15 Best Resorts In South Dakota
Prepare to be utterly captivated by a destination that defies expectations and promises an unforgettable escape: South Dakota! Often overlooked, this incredible state is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and surprising luxury, especially when it comes to its diverse resorts. Imagine waking up to the serene beauty of the Black Hills, exploring iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, or casting a line into the tranquil waters of the Missouri River. South Dakota offers a unique blend of rugged adventure and refined comfort, making it the perfect getaway for every kind of traveler.
From historic lodges nestled in Custer State Park to modern resorts boasting thrilling water parks, you’re about to discover stays that are destinations in themselves. To make the most of your trip, plan your visit between late spring and early fall (May to October). This period offers the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, and all attractions are fully operational. However, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, especially for peak summer months, as these incredible resorts fill up quickly!
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $60 – $120 | $130 – $250 | $280 – $600+ |
| Food & Dining (per day) | $30 – $50 | $60 – $120 | $130 – $250+ |
| Transportation (per day) | Car Rental: $60 – $120 | Car Rental: $80 – $150 | Car Rental: $100 – $200+ |
| Parking (per day) | $0 – $10 | $0 – $15 | $0 – $20 |
| Activities & Attractions (avg daily) | $15 – $30 | $30 – $60 | $60 – $100+ |
| Total Daily Budget | $165 – $280 | $300 – $595 | $570 – $1190+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates | $1155 – $1960 | $2100 – $4165 | $3990 – $8330+ |
The Lodge at Deadwood
The Lodge at Deadwood offers an exhilarating blend of Wild West history and modern entertainment, making it a standout destination in the historic town of Deadwood. What truly sets this resort apart is its vibrant atmosphere, featuring a lively casino, an indoor water park perfect for families, and a variety of dining options. You can spend your mornings exploring the town’s legendary past, walking the same streets as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, then return to the lodge for a splash-filled afternoon at the water park, or try your luck at the gaming tables.
The resort’s proximity to Deadwood’s historic Main Street means you’re just steps away from unique shops, saloons, and museums. It’s an ideal spot for families seeking entertainment, couples looking for a mix of relaxation and excitement, and solo travelers interested in the local history and gaming scene. The lodge often hosts live entertainment and events, adding to its dynamic appeal.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
The Mount Rushmore Resort at Palmer Gulch
Nestled amidst the pine-covered hills just minutes from the iconic Mount Rushmore, The Mount Rushmore Resort at Palmer Gulch is an expansive retreat offering an unparalleled family vacation experience. What makes it unique is its incredible array of on-site activities and diverse accommodation options, ranging from tent sites and RV spots to cozy cabins and luxury lodges. You’ll find a massive water park, a chuckwagon supper show, mini-golf, horseback riding, and even a fishing pond.
It’s designed to be a self-contained adventure hub where boredom is simply not an option. Visitors can expect days filled with laughter and exploration, with the majestic backdrop of the Black Hills. This resort is absolutely perfect for families with children of all ages, offering something for everyone from toddlers to teens, and even grandparents. Its close proximity to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park makes it an excellent base for exploring the region’s top attractions.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
The Horse Thief Campsite and RV Resort
The Horse Thief Campsite and RV Resort offers a more rustic yet comfortable experience, perfectly situated for adventurers keen to explore the heart of the Black Hills. What makes this resort special is its direct connection to nature, providing a serene base camp just a stone’s throw from Mount Rushmore and the breathtaking beauty of Custer State Park.
Here, you’ll find a range of accommodations from primitive tent sites and full hook-up RV spots to charming cabins, catering to various levels of “roughing it.” Visitors can expect peaceful evenings under star-studded skies, easy access to hiking trails, and the chance to spot local wildlife. It’s an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts, families who love camping, and RV travelers looking for a well-equipped site in a prime location. The resort fosters a friendly, communal atmosphere, often hosting events like pancake breakfasts and outdoor movies during peak season.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
The Barefoot Resort
The Barefoot Resort, while not as widely known as some larger establishments, offers a charming and intimate lakeside escape, perfect for those seeking tranquility and water-based fun. Tucked away on the shores of a peaceful lake, this resort specializes in offering simple, comfortable accommodations – often in the form of cabins or bungalows – that emphasize direct access to the water. What makes it unique is its focus on a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere where the main attractions are swimming, fishing, kayaking, and simply unwinding by the shore.
