue for educational programs, weddings, and concerts.