Our Projects

Great places don’t happen by accident. Use the interactive map to see what we’re dreaming up – and find ways to join the cause.

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Interactive Project Map of South Dakota
ongoing // Interpretive Signage // northeast
Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

The museum’s current displays are due for a much-needed upgrade. Updates will help preserve and share the Fort’s history with future generations, creating an immersive experience for all visitors.

ongoing // Playground // northeast
Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

One of the few parks without a playground facility, this unique 1880s-themed playground is designed to complement the military fort’s historic charm. This project will give children a chance to explore, climb, and create memories while connecting with history.

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // northeast
Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

This thoughtfully designed facility will feature restrooms, office spaces, a museum, and artifact storage areas. Both the building and its accompanying parking lot will be partially sunk into the ground to preserve and enhance the unobstructed views of the historic fort.

ongoing // Amphitheater // northeast
Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

A key feature in the master plan for Fort Sisseton, a formal event stage and lawn area would provide a dedicated space for programs, educational talks, presentations, and musical performances.

ongoing // Fish Cleaning // northeast
Hartford Beach State Park

The addition of an indoor fish cleaning station will provide visitors with a convenient and efficient facility, especially during the winter months when Big Stone Lake becomes an ice fishing hot spot.

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // northeast
Lake Herman State Park

A new education center will seat up to 60 guests and include a kitchenette and restrooms. This versatile facility will host educational programs, special events, and potentially rentals, enriching the experiences of countless visitors.

ongoing // Fish Cleaning // northeast
Lake Poinsett Recreation Area

An indoor fish cleaning station addresses the needs of the park’s vibrant angling community. This comfortable, fully equipped facility will offer convenience and shelter year-round.

ongoing // Picnic Shelter // northeast
Lake Thompson Recreation Area

Plans for expanded access to Lake Thompson include a new road, parking, shore fishing access, and restroom facilities. The project will also include a picnic shelter designed to host special events and programs, as well as provide a space for group activities like reunions, weddings, and other gatherings.

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // northeast
Oakwood Lakes State Park

This state-of-the-art classroom will be capable of seating 40-60,Complete with restrooms and a kitchenette. The versatile facility will host educational programs for school groups, nursing home residents, and lifetime learners to engage in enriching activities, and offer a charming setting for special events.

ongoing // Picnic Shelter // northeast
Walker’s Point Recreation Area

The completed project will serve as a versatile space for hosting special events, educational programs, and group activities—including family reunions, weddings, and other gatherings.

ongoing // Picnic Shelter // northeast
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area

A new shelter on the East Unit will be an ideal event space, providing a versatile and scenic facility for hosting special events, educational programs, and group activities.

ongoing // Playground // southeast
Adams Homestead

An all-inclusive playground was constructed at Adams Homestead, but budget constraints prevented the inclusion of some key features. Completing the planned additions to this popular playground would provide an even more inclusive and engaging experience for visitors.

ongoing // Amphitheater // southeast
Big Sioux Recreation Area

An amphitheater would provide a more inviting and functional facility for park programs. With improved ADA accessibility, it would offer stable shade to protect visitors from the heat, as well as convenient restroom access, creating a more comfortable and inclusive experience for all attendees.

ongoing // Playground // southeast
Lewis & Clark Recreation Area

The West Midway campground currently lacks a playground to serve the 78 campsites in the vicinity. Adding a playground within the campground would provide a convenient and accessible play area for families, enhancing the overall camping experience.

completed // Visitor/Education Center // southeast
Good Earth State Park

In 2017, Good Earth State Park unveiled a new chapter of its history with the opening of a state-of-the art visitor center. Learn more

ongoing // Bridge // southeast
Good Earth State Park

This bridge would provide access between SD and IA, enhancing regional connectivity and outdoor recreation opportunities. It’s a pivotal step in realizing the original master plan vision for a bi-state park system.