You can expect quiet mornings with coffee on your porch, active afternoons on the lake, and serene evenings watching the sunset over the water. It’s an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic retreat, families desiring a classic lakeside vacation, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. The resort often provides boat rentals and fishing gear, enhancing the experience.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Lewis and Clark Lodge and Resort
Perched on the scenic shores of Lewis and Clark Lake, Lewis and Clark Lodge and Resort is a prime destination for water enthusiasts and families. Its unique appeal lies in its direct access to one of South Dakota’s largest and most popular reservoirs, offering endless opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. The resort provides a range of accommodations, from standard lodge rooms to spacious cabins, many with lake views.
Visitors can expect to spend their days out on the water, whether it’s wakeboarding, kayaking, or simply enjoying a leisurely boat ride. The resort often features a marina, boat rentals, and sometimes even a beach area. This location is perfect for families with active kids, fishing groups, and anyone who loves being on or near the water. The beautiful sunsets over the lake are an added bonus, creating a truly picturesque setting for your evenings.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Elk Creek Lodge and Resort
Elk Creek Lodge and Resort offers a serene escape into the northern Black Hills, providing a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness adventure. What makes this lodge distinctive is its rustic elegance and its prime location for outdoor activities, particularly for those interested in hunting, fishing, and exploring the vast forest lands. The accommodations often include well-appointed cabins and lodge rooms, designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Visitors can anticipate peaceful mornings, days filled with hiking or fishing in nearby Elk Creek, and evenings spent unwinding by a fireplace or under a canopy of stars. It’s an ideal retreat for avid hunters and anglers, nature photographers, and families looking for a quiet, active vacation away from the main tourist hubs. The lodge sometimes offers guided tours or provides information on local trails and fishing spots, enhancing your outdoor experience.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Cedar Shore Resort
Cedar Shore Resort, situated on the banks of the mighty Missouri River near Chamberlain, is a premier destination offering a diverse range of activities and amenities. Its unique appeal lies in its expansive facilities that cater to both leisure and adventure, including an 18-hole golf course, an indoor water park, and a marina for river access. You can expect days filled with golfing, splashing in the water park, or enjoying boat rides and fishing on the river.
The resort frequently hosts events, from weddings to conferences, adding a lively buzz to the atmosphere. Cedar Shore is an excellent choice for families seeking an all-in-one vacation spot, golf enthusiasts, and groups looking for a versatile venue. Its location also makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the central part of the state, offering beautiful river views and stunning sunsets.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Diamond Jewel Black Hills Mountain Cabins
Diamond Jewel Black Hills Mountain Cabins offers a truly enchanting and private retreat experience deep within the Black Hills. What sets these cabins apart is their emphasis on seclusion, comfort, and direct immersion in nature, often featuring luxurious amenities like hot tubs and full kitchens. Each cabin is uniquely designed, providing a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful family vacation.
You can expect breathtaking views, the soothing sounds of nature, and direct access to hiking trails right from your doorstep. It’s an ideal choice for couples seeking privacy and romance, families looking for a home-away-from-home in the wilderness, or anyone desiring a tranquil escape with modern comforts. The cabins are strategically located to offer both solitude and convenient access to nearby attractions like Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore, though a car is essential for exploration.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Legion Lake Lodge and Resort
Legion Lake Lodge and Resort, nestled within the stunning Custer State Park, offers a quintessential Black Hills experience centered around a picturesque lake. Its uniqueness lies in its historic charm combined with its serene lakeside setting, providing direct access to water activities and unparalleled wildlife viewing. The lodge features rustic yet comfortable rooms and cabins, many with beautiful lake views.
Visitors can expect tranquil mornings, days filled with kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing on Legion Lake, and evenings enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It’s an ideal destination for families seeking outdoor adventure, nature lovers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Custer State Park. The lodge’s restaurant often offers lakeside dining, making for a memorable culinary experience. Being inside the park means wildlife, like bison and deer, can often be seen nearby.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Red Rock River Resort and Spa
Red Rock River Resort and Spa (conceptualized as a wellness retreat in the Black Hills) offers a rejuvenating escape focused on holistic well-being and natural beauty. What makes this resort unique is its emphasis on spa services, tranquility, and integration with the surrounding landscape, providing a sanctuary for relaxation and renewal. Imagine luxurious spa treatments, wellness classes like yoga or meditation, and guided nature walks along nearby trails or a serene river.
