Big Sioux River Recreation Trail and Greenway
A scenic park along the Big Sioux River, offering hiking, camping, disc golf, and a peaceful escape into nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful exploration
Big Sioux River Recreation Trail and Greenway
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic park along the Big Sioux River, offering hiking, camping, disc golf, and a peaceful escape into nature.
"AMAZING place to go when your wanting to get away from city life but not really. "
🚗 Season Pass Savings
Get a season pass to avoid daily entrance fees on top of camping costs. :ticket:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Campsites don't have water; fill up at the dump station. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Big Sioux River Trails
Throughout the park
Explore paved and unpaved paths along the scenic river, perfect for hiking and biking. Look for beaver activity!
Disc Golf Course
Near the river
A fun and challenging disc golf course with a unique cable bridge crossing the river.
Wooded Campsites
Campsites 24-26
Experience a true tent camping vibe in these secluded, wooded sites.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Camping & Bonfires
Park Fees & Passes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Season Pass Savings
Get a season pass to avoid daily entrance fees on top of camping costs. :ticket:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Campsites don't have water; fill up at the dump station. :droplet:
🥾 Trail Variety
Enjoy both paved and unpaved trails for hiking and biking. :athletic_shoe:
🐿️ Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for beavers and other wildlife along the river. :chipmunk:
Big Sioux Recreation Area in Brandon, SD - June 3, 2022
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Season Pass Savings
Get a season pass to avoid daily entrance fees on top of camping costs. :ticket:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Campsites don't have water; fill up at the dump station. :droplet:
🥾 Trail Variety
Enjoy both paved and unpaved trails for hiking and biking. :athletic_shoe:
🐿️ Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for beavers and other wildlife along the river. :chipmunk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the beautiful natural setting and diverse trails, perfect for hiking and disc golf. The wooded campsites offer a great escape, though some note issues with trash and unexpected entrance fees. Overall, it's a well-maintained park with plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts.
"AMAZING place to go when your wanting to get away from city life but not really. Hiking trails are definitely something everyone should enjoy. I came out here and decided to extend our stay. Would definitely get a season pass or you will be paying 10 per day to have your car with you on top of your spot. Tent spots 24-26 are in the woods and let me tell you... TO DIE FOR if your looking for the full tent experience vs tent spots 48-50 are in a open field next to the playground so ideal for families! The cabins are adorable looking on the outside and look cozy inside."
Glenna Lamp
"This campgrounds has nice lots with amazing space between each campsite. The shower house is clean, it doesn’t have water at the campsite so be sure to grab some at the fill and dump station. It has some great trails near the river, some are paved and some are not. The disk golf course is also fun to hike, it has a cable bridge over the river. We completely enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend staying there."
Donald Van Burkleo
"Overall disappointed with this park. We arrived around 8pm for camping for one night. The first thing I noticed was our site had a lot of trash which we removed prior to departure. The trash dumpster was also overflowing. We took hot showers which was wonderful. Shortly after our shower we were approached by another camper inquiring about our van camper. She asked a lot of strange questions and was lingering about. Then the camp host approached us and the first thing he asked was whether we paid the park entrance fees. What park entrance fees? We paid $30 for camping and now they want another $15 on top of that. It's a rip off. We will not be returning to this park. Anyone who says "God Bless" to you without knowing anything about your religion is annoying and pushy. On a positive note, the campground is quiet and the hiking trails and the foot bridge are nice!"
Amanda Sharrai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Big Sioux River Recreation Trail and Greenway is accessible by car. Specific directions can be found on the park's official website or by using GPS navigation. +1
Public transportation options to the park are limited. It is generally recommended to travel by personal vehicle. +1
There are multiple access points along the Big Sioux River Recreation Trail and Greenway, with designated parking areas for trail users.
While the park has biking trails, reaching the park itself by bike may depend on your starting location and local road infrastructure.
The Big Sioux River Recreation Trail and Greenway is located near several towns, offering amenities for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a daily entrance fee per vehicle, in addition to camping fees if you plan to stay overnight. Consider a season pass for frequent visits.
The park is generally open year-round, but specific hours for facilities like campgrounds and visitor centers may vary. It's best to check the official park website for current hours.
Camping fees vary depending on the type of site (tent, RV, cabin). Expect to pay around $30 per night for a standard campsite, with additional fees for entrance.
Yes, booking campsites in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred spot.
Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, or through season passes. Check with the park administration for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking, biking, disc golf, camping, and enjoying the natural scenery along the river. Winter activities like snowshoeing are also possible.
The park offers a mix of paved and unpaved trails, with varying terrain. Some trails are more challenging than others, but many are accessible for most fitness levels.
Yes, the campground offers clean shower houses and restrooms. However, water is not available at individual campsites; you'll need to fill up at the dump station.
While bonfires are a popular camping activity, it's essential to check the park's specific regulations regarding open fires and designated fire pit usage.
Pets are generally allowed in the park and campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after. Some specific areas might have restrictions.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverbanks, wooded areas, and the disc golf course's cable bridge offer scenic photo opportunities. Look for wildlife like beavers.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light for photography, creating beautiful golden hour shots along the river.
Keep an eye out for the trees chewed by beavers near the river, and the diverse plant life along the trails.
Drone usage is subject to park regulations. It's crucial to check the park's official policy on drone operation before flying.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both landscapes and potential wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring plenty of water, as it's not available at individual campsites. Also, be prepared for potential park entrance fees on top of camping costs. Consider a season pass if you plan on frequent family outings to this park.
🏕️ Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
When exploring the trails, be mindful of the terrain, especially on the unpaved sections, which can be uneven. The presence of beaver activity near the river is a unique feature, with many trees showing signs of their work. This adds an element of natural wonder to the hiking experience.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, the disc golf course also serves as a scenic hiking route, complete with a memorable cable bridge that spans the Big Sioux River. This offers not only a recreational challenge but also fantastic views and photo opportunities.
Camping Experience
While the campground provides clean shower houses and restrooms, a key point to remember is that water is not available at individual campsites. Campers need to fill up their water containers at the designated fill and dump station.
It's also important to be aware of potential park entrance fees in addition to camping fees. Some campers have found this an unexpected cost. If you plan on visiting multiple times, purchasing a season pass can be a more economical option.
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