ongoing // Playground // southeast
Good Earth State Park

When Good Earth State Park was envisioned, inclusivity was at the heart of its design, from the fully ADA-compliant visitor center to the multi-mile limestone trails and scenic observation decks. Now, we can take that vision one step further by creating an all-inclusivePlayground for our young visitors.

ongoing // Overlook Deck // southeast
Good Earth State Park

Much of the historic Native American village site and the enigmatic pitted boulder lie south of the main overlook platforms. A new overlook platform further south would provide direct views of this important area, enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of its cultural significance.

ongoing // Overlook Deck // southeast
Newton Hills State Park

Adding a platform at one of Newton Hills’ most popular scenic overlooks will highlight the distinctive features at this forested oasis in eastern South Dakota.

ongoing // Accessibility // central
Operation Mobility

Operation: Mobility is a volunteer-driven campaign working to provide up all-terrain track chairs and trailers to destinations around the state. Learn more

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // southeast
Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls

The Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls has introduced thousands of people to outdoor recreation through free classes and programs. For its next chapter, we’re setting our sights on even greater impact. Learn more

completed // Land Acquisition // southeast
Palisades State Park

Over 90,000 visitors each year are drawn to this park’s pink Sioux quartzite rock formations along Split Rock Creek. Since 2018, we’ve worked to expand the park’s footprint, facilities and visitor access. Learn more

ongoing // Amphitheater // southeast
Palisades State Park

This project will incorporate the amphitheater 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.

ongoing // Bridge // southeast
Palisades State Park

A bridge across Split Rock Creek will open access to the stunning Western portion of the park's new property.

ongoing // Land Acquisition // southeast
Springfield Recreation Area

There is currently no buffer between the north campground road and adjacent private property. Acquiring additional 1-5 acres of land would create a protective buffer and could also allow for the addition of 10 to 15 new campsites.

ongoing // Bridge // southeast
Wall Lake Lakeside Use Area

The wooden bridge to the island at Wall Lake is nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing it with a wider steel bridge would improve durability and functionality, allowing the use of maintenance equipment to better care for this popular fishing spot.

ongoing // Playground // central
Cow Creek Recreation Area

Designed to complement the area’s natural beauty, this family-friendly feature will serve as a key attraction. It’s a much-needed recreational facility for a growing population base and residential development north of Pierre.

ongoing // Amphitheater // west
Custer State Park

This project provides a dedicated space at the Custer State Park Visitor Center for guest speakers, educational programs, and community events. It will offer ample parking, enhanced accessibility, and larger audience accommodation.

completed // Visitor/Education Center // west
Custer State Park

Completed in 2022, the Custer State Park Bison Center celebrates the story of one of North America’s most iconic creatures. Learn more

completed // Visitor/Education Center // west
Custer State Park

An interactive introduction to 71,000 acres of pristine Black Hills beauty, the Custer State Park Visitor Center has wowed visitors since its completion in 2016. Learn more

ongoing // Bridge // west
Mickelson Trail

This iconic structure between the Hill City and Mystic trailheads is in urgent need of a full replacement. Aging components like footings, column caps, surface decking, and braces threaten the bridge's integrity.

ongoing // Interpretive Signage // west
Mickelson Trail

This project will replace 20 existing signs with updated stories, images, and information that aligns with the new trailhead maps.

completed // Visitor/Education Center // west
Peter Norbeck Education Center

This historic building first opened its doors in 1934 as a museum. Today, as an outdoor education center, it encourages children and families to explore the unique ecosystems in the park. Learn more

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // west
Custer State Park

Currently, all major interpretive sites are on the eastern side of the park, leaving the Sylvan Lake and surrounding western areas underserved. The addition of a welcome center on the west end of the park will ensure every guest enjoys an enriching experience.

