Palisades State Park Tours

Photo by Lynn Glashauser
Photo by Lynn Glashauser
Photo by Erik Rowley
Photo by Erik Rowley
Photo by Erik Rowley


Picturesque landscapes, walking paths, native animals and plants ... Palisades State Park has all the ingredients you need for the ideal day outdoors. Fill your daypack with snacks and water and surround yourself in nature.

This protected natural landscape is just one stop you'll want to make in Garretson. Wilde Prairie Winery is near Palisades State Park and will be a great addition to your travels through the area.

Plan a trip to see Palisades State Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Valley Inn
Hotel On Phillips
Gateway Park Hotel and Suites

Reviews of Palisades State Park

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
10
5 - Excellent 67%
4 - Good
4
4 - Good 27%
3 - Okay
0
3 - Okay 0%
2 - Disappointing
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2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 7%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Went to Devil's Gulch. Pretty cool. Hiking shoes and/or water shoes recommended.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Around 30 minute drive. Beautiful rock formations in a river feeding into the Great Sioux Falls River. Very easy hiking trains. Clean bathrooms are at the camping sight, which is an easy walk to anywhere in the parki. Well worth the $6 entry fee for a daily pass to all state parks ($6 per vehicle).

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Don't take the survey

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveler

did not go

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Palisades State Park

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Brandon by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Brandon by IHG

2.5 out of 5
1103 N Splitrock Blvd, Brandon, SD
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Brandon by IHG
Quality Inn

Quality Inn

2.5 out of 5
1105 N Splitrock Blvd, Brandon, SD
Quality Inn
Days Inn by Wyndham Sioux Falls Airport

Days Inn by Wyndham Sioux Falls Airport

2 out of 5
5001 N Cliff Ave, Sioux Falls, SD
Days Inn by Wyndham Sioux Falls Airport
Econo Lodge North

Econo Lodge North

2 out of 5
5100 N Cliff Ave, Sioux Falls, SD
Econo Lodge North
Ramada by Wyndham Sioux Falls Airport-Waterpark & Event Ctr

Ramada by Wyndham Sioux Falls Airport-Waterpark & Event Ctr

3 out of 5
1301 West Russell, I-29 and Exit 81, Sioux Falls, SD
Ramada by Wyndham Sioux Falls Airport-Waterpark & Event Ctr
Comfort Inn & Suites at Sanford Sports Complex

Comfort Inn & Suites at Sanford Sports Complex

2.5 out of 5
3900 N HERCULES AVE, Sioux Falls, SD
Comfort Inn & Suites at Sanford Sports Complex
AeroStay Hotel

AeroStay Hotel

2.5 out of 5
2821 N Jaycee Lane, Sioux Falls, SD
AeroStay Hotel
Hotel On Phillips

Hotel On Phillips

2.5 out of 5
100 N Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls, SD
Hotel On Phillips
Super 8 by Wyndham Sioux Falls

Super 8 by Wyndham Sioux Falls

2 out of 5
2616 E 10th St, Sioux Falls, SD
Super 8 by Wyndham Sioux Falls
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Palisades State Park

Palisades State Park in Garretson, South Dakota, offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors. Enjoy camping at designated sites, hike scenic trails that showcase the park's unique rock formations, and try your hand at rock climbing. Wildlife watching is abundant, providing opportunities to spot local fauna, while the stunning landscapes make for excellent photography. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Palisades State Park has something for everyone.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is the local stores in Garretson, featuring unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Empire Mall, located 18 miles away, where you can enjoy a variety of shops, entertainment, and dining experiences in a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

At Big Sioux Recreation Area, enjoy serene trails perfect for walking or biking, surrounded by nature's beauty. For golf enthusiasts, both Hidden Valley Golf Course and Brandon Golf Course offer pristine fairways and outdoor leisure, allowing you to unwind while enjoying a round of golf in the fresh air.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of skiing at Great Bear Recreation Park, located 11 miles from Palisades State Park, where you can enjoy a variety of slopes. For a splash of fun, visit Wild Water West, 23 miles away, perfect for family adventures and entertainment. Explore the scenic Circle Trail, 24 miles distant, for outdoor exploration.

Nightlife

Experience the charming nightlife near Palisades State Park with a visit to the Dells Theater for a cultural evening, or enjoy family fun at Thunder Road Family Fun Park. For a romantic outing, the Edith Mortenson Theatre Center offers captivating performances to round out your night.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Palisades State Park

Palisades State Park in Garretson, South Dakota, offers a blend of family-friendly outdoor adventures and urban experiences. Visitors can explore stunning natural landscapes, enjoy engaging exhibits, and visit local libraries. Whether you're hiking through the park or relaxing in state park cabins, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful area, making it an ideal spot for a memorable vacation.

  • Catfish Bay Water Ski Park: Located 12 miles from Palisades State Park, this vibrant water ski park offers thrilling shows and exhibitions, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline boost while enjoying the cultural vibe of the area.
  • Stone Ridge Park: Just 7 miles away, this urban park is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush green spaces and recreational facilities, it provides a perfect setting for picnics, sports, and leisurely strolls in a city atmosphere.
  • Brandon Community Library: Also 7 miles from the park, this welcoming library is a hub for family activities and cultural enrichment, offering various programs and resources for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Best time to go to Palisades State Park

The best time to visit Palisades State Park is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January16.9°F (-8.4°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February19.2°F (-7.1°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March34.7°F (1.5°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November36.1°F (2.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December22.8°F (-5.1°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Palisades State Park

To save money on your trip to Palisades State Park, consider visiting between December and February when prices are lower. Booking your stay on a Monday rather than a Saturday can also help cut costs. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals that combine flights, accommodations, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn rewards for future bookings. Additionally, take advantage of free park activities like hiking and picnicking to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Palisades State Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Palisades State Park is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Palisades State Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy for you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organize your results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Palisades State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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