MISSOURI RIVER REGION bucket list must-dos 1 SD MISSOURI RIVER LAKES Four beautiful lakes are at the center of activity for water sports and recreation along the Missouri River. The lakes cross the line between the forested flat-lands of the humid eastern states and the arid grassy plains of the foothills and mountains of the dry western states, giving each a distinct landscape. They are Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, Lake Francis Case, Lewis & Clark Lake , and if you aren’t going out on one of these waters, you can at least enjoy the view of them from the Native American Scenic Byway . SUNFLOWER FIELDS In late summer and early fall, roughly end of July through August, blooming sunflower fields surround the river. Sully County is the nation’s top producer of sunflowers, the land just north of Pierre, South Dakota’s capitol. Driving through the area will give you stunning views of bobbing heads of gold for miles around – they are the perfect stop for a quick photo-shoot. Come see the Sunflower Festival in Highmore in August! STARGAZING: MILKY WAY GALAXY The Missouri River region is sparsely populated even in its biggest towns. Driving just 15 -20 minutes into the countryside, away from any dwellings, on a clear moonless night will reveal a sky full of stars and the dusty clouds of the Milky Way Galaxy , and if you’re far enough north, and lucky, the Northern Lights. Along the Mighty Missouri River 4 WESTERN RODEOS There are dozens of rodeos that take place annually across the state, varying 2 3 188 // #SDMissouriRiver
South Dakota Vacation Guide 2024 South Dakota Vacation Guide: Page 188