""

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

ongoing // Interpretive Signage // northeast

The museum’s current displays are due for a much-needed upgrade. Updates will help preserve and share the Fort’s history with future generations, creating an immersive experience for all visitors.

arrow Donate Now
""

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

ongoing // Playground // northeast

One of the few parks without a playground facility, this unique 1880s-themed playground is designed to complement the military fort’s historic charm. This project will give children a chance to explore, climb, and create memories while connecting with history.

arrow Donate Now
""

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // northeast

This thoughtfully designed facility will feature restrooms, office spaces, a museum, and artifact storage areas. Both the building and its accompanying parking lot will be partially sunk into the ground to preserve and enhance the unobstructed views of the historic fort.

arrow Donate Now
""

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park

ongoing // Amphitheater // northeast

A key feature in the master plan for Fort Sisseton, a formal event stage and lawn area would provide a dedicated space for programs, educational talks, presentations, and musical performances.

arrow Donate Now
""

Hartford Beach State Park

ongoing // Fish Cleaning // northeast

The addition of an indoor fish cleaning station will provide visitors with a convenient and efficient facility, especially during the winter months when Big Stone Lake becomes an ice fishing hot spot.

arrow Donate Now
""

Lake Herman State Park

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // northeast

A new education center will seat up to 60 guests and include a kitchenette and restrooms. This versatile facility will host educational programs, special events, and potentially rentals, enriching the experiences of countless visitors.

arrow Donate Now
""

Lake Poinsett Recreation Area

ongoing // Fish Cleaning // northeast

An indoor fish cleaning station addresses the needs of the park’s vibrant angling community. This comfortable, fully equipped facility will offer convenience and shelter year-round.

arrow Donate Now
""

Lake Thompson Recreation Area

ongoing // Picnic Shelter // northeast

Plans for expanded access to Lake Thompson include a new road, parking, shore fishing access, and restroom facilities. The project will also include a picnic shelter designed to host special events and programs, as well as provide a space for group activities like reunions, weddings, and other gatherings.

arrow Donate Now
""

Oakwood Lakes State Park

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // northeast

This state-of-the-art classroom will be capable of seating 40-60,Complete with restrooms and a kitchenette. The versatile facility will host educational programs for school groups, nursing home residents, and lifetime learners to engage in enriching activities, and offer a charming setting for special events.

arrow Donate Now
""

Walker’s Point Recreation Area

ongoing // Picnic Shelter // northeast

The completed project will serve as a versatile space for hosting special events, educational programs, and group activities—including family reunions, weddings, and other gatherings.

arrow Donate Now
""

Pickerel Lake Recreation Area

ongoing // Picnic Shelter // northeast

A new shelter on the East Unit will be an ideal event space, providing a versatile and scenic facility for hosting special events, educational programs, and group activities.

arrow Donate Now
""

Adams Homestead

ongoing // Playground // southeast

An all-inclusive playground was constructed at Adams Homestead, but budget constraints prevented the inclusion of some key features. Completing the planned additions to this popular playground would provide an even more inclusive and engaging experience for visitors.

arrow Donate Now
""

Big Sioux Recreation Area

ongoing // Amphitheater // southeast

An amphitheater would provide a more inviting and functional facility for park programs. With improved ADA accessibility, it would offer stable shade to protect visitors from the heat, as well as convenient restroom access, creating a more comfortable and inclusive experience for all attendees.

arrow Donate Now
""

Lewis & Clark Recreation Area

ongoing // Playground // southeast

The West Midway campground currently lacks a playground to serve the 78 campsites in the vicinity. Adding a playground within the campground would provide a convenient and accessible play area for families, enhancing the overall camping experience.

arrow Donate Now
""

Good Earth State Park

completed // Visitor/Education Center // southeast

In 2017, Good Earth State Park unveiled a new chapter of its history with the opening of a state-of-the art visitor center. Learn more here.

