Western Region

 

Commonly referred to as the Black Hills, South Dakota’s Western Region features many well known attractions including Mount Rushmore, Badlands, Crazy Horse, Sturgis Rally and so much more.

Mount Rushmore

Each year, more than 3 million travelers visit South Dakota’s top attraction, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located 25 miles southwest of Rapid City, South Dakota. The majestic granite sculpture of Mount Rushmore commemorates four powerful presidents who helped shape our nation: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

The Badlands

One of the most popular attractions in western South Dakota, the Badlands National Park provides its visitors dazzling views of beautiful, striking rock-like formations. The buttes, pinnacles, and spires formed by winds and glacial erosion more than 35 million years ago enchant the over one million annual visitors to The Badlands National Park.

South Dakota’s western region is a stark contrast to the eastern & central regions of the state. It has some of the most well-known attractions in the state, including Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. Western South Dakota offers a captivating blend of rugged landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the majestic peaks of the Black Hills to the sprawling plains of the Badlands, this region beckons adventurers and explorers alike.

Discover the iconic Mount Rushmore, where the faces of four American presidents are etched into the granite cliffs, or journey through the otherworldly terrain of Badlands National Park, where dramatic rock formations and fossil beds tell tales of ancient creatures.

Delve into the storied past of the Wild West at historic towns like Deadwood and Lead, where legends of gold rushes and outlaws come to life. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a scenic drive through the heart of the Great Plains, Western South Dakota offers endless opportunities for discovery and inspiration.

Things To Do In Western South Dakota

The Western Region in South Dakota features millions of travelers every year. Whether you are looking for something to do, a place to stay, an attraction, outdoor activities, or a nearby restaurant there are endless opportunities in the region. Take a peak at some of the many area hotspots below.

Storybook Island

Storybook Island

Rapid City

Dakotah Steakhouse

Dakotah Steakhouse

Rapid City

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

Spearfish

The Covered Wagon Cafe

The Covered Wagon Cafe

Murdo

Crooked Creek Campground & Resort

Crooked Creek Campground & Resort

Hill City

Hotel Alex Johnson

Hotel Alex Johnson

Rapid City

Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground

Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground

Keystone

Dakota Frontier Tours

Dakota Frontier Tours

Custer

Tru by Hilton

Tru by Hilton

Deadwood

Moccasin Springs

Moccasin Springs

Hot Springs

Days Inn Spearfish

Days Inn Spearfish

Spearfish

Naked Winery

Naked Winery

Hill City

The Journey Museum & Learning Center

The Journey Museum & Learning Center

Rapid City

Sunset Motel & RV Park

Sunset Motel & RV Park

Belle Fourche

Days of 76 Campground

Days of 76 Campground

Deadwood

Chris’ Campground & RV Park

Chris’ Campground & RV Park

Spearfish

Great Faces. Great Places.

South Dakota is an incredibly unique state in that each region offers a completely different experience then the others. Check out each of the regions to see what each has to offer!

Badlands

Western South Dakota

Featuring the Black Hills, Badlands, the Sturgis Rally. This region tends to be the most popular.

CENTRAL REGION

This region of South Dakota offers some of the best hunting and fishing in the entire central US. 

Eastern Region

The eastern region is home to the largest city in the state and provides visitors with a true "prairie" experience.