9 South Dakota Resorts: Your Gateway to a Scenic Nature Escape
South Dakota’s resorts bring you natural splendor, awe-inspiring sights, top amenities and affordable prices. To find the right place for your next visit, explore our handpicked list of the best resorts in South Dakota.
- Cocomango Travel
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Editor's Picks: The Best Resorts in South Dakota
If you’re seeking the ultimate outdoor getaway, look no further than South Dakota!
With the awe-inspiring Black Hills and Badlands in the west and glacial lakes teeming with adventure in the northeast, you’re in for a treat.
To elevate your vacation, consider staying at one of South Dakota’s top-rated resorts, ranging from family-friendly properties to luxurious lodges and secluded cabins, all with amenities to enhance your experience. You’ll even find some of the best resorts in the United States here!
Embark on a South Dakota resort vacation you’ll cherish forever, and let our editor’s picks guide you to the perfect blend of activities, amenities, and dining for a truly unforgettable journey.
The Lodge at Deadwood
Best for a picturesque family retreat
4.5
192/per night
The Lodge at Deadwood offers million-dollar views and warm Midwestern friendliness. Watch the sunset from your little sanctuary while you take in the sights of the Black Hills like you’ve never seen them before.
After a day of touring, relax next to the fireplace and take in the scenery surrounding this family-style lodge.
End your night in style with luxurious accommodations ideal for you and your family. Also, regardless of the season, the Northern Black Hills provide incredible outdoor adventures.
At a glance:
- 140 rooms and suites
- Deluxe king suite, Double queen suite, Extra-large suites, Spa suites
- Lush & modern decor
Amenities:
- Standard amenities (Air conditioning, microwave, coffee maker)
- Complimentary toiletries
- In-room safe
*Interconnected rooms available
At a glance:
- Two restaurants
- Bar
- In-room dining
Must try:
- Enjoy contemporary menu features in the Deadwood Grille
- Mouthwatering signature Ribeye at Oggie’s Sports Bar
In-house facilities:
- On-site casino
- Indoor waterpark
- Evening entertainment
- The Deadwood Spa
- 24-hour fitness center
Spend time:
- Check out the amazing scenery at Mount Roosevelt
- Indulge in some family fun at the Spearfish water park
- Get yourself pampered at the incredible spa
Address:
100 Pine Crest Lane, Deadwood, SD 57732, United States
Closest airport:
Black hills airport -10 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Days of ’76 Museum – 1.9 miles
- Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower – 2.5 miles
- Broken Boot Gold Mine – 3.1 miles
Cambria Hotel Rapid City Near Mount Rushmore
Best for a luxurious stay near Mount Rushmore
4.3
125/per night
The Cambria Hotel Rapid City offers luxury accommodations, excellent service, and a variety of modern facilities.
This hotel is close to I-90 and the Rapid City Regional Airport, making it ideal for business travelers.
Enjoy tasty American classics at the on-site restaurant while being close to most of the area’s major attractions. Whether you’re visiting alone or with a party, The Cambria Hotel offers a variety of amenities to keep you happy and relaxed during your time in Rapid City.
At a glance:
- Special room packages (check with the friendly staff for more information)
- King & Queen suites
- Relax in comfort in the stylish suites and guestrooms
*Interconnected rooms available
*Smoke-free property
Amenities:
- Standard amenities (coffee/Tea maker, air conditioning, safe, hairdryer, free Wi-Fi)
- Laptop-friendly workspace
At a glance:
- On-site restaurant
- Bar
- Coffee shop
- In-room dining
*Breakfast available (for a fee)
Must try:
- Taste American classics with a modern twist at the Reflect Bistro
- Try a type of local craft beer at the bar
In-house facilities:
- Indoor pool
- Fitness center
- Wedding venue
- Children’s Activities
- Conference facilities
Spend time:
- Spend some time touring the city on a bike
- Let the friendly staff help you out with planning an event
- Check out some of the popular art galleries in town
Address:
3333 Outfitters Road, Rapid City, SD 57701, United States
Closest airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport – 10 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Jump Craze – 0.8 miles
- WaTiki Indoor Waterpark – 1.3 miles
- Dinosaur Park -5.4 miles
- Storybook Island – 8.0 miles
Deadwood Comfort Inn
Best for families who enjoy outdoor activities
4.3
122/per night
Get ready for the ultimate staycation in Deadwood! Comfort Inn and Suites is your perfect gateway to all things fun – located right amongst picturesque hills of South Dakota.
From mini-golfing with family or shopping at Cliff Gift Shop, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something that isn’t exciting here.
Plus, get up close and personal with some of nature’s finest by sitting streamside and watching local wildlife go about the daily business –– a great way to relax after an action-packed day!
At a glance:
- King suites, Queen suites, Family suites
- Newly renovated rooms
- Modern & chic decor
Amenities:
- Standard amenities (coffee/Tea maker, refrigerator, hairdryer, free Wi-Fi)
- Complimentary toiletries
- Private bathrooms
*Interconnected rooms available
*Non-smoking rooms
*Free on-site parking
At a glance:
- Phat Owl Lounge & Eatery
- Bar
- Complimentary breakfast buffet
Must try:
- Try the in-house made a small pie with a flaky crust filled with a variety of different fillings
- Taste one of their cocktails made with top-shelf bourbon
In-house facilities:
- Mini Golf
- Arcade
- Gift Shop
- Spa
- Fitness center
- Concierge service
Spend time:
- Take a trip back to memory lane in the arcade alongside your kids
- Relax and get yourself pampered in the lavishing spa
- Explore the city with the complimentary shuttle service that is available
Address:
225 Cliff St, Deadwood, SD 57732, United States
Closest airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport – 55 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Adams House – 0.6 miles
- Boot Gold Mine – 0.6 miles
- Deadwood Alive – 0.7 miles
Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton
Best for experiencing luxury vacation and historical architecture
4.2
159/per night
Immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of South Dakota at Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton.