""

Good Earth State Park

ongoing // Bridge // southeast

This bridge would provide access between SD and IA, enhancing regional connectivity and outdoor recreation opportunities. It’s a pivotal step in realizing the original master plan vision for a bi-state park system.

arrow Donate Now
""

Good Earth State Park

ongoing // Playground // southeast

When Good Earth State Park was envisioned, inclusivity was at the heart of its design, from the fully ADA-compliant visitor center to the multi-mile limestone trails and scenic observation decks. Now, we can take that vision one step further by creating an all-inclusivePlayground for our young visitors.

arrow Donate Now
""

Good Earth State Park

ongoing // Overlook Deck // southeast

Much of the historic Native American village site and the enigmatic pitted boulder lie south of the main overlook platforms. A new overlook platform further south would provide direct views of this important area, enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of its cultural significance.

arrow Donate Now
""

Newton Hills State Park

ongoing // Overlook Deck // southeast

Adding a platform at one of Newton Hills’ most popular scenic overlooks will highlight the distinctive features at this forested oasis in eastern South Dakota.

arrow Donate Now
""

Operation Mobility

ongoing // Accessibility // central

Operation: Mobility is a volunteer-driven campaign working to provide up all-terrain track chairs and trailers to destinations around the state. Learn more here.

arrow Donate Now
""

Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // southeast

The Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls has introduced thousands of people to outdoor recreation through free classes and programs. For its next chapter, we’re setting our sights on even greater impact. Learn more here.

arrow Donate Now
""

Palisades State Park

completed // Land Acquisition // southeast

Over 90,000 visitors each year are drawn to this park’s pink Sioux quartzite rock formations along Split Rock Creek. Since 2018, we’ve worked to expand the park’s footprint, facilities and visitor access. Learn more here.

""

Palisades State Park

ongoing // Amphitheater // southeast

This project will incorporate the amphitheater 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.

arrow Donate Now
""

Palisades State Park

ongoing // Bridge // southeast

A bridge across Split Rock Creek will open access to the stunning Western portion of the park's new property.

arrow Donate Now
""

Springfield Recreation Area

ongoing // Land Acquisition // southeast

There is currently no buffer between the north campground road and adjacent private property. Acquiring additional 1-5 acres of land would create a protective buffer and could also allow for the addition of 10 to 15 new campsites.

arrow Donate Now
""

Wall Lake Lakeside Use Area

ongoing // Bridge // southeast

The wooden bridge to the island at Wall Lake is nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing it with a wider steel bridge would improve durability and functionality, allowing the use of maintenance equipment to better care for this popular fishing spot.

arrow Donate Now
""

Cow Creek Recreation Area

ongoing // Playground // central

Designed to complement the area’s natural beauty, this family-friendly feature will serve as a key attraction. It’s a much-needed recreational facility for a growing population base and residential development north of Pierre.

arrow Donate Now
""

Custer State Park

ongoing // Amphitheater // west

This project provides a dedicated space at the Custer State Park Visitor Center for guest speakers, educational programs, and community events. It will offer ample parking, enhanced accessibility, and larger audience accommodation.

arrow Donate Now
""

Custer State Park

completed // Visitor/Education Center // west

Completed in 2022, the Custer State Park Bison Center celebrates the story of one of North America’s most iconic creatures. Learn more here.

""

Custer State Park

completed // Visitor/Education Center // west

An interactive introduction to 71,000 acres of pristine Black Hills beauty, the Custer State Park Visitor Center has wowed visitors since its completion in 2016. Learn more here.

""

Mickelson Trail

ongoing // Bridge // west

This iconic structure between the Hill City and Mystic trailheads is in urgent need of a full replacement. Aging components like footings, column caps, surface decking, and braces threaten the bridge's integrity.

arrow Donate Now
""

Mickelson Trail

ongoing // Interpretive Signage // west

This project will replace 20 existing signs with updated stories, images, and information that aligns with the new trailhead maps.

arrow Donate Now
""

Peter Norbeck Education Center

completed // Visitor/Education Center // west

This historic building first opened its doors in 1934 as a museum. Today, as an outdoor education center, it encourages children and families to explore the unique ecosystems in the park. Learn more here.

""

Custer State Park

ongoing // Visitor/Education Center // west

Currently, all major interpretive sites are on the eastern side of the park, leaving the Sylvan Lake and surrounding western areas underserved. The addition of a welcome center on the west end of the park will ensure every guest enjoys an enriching experience.

arrow Donate Now