Devils Gulch Park
Explore the legendary Wild West hideout of Jesse James, marvel at ancient Sioux Quartzite cliffs, and discover a charming waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Devils Gulch Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the legendary Wild West hideout of Jesse James, marvel at ancient Sioux Quartzite cliffs, and discover a charming waterfall.
"A beautiful hidden gem with pretty bridges and waterfalls, a doable hike, and absolutely gorgeous."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails are mostly dirt, so wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bring Cash for Donations
Support the park's upkeep by donating or buying small trinkets at the gift shop. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sioux Quartzite Cliffs
Stunning, ancient rock formations offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into geological history.
Jesse James Legend
Discover the legendary spot where Jesse James supposedly leaped his horse across the gulch.
Devils Gulch Waterfall
A charming waterfall cascading down the rocks, offering a serene and picturesque natural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild West Lore
Trail Conditions & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails are mostly dirt, so wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bring Cash for Donations
Support the park's upkeep by donating or buying small trinkets at the gift shop. :moneybag:
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Trails can be a bit confusing; listen for the water to help guide you. :compass:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The Sioux Quartzite cliffs are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails are mostly dirt, so wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bring Cash for Donations
Support the park's upkeep by donating or buying small trinkets at the gift shop. :moneybag:
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Trails can be a bit confusing; listen for the water to help guide you. :compass:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The Sioux Quartzite cliffs are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🚫 Leave No Trace
Help keep this beautiful spot pristine by not littering and picking up any trash you see. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Devils Gulch Park as a beautiful, hidden gem with stunning Sioux Quartzite cliffs and a charming waterfall. It's a perfect quick stop for families and history buffs, offering a glimpse into Wild West lore. While small, its natural beauty and affordability make it a worthwhile detour.
"I can't even begin to describe how beautiful the Sioux Quartzite cliffs are, so I'm just going to let the pictures speak for themselves. It was a nice, breezy walk, and there wasn't any particularly difficult hiking involved so everyone of (most) ages can enjoy the views for the few hours they spend here."
Caleb Rosser
"Beautiful hidden gem, has pretty bridges and waterfalls, has a pretty doable hike and is absolutely gorgeous.
It's not paved, it's mostly a dirt trail
It's definitely a site worth stopping by with the family and kids or by yourself!!!
They have wonderful staff, very helpful
I'd recommend bringing cash to be able to buy lil trinkets !!
or to donate to keep it going!:)
(very affordable stuff most is $1 or $10 bucks)
If you have the time and energy I highly recommend giving it chance!!!
Please keep the site beautiful & please don’t litter, or if you see something please help and pick it up:)"
Jasmin
"This is a very small but neat park to walk around. We didnt spend more than 30 minutes here, making it a great place to get out and stretch your legs. Theres a small waterfall you can walk to, and a bridge across the Gulch. There is a gift shop there but it was closed when we visited."
The Wayward Nurse
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devils Gulch Park is located in Garretson, South Dakota. It's a scenic drive from Sioux Falls, typically under an hour. Many visitors use a rental car for easy access.
Absolutely! Devils Gulch Park is a perfect stop for a day trip, especially if you're exploring the Sioux Falls area. It's a great place to stretch your legs for a few hours.
While the trails are mostly dirt and can be a bit confusing, listening for the sound of water can help guide you towards the waterfall and gulch.
Devils Gulch Park is a great addition to a trip to Sioux Falls, which offers attractions like Falls Park and the Old Courthouse Museum.
Yes, Devils Gulch Park is not too far from the Minnesota border, making it an accessible destination for those in southern Minnesota.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to enter Devils Gulch Park, but donations are highly encouraged to help maintain the site.
The park is generally open during daylight hours. The gift shop may have limited hours, as noted by visitors.
No, Devils Gulch Park is free to enter. However, visitors are encouraged to make donations to support its upkeep.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can buy trinkets and souvenirs. Bringing cash is recommended for these purchases.
Visiting Devils Gulch Park is free, though donations are appreciated to help preserve the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the Sioux Quartzite cliffs, walk the dirt trails, see the waterfall, and learn about the legend of Jesse James. It's a great spot for a short hike and enjoying nature.
The park offers some nice dirt trails for walking and light hiking. It's not a strenuous hike, making it accessible for most visitors.
The terrain consists of Sioux Quartzite cliffs and mostly dirt trails. It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear.
Yes, it's a great place for families. The trails are manageable, and the natural beauty and legends can capture children's imaginations.
Most visitors spend around 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how much they want to explore the trails and enjoy the scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The Sioux Quartzite cliffs, the waterfall, and the bridge across the gulch offer fantastic photo opportunities. The natural light can be beautiful, especially in the morning.
Yes, the unique rock formations, the waterfall, and the surrounding natural landscape make it a great spot for nature photography.
Morning light often provides softer, more flattering light for photography, especially for the cliffs and waterfall.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and park guidelines before flying a drone.
The areas around the waterfall and the bridge offer excellent vantage points. Exploring the trails will reveal various scenic spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Quick Stop & Leg Stretcher
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Jesse James
This historical connection makes Devils Gulch more than just a scenic spot; it's a place where visitors can connect with a piece of American folklore. The dramatic landscape of the Sioux Quartzite cliffs likely fueled the imagination, making it a plausible, albeit daring, escape route for an outlaw on the run. It's a story that continues to capture the imagination of those who visit.
Geological Wonders: The Sioux Quartzite
These formations are not only visually impressive but also offer a glimpse into the region's deep past. The sheer beauty of the cliffs, with their varying hues and rugged surfaces, makes them a focal point for visitors. Photographers and nature enthusiasts alike will find the geological features of Devils Gulch Park particularly captivating.
Exploring the Trails and Waterfall
The Devils Gulch Waterfall is a highlight, offering a peaceful spot to relax and admire the natural beauty. It's a picturesque feature that adds to the park's appeal, especially for those seeking a tranquil natural setting. The combination of the trails, cliffs, and waterfall makes Devils Gulch Park a delightful place for a short outdoor excursion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit