Sioux Falls is a beautiful destination for camping enthusiasts, with a wide range of exciting activities for both kids and adults. From hiking trails to fishing spots, this city has everything you need to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, these activities are sure to keep you entertained and engaged throughout your trip.
People don’t like camping at a public campground because there is “nothing to do.” Quite the contrary, public campground sites often offer a plethora of activities for the whole family to enjoy! Here are just a few.
Hiking
What is the most popular activity to do while camping? You guessed it, hiking. The majority of public campgrounds have hiking trails that are open to the campers. Hiking is so much fun and also offers great exercise.
Trails are usually graded for their difficulty. Trails with great hills, rough terrain, and unclear paths would typically be rated as more difficult than a nice flat trail with few obstacles. Regardless of your hiking preferences, there is a trail for everyone in the family.
With over 50 parks and greenways, there’s no shortage of options for outdoor enthusiasts in Sioux Falls. Falls Park is a must-see destination, with its stunning waterfalls and scenic overlooks. The park also features paved walking trails and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family outing.
Another popular hiking destination is the Great Bear Recreation Park. This park offers over 200 acres of outdoor fun, including hiking trails, camping, and skiing in the winter months. Families can explore the park’s many trails, which wind through forests and fields, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
For families with younger children, the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and East Sioux Falls Historic Site is a great option. This park features easy walking trails that are perfect for little legs, as well as educational exhibits on the area’s history and ecology. No matter what your family’s hiking skill level, Sioux Falls has something for everyone.
Swimming
Another great activity to participate in while camping with your family is swimming. Many campgrounds are conveniently located on a lake or a pond so that campers can enjoy the water. Swimming is also great exercise and is tons of fun.
A lot of campgrounds also offer different water activities like kayaks, paddle boats, water slides, or canoes for campers to rent. If the campsite is not on a lake, there usually is a pool available for the campers to swim in instead.
The city is home to several lakes and rivers, all of which offer excellent fishing opportunities. Lake Alvin is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with its abundance of walleye, perch, and crappie. Families can also enjoy swimming and boating in the lake’s crystal-clear waters.
For families looking for a more secluded fishing experience, the Big Sioux River is a great option. This river offers excellent trout fishing, as well as beautiful scenery and wildlife sightings. Families can spend the day wading in the river, casting their lines, and enjoying the peace and quiet of the great outdoors.
Games
So you’ve swum and hiked your heart out so far on your camping trip. What else can you do? Public campgrounds typically have game courts available for the campers to use. Basketball courts, tennis courts, and volleyball courts are just some of the resources available for you and your family to play with while you’re camping.
Whether you want to rough it out and stay in tents or lives in luxury with campground cabin rentals, a camping trip is a great vacation for the whole family!
For families looking for a more structured activity, disc golf is a fun option. The city has several disc golf courses, including Tuthill Park and Big Sioux Recreation Area. Disc golf is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of Sioux Falls.
Local Attractions
While camping in Sioux Falls, there are plenty of local attractions to explore. If you’re interested in history, the Pettigrew Home and Museum is a must-visit destination. This historic home offers a glimpse into the life of one of Sioux Falls’ most prominent citizens.
For families with younger children, the Butterfly House and Aquarium is a fun and educational destination. This indoor attraction features hundreds of butterflies, as well as a variety of aquatic creatures.
Finally, no trip to Sioux Falls is complete without a visit to the famous SculptureWalk. This outdoor art exhibit features over 50 sculptures, each one more impressive than the last. Families can spend the day wandering through the exhibit, taking in the stunning artwork and learning about the artists behind each piece.
Camping in Sioux Falls is a great way to spend quality time with your family while enjoying the natural beauty of this stunning city. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply spending time around the campfire, Sioux Falls has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your tents, and get ready for a family adventure you’ll never forget!