This paradisiacal retreat offers a unique blend of historic architecture, breathtaking handcrafted native art accommodation, and modern amenities to ensure your stay is both luxurious and memorable.
Enjoy rooftop views while sipping cocktails from the bar or indulge in relaxation treatments offered by the spa & salon – whatever you choose, there’s something for everyone!
At a glance:
- Guest rooms
- Suites
- Presidential Suites
- Pet-friendly
Amenities:
- Standard amenities(air-conditioning, iron, flatscreen TV, free Wi-Fi)
- Private balcony
- Pillow-top beds
- Fireplace
At a glance:
- Paddy O’Neill’s Pub
- Vertex Sky Bar
- Chubby Chipmunk
- Starbucks Coffee
Must try:
- Hand-dipped chocolates
- Pub-style chicken wings
- Signature cocktails at the rooftop bar
In-house facilities:
- AJ’s Wicked Salon and Spa
- Alex Johnson Mercantile
- 24-hour fitness room
- Meeting rooms
Spend time:
- Drink your favorite drink at the upscale roof bar
- Experience the haunted room that comes with a K2 ghost-detecting meter
- Indulge in a relaxing body treatment
Address:
523 6th St, Rapid City, SD 57701, United States
Closest airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport – 11 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Mount Rushmore – 24 miles
- Crazy Horse Memorial – 30 miles
- Badlands National Park – 60 miles
Red Rock River Resort Hotel & Spa
Best for world-class spa lovers
4
127/per night
Escape the ordinary and indulge in luxury at Red Rock River Resort Hotel & Spa!
This hidden gem deep in South Dakota’s Black Hills offers everything you need for a truly special getaway, including warmly decorated rooms, 24-hour access to an award-winning spa and wellness center, and plenty of nearby attractions like biking trails through majestic scenery.
And don’t forget the renowned steakhouse on site – mouthwatering perfection awaits!
At a glance:
- Guest rooms
- Suites
- Presidential Suites
- Pet-friendly
Amenities:
- Standard amenities(air-conditioning, iron, flatscreen TV, free Wi-Fi)
- Private balcony
- Pillow-top beds
- Fireplace
At a glance:
- The 1891 Steak House & Bistro
Must try:
- Coconut Lime Shrimp
- Filet Mignon
In-house facilities:
- Spa
- Sauna
- Fitness center
- Bike rentals
- Concierge
Spend time:
- Range of massage and wellness treatments
- In-room massages
- Scenic trail rides
Address:
603 N River St US-385, Hot Springs, SD 57747, United States
Closest airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport – 63 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Pioneer Museum – 1 mile
- Chautauqua Artisans Market – 0.06 miles
- Evans Plunge Mineral Springs – 0.4 miles
Spearfish Canyon Lodge
Best for nature enthusiasts and fine dining lovers
4.5
183/per night
Nestled in the idyllic heart of Spearfish Canyon, Spearfish Canyon Lodge invites you to experience traditional western hospitality.
Not only is this luxurious lodge pet friendly and equipped with a truly historic restaurant dating back to 1876, but it also provides access to an array of outdoor attractions for nature enthusiasts!
Whether your idea of fun involves pondering amidst picturesque fishing spots, conquering mountain peaks on foot, or gliding across ski slopes – there’s something that will suit all tastes.
At a glance:
- 44 well-appointed rooms
- Ten unique suites
- One private cabin
- Accessible rooms
Amenities:
- Standard amenities(coffee maker, flatscreen TV, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi)
- Private balcony
- Wet-bar
At a glance:
- The Latchstring Restaurant
- Roughlock Lounge
Must try:
- Rainbow Trout
- Country Fried Steak
In-house facilities:
- Hot tub
- Concierge service
- Shared firepit
Spend time:
- UTV & Offroading
- Hiking trails at Spearfish Canyon
- Snowmobiling in the Black Hills
Address:
10619 Roughlock Falls Rd, Lead, SD 57754, United States
Closest airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport – 70 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Spearfish Canyon – 5.5 miles
- Roughlock Falls -0.9 miles
- Annie Creek Falls – 4.5 miles
Canyon Lake Resort
Best for family fun by the lake
4.5
108/per night
Escape the grind and come recharge at The Canyon, a luxurious South Dakota resort set along peaceful lakeside views.
Whether you’re looking for some well-deserved family time or your own personal getaway, you’ll find plenty of activities that suit all tastes!
Relax by the heated outdoor pool, take on the waves with water sports like kayaking or sailing, go explore nature’s beauty through hiking and biking trails, or simply soak up those gorgeous sunsets from one of many serene spots around this tranquil paradise.
At a glance:
- 11 modern motel rooms
- Six private two-bedroom cabins
- Three smaller cabins
- Family-style three-bedroom cabin
- Five-bedroom house
- Lodge with nine bedrooms
Amenities:
- Standard amenities(air-conditioning, hairdryer, coffee pot, minifridge)
- Stove
- Interconnecting rooms
** There are no dining options at this resort. However, you can cook your favorite meals in the fully equipped kitchen or at the BBQ facilities.
In-house facilities:
- Lake access
- Fishing equipment
- Boat rental
- Heated pool
Spend time:
- Hike or bike through picturesque scenery
- Paddleboarding and kayaking in the lake
- Have a picnic with your loved ones
Address:
4510 Shore Dr, Rapid City, SD 57702-4900
Closest airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport – 14.6 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Storybook Island -1.8 miles
- Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries – 3.7 miles
- Fort