Top Stops Spirit Mound Historic Prairie Early in their journey, Lewis and Clark visited this site, which Lakota tradition held was inhabited by 18-inch-tall devils armed with arrows. Rather than devils, the explorers spotted a huge herd of bison grazing in the distance. Lewis and Clark Recreation Area With hiking, biking, camping and boating, this natural playground is one of South Dakota’s most popular state parks. Check out Indigenous artifacts and a variety of historical exhibits at the nearby Mead Museum . Pickstown In the heart of the Yankton Sioux Reservation, there’s much to explore around Pickstown. Start at Fort Randall Dam Visitor Center (open Memorial Day through Labor Day), which has everything from scenic lookouts to a freshwater aquarium. Spot bald eagles, considered sacred in Native culture, at Randall Creek Recreation Area . The Yankton Sioux Tribe’s Fort Randall Casino & Hotel is a great place to bed down for the night. Chamberlain Just off Interstate 90, Dignity: Of Earth & Sky is a 50-foot statue that honors the Native cultures of South Dakota. Next door, step onto the keelboat-shaped balcony of the Lewis & Clark Welcome Center for glittering views of Lake Francis Case. Also in Chamberlain, Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center offers an immersive journey through Native history, heritage and art. Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center Big Bend of the Missouri Forming nearly a complete loop, this geological wonder made it into William Clark’s journal on Sept. 20, 1804. Visit Narrows Historical Interpretive Area to see the bend at its thinnest point, or splash into some outdoor fun at West Bend Recreation Area . The Crow Creek and Lower Brule reservations lie on either side of the bend. Fischers Lilly Park Where the Bad River meets the Missouri, this park was the site of an armed standoff between the Corps of Discovery and local Teton Lakota that nearly ended the expedition. Today, there are campsites and a plaque telling the story of the “Bad River Encounter.” Nearby LaFramboise Island and Farm Island Recreation Area hold more history. 12 // #HiFromSD
South Dakota Scenic Drives Guide South Dakota Scenic Drives '24: Page 12