The accommodations are designed for comfort and peace, often featuring private balconies with scenic views. Visitors can expect a calm and restorative atmosphere, where the focus is on personal wellness and connecting with nature. This resort is perfect for couples seeking a romantic and relaxing getaway, solo travelers on a wellness journey, or anyone desiring a peaceful retreat from daily stresses. The resort might also offer gourmet, health-conscious dining options.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Spearfish Canyon Lodge
Spearfish Canyon Lodge, nestled deep within the breathtaking Spearfish Canyon, is a true gem that offers an immersive experience in one of South Dakota’s most scenic natural wonders. Its unique appeal lies in its rustic yet elegant design, blending seamlessly with the dramatic canyon walls, towering pines, and the rushing waters of Spearfish Creek. What you can expect here is direct access to stunning waterfalls like Roughlock Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, along with countless hiking and biking trails.
The lodge itself provides a cozy, inviting atmosphere with a grand fireplace and comfortable rooms. This destination is perfect for outdoor adventurers, nature photographers, couples seeking a romantic and picturesque escape, and anyone who appreciates the raw beauty of the Black Hills. The fall foliage in Spearfish Canyon is particularly spectacular, making it a highly sought-after destination during that season.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Sylvan Lake Lodge
Sylvan Lake Lodge, an iconic stone and timber masterpiece, stands majestically overlooking the famous Sylvan Lake within Custer State Park. What makes this lodge truly unique is its unparalleled setting amidst towering granite Needles and the crystal-clear waters of the lake, offering some of the most breathtaking views in the entire state. The lodge itself exudes historic charm and comfort, providing a serene escape.
Visitors can expect direct access to the lake for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as numerous hiking trails, including the popular trail to Harney Peak (Black Elk Peak). It’s an ideal choice for nature lovers, avid hikers, photographers, and families looking for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Black Hills. The sunsets over Sylvan Lake are legendary, creating a magical atmosphere each evening.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
The State Game Lodge
The State Game Lodge, a grand historic lodge nestled within Custer State Park, holds a special place in American history as the “Summer White House” for Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Dwight D. Eisenhower. What makes this lodge truly exceptional is its rich historical significance combined with its prime location for wildlife viewing.
You can expect elegant accommodations, often with original period furnishings, and the chance to spot bison, elk, and deer right from the lodge grounds. It’s an ideal base for exploring the Wildlife Loop Road, where you’re almost guaranteed to encounter the park’s famous bison herd. This lodge is perfect for history buffs, wildlife enthusiasts, and families seeking a blend of comfort and adventure. The lodge also offers unique experiences like open-air jeep tours into the bison herd, providing an up-close and personal encounter with nature.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Blue Bell Lodge
Blue Bell Lodge, another charming retreat within Custer State Park, offers a more rustic and authentic Western experience. What truly sets Blue Bell apart is its focus on equestrian activities and its renowned Chuckwagon Cookout, providing a taste of the Old West. The accommodations are cozy cabins and lodge rooms, exuding a warm, inviting atmosphere.
You can expect days filled with horseback riding through scenic trails, enjoying hearty Western meals, and relaxing in a laid-back, friendly environment. It’s an excellent choice for families with children who love horses, couples seeking a unique Western adventure, and anyone looking for a relaxed, authentic Black Hills experience. The Chuckwagon Cookout, complete with hayrides and cowboy entertainment, is a highlight that creates lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
💰 Quick Cost Guide
📍 Visitor Information
Plan Your Visit
South Dakota, with its stunning landscapes and welcoming spirit, is truly a destination that surprises and delights. From the historic charm of the Black Hills to the tranquil beauty of its lakes and rivers, this state offers a resort experience unlike any other.
You’ve now seen how each of these 14 incredible resorts provides a unique gateway to adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories, whether you’re seeking thrilling water parks, serene lakeside retreats, or historic lodges nestled among wildlife. Don’t just dream about it – start planning your South Dakota adventure today! Remember to book your accommodations early, especially during peak season, and consider traveling during the shoulder months for potentially lower costs and fewer crowds. With a little planning, you can craft a personalized itinerary that fits your budget and fulfills your travel desires, ensuring a trip to South Dakota that you’ll cherish forever.
