From Black Hills National Forest to Badlands National Park, South Dakota is an enticing example of the United States’ midwestern beauty. This thinly populated state displays an awe-inspiring and far-reaching terrain, with gently rolling meadows dramatically interrupted by the eye-catching Black Hills mountain range. Tourist hot spots include the landmark Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial that pays homage to the Native American warrior. If your family longs for adventure, then South Dakota is the place. To add comfort as well as warm hospitality to your visit, you must scroll down to see the top family-friendly resorts in South Dakota, USA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to family-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.
1. Lewis & Clark Resort - Yankton (from USD 103)
Reasonable pricing comparable to local motels/hotels.
Nice pool, playground, and access to various activities such as boating, biking, and hiking.
Beautiful location along the Missouri River with scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Good dining options nearby, though some guests wished for complimentary breakfast.
Lewis & Clark Resort is a lakeside accommodation with a peaceful vibe. Family-sized units offer plenty of room to lounge, with select rooms providing a breezy patio with lake views. Bikes are available for an extra fee, and little ones can spend hours frolicking at the nicely equipped kids’ outdoor playground. The swimming pool has a shallow end, and the hotel provides swimming pool toys to enhance the fun. The whole clan can also go cycling and fishing.
For indoor entertainment, there are fun puzzles and board games. Strollers add convenience for parents, and baby safety gates provide peace of mind.
Lewis & Clark Resort
Address: 43496 Shore Drive
494.81 km (307.5 mi) from Mount Rushmore National Memorial
2. Arrowwood Resort at Cedar Shore - Oacoma (from USD 139)
Arrowwood Resort at Cedar Shore is a gem in south-central South Dakota. Located in the tiny town of Oacoma on the shores of the Missouri River, this resort has a marina, large family rooms, and lots of fun activities. Youngsters can enjoy a lively games room, outdoor sports courts, a playground, and more. If you want your little one to learn how to cast a line, you’ll have your chance with on-site fishing available.
The swimming pool has a shallow end for junior tadpoles, and board games and puzzles are on hand. For dining options, parents will be pleased that kids’ meals are served at no added charge.
Arrowwood Resort at Cedar Shore
Address: 1500 Shoreline Drive
329.48 km (204.8 mi) from Mount Rushmore National Memorial
3. Deadwood Gulch Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham (from USD 39)
Reasonably priced at roughly $100 a night, excellent value for off-season stays
Convenient trolley service, spacious rooms, beautiful location with a stream and walking path
Ideal for touring around the area and the Black Hills, away from downtown congestion
Decent restaurant attached, but limited breakfast options and no complimentary breakfast
Tucked away in the dramatic Black Hills and overlooking lovely Whitewood Creek, Deadwood Gulch Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, offers a dreamy setting. Select units have seating areas and toasty fireplaces. Spacious family rooms are sufficiently furnished, and you can request a handy microwave and tiny fridge for simple meal preparation. This resort offers a child-friendly buffet for your ravenous brood if you’re not keen on cooking.
Families can enjoy an exciting exploration of the historic Deadwood town nearby and take a scenic hike on the George S. Mickelson Trail.
Deadwood Gulch Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Address: 304 Cliff Street
58.39 km (36.3 mi) from Mount Rushmore National Memorial
4. Black Elk Resort - Hill City (from USD 109)
Nestled in the shadow of Black Elk Peak, Black Elk Resort is a rustic home away from home. The cozy cottage-style accommodations offer two and three-bedroom options and ooze homestyle splendor. The on-site taproom serving sudsy craft beer is a pleasant surprise for adults, and the kids will have hours of fun at the well-appointed children’s outdoor playground. The huge covered pavilion with picnic tables and barbecue is the go-to spot for al fresco family dining.
Black Elk Resort
Address: 12720 South Highway 16
7.84 km (4.9 mi) from Mount Rushmore National Memorial
South Dakota Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more
Tours by Stephanie
5. Holiday Inn Resort Deadwood Mountain Grand, an IHG Hotel - Deadwood (from USD 66)
Holiday Inn Resort Deadwood Mountain Grand, an IHG Hotel, offers a stellar bargain for budget-minded families: young guests aged 19 and below stay free with an accompanying adult. Also, there are no less than 2 tasty eateries on hand, where up to 4 children, aged 12 and under, eat for free. In addition, this hotel has on-site kids’ activities, an indoor playroom, and fun pool toys for your wiggly tadpoles.
Holiday Inn Resort Deadwood Mountain Grand, an IHG Hotel
Address: 1906 Deadwood Mountain Drive
59.32 km (36.9 mi) from Mount Rushmore National Memorial
6. Elk Creek Resort - Piedmont (from USD 154)
Just 12 miles (19 kilometers) from Rapid City, Elk Creek Resort is a casual accommodation on the edge of the Black Hills. This resort in western South Dakota features no-frills yet homey cabins. Your kids can breathe fresh air while romping at the children’s playground or while taking a refreshing dip in the aqua-hued pool. Relish the mountain scenery on a network of nearby hiking trails.
Family-friendly outdoor activities, such as archery and horseshoes, are also available. If your family loves high-octane action, there are ATV trails close by.
Elk Creek Resort
Address: 8220 Elk Creek Road
38.77 km (24.1 mi) from Mount Rushmore National Memorial
7. Anchors Away - Aberdeen (from USD 125)
Anchors Away is a delightful lakefront family resort located 125 miles (201 kilometers) northeast of Pierre. This three-star accommodation features straightforward rooms with a subtle rustic atmosphere. Large units provide roomy bliss, and the resort’s indoor play area is a great place for young ones to scamper if the weather turns rainy. Families can spend a sunny afternoon dining al fresco in the picnic area or head to the splendid private beach.
Anchors Away Lodge
Address: 12800 South Shore Drive
425.36 km (264.4 mi) from Mount Rushmore National Memorial
8. Whitetail Creek Resort - Lead (from USD 119)
Reasonable pricing for clean, cozy cabins and rooms.
Fully equipped rooms, saunas, pavilion, fire pit, and games available. Beautifully landscaped grounds with a creek and picnic tables.
Conveniently located just 10 minutes outside Deadwood with the relaxing sound of a nearby creek. Close to various tourist attractions and activities.
Options for breakfast at nearby cafes and restaurants. Access to a store and a little bar on-site.
Whitetail Creek Resort is a slice of heaven. Located in the Northern Black Hills of South Dakota, this resort showcases a low-key rustic style. Opt for the Family Bungalow, and you will get two large cushy double-sized beds that easily sleep four.
With a nice collection of puzzles and board games available, you can spend an evening bonding with your kids or enjoy movies nights hosted by the resort. If anyone in your family is an avid reader, this lodging has a terrific library.
Whitetail Creek Resort
Address: 11295 US Highway 14a
56.68 km (35.3 mi) from Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Bring your brood to South Dakota
South Dakota is filled with expansive landscapes where families can roam with abandon. Whether you want a modest lodge for laidback outdoor activities or a high-end retreat with an engaging kids club, South Dakota’s family-friendly resorts are just the place to create memorable moments.
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