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South Dakota
12

South Dakota State Parks

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USA Parks
South Dakota
Southeast South Dakota Region
Palisades State Park
Picnic Table © stateparks.com
It is always a great day for a picnic in the park.
Spring Hike © stateparks.com
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PALISADES STATE PARK
PALISADES STATE PARK
25491 485th Avenue
Garretson, South Dakota   57030
(lat:43.6905 lon:-96.5126) map location

Phone: 605.594.3824
Reservations: 800.710.2267
Email: park email button icon
Palisades State Park is one of the most unique areas in South Dakota. Split Rock Creek, which flows through the park, is lined with Sioux quartzite formations varying from shelves several feet above the water to 50-foot vertical cliffs. Scenic overlooks and rushing water make Palisades a popular getaway. The park is popular among campers, photographers, sightseers, picnickers, rock climbers and hikers.

A huge flour mill was once located on the bluff overlooking the park. The mill was powered by a large water-wheel installed along the rushing Split Rock Creek. The once-bustling town of Palisades grew up around the success of the mill. In 1886, silver was discovered downstream. The silver ore proved to be low in quality, however, and the nearly 300 claims were quickly dropped.

For millions of years, Split Rock Creek cut deep gorges through Palisades State Park. Geologists estimate the Sioux quartzite spires are 1.2 billion years old. Four hiking trails twist and turn through these beautiful Sioux quartzite formations. The cliffs and formations at Palisades are used by rock climbers to practice their scaling and rappelling techniques. Bolting is not allowed on the quartzite formations. Please contact the park before you head out for other climbing regulations.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in a serene environment, with options for both shore and boat angling. Expect to catch catfish, walleye or bass. The Split Rock Creek is also home to bullheads and northern pike. A valid South Dakota Fishing License is required before casting your line.


Location
Palisades State Park is located near Brandon, Sioux Falls

Picnicking
1. Palisades State Park offers numerous picnic shelters with grills.
2. Enjoy a riverside meal at the park's many scenic spots.
3. Reserve group picnic areas for larger gatherings in advance.
4. Picnic tables are scattered throughout, offering stunning views of cliffs and waterways.
5. Bring your own food or use on-site BBQ facilities to cook meals outdoors.

Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts should be aware that the park offers limited options. The terrain is quite rugged and challenging.

There are no designated bike trails within this natural reserve, making it less suitable for casual riders.

Mountain biking can potentially occur on certain hiking paths but proceed with caution due to rocky surfaces.

The Split Rock Creek area might offer some off-road cycling opportunities; however, safety precautions must always come first.

Remember: helmets are a necessity when navigating through uneven terrains or steep inclines in any outdoor setting.

Ensure you respect other trail users such as hikers and wildlife while exploring these areas by bicycle.

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Area Campgrounds
Sioux Falls KOA
1401 East Robur Drive
Sioux Falls, SD
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park
26014 478th Avenue
Brandon, SD
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

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South Dakota
12

South Dakota State Parks

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