State Parks

Photo © Chad Coppess

Palisades State Park

Palisades State Park is one of the most unique areas in South Dakota. Split Rock Creek, which flows through the park, is lined with Sioux quartzite formations varying from shelves several feet above the water to 50-foot vertical cliffs. Scenic overlooks and rushing water make Palisades a popular getaway. The park is popular among campers, photographers, sightseers, picnickers, rock climbers and hikers.

A huge flour mill was once located on the bluff overlooking the park. The mill was powered by a large water-wheel installed along the rushing Split Rock Creek. The once-bustling town of Palisades grew up around the success of the mill. In 1886, silver was discovered downstream. The silver ore proved to be low in quality, however, and the nearly 300 claims were quickly dropped.

For millions of years, Split Rock Creek cut deep gorges through Palisades State Park. Geologists estimate the Sioux quartzite spires are 1.2 billion years old. Four hiking trails twist and turn through these beautiful Sioux quartzite formations. The cliffs and formations at Palisades are used by rock climbers to practice their scaling and rappelling techniques. Bolting is not allowed on the quartzite formations. Please contact the park before you head out for other climbing regulations.

Palisades Lodge

This lodge has four bedrooms that sleep up to 12 people. It also offers a full kitchen, dining area and relaxation room. The back deck has a great view of the creek and Sioux quartzite rock formations. This is a perfect site for small weddings, small family reunions and meetings.

Reservations

Lodge is reservable up to one year in advance. Those planning any event expecting more than 50 people MUST contact the park before making reservations.

campsd.com
1.800.710.2267

About the Lodge

$240 per night; $10 for each person over 12 people
Sleeps up to 12 people
4 bedrooms
2 bathrooms
Furnished
Air conditioned and heated
Wi-Fi
Event Shelter adjacent to the lodge; $50/night. Includes tables and chairs for up to 60 people.
Propane grill with propane
Furnished kitchen with cookware, place settings, and common utensils
General cleaning supplies for kitchen and bathrooms
Toilet paper
Trash can liners
Outside fire ring for wood campfires (wood available for purchase at park entrance station)
Adjacent 20-30-50 amp electrical hookup with additional fee for 1 hard-sided RV unit (contact the park for approval and payment).

Restrictions

Linens are not provided
No pets allowed inside
Tents

Activities

Birdwatching
Camping
Canoeing/Kayaking
Fishing
Hiking
Historical interest
Rock Climbing
Snowshoeing
Volleyball

Fees

Daily: $6 per vehicle
Annual: $30 first vehicle | $15 for second vehicle | $65 transferable license
Campsites - electrical: $19
Campsites - non-electrical: $15
Camping Cabins: $40 per night

Park Specs

Open: Year-round

Park Size: 34 campsites, 6 cabins (each sleeps 4 people) and a group lodge

Directions:

10 miles north of I-90, Brandon Exit 406

Nearest Town: Garretson

Make Reservations

Make reservation online or call 1.800.710.CAMP (2267).

Maps

Contact Info

Palisades State Park
25491 485th Avenue
Garretson, SD 57030
605.594.3824
Email: PalisadesPark@state.sd.us

Amenities

Campground
Camping cabins
Drinking water
Electric campsites
Flush toilets/showers
Game checkout
Lodge
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Vault toilets

Park Rating

ADA / Accessible

Camping Cabins
Camping Site
Lodge
Picnic Shelter
Showers

GPS Coordinates

Latitude: 43.68764
Longitude: -96.51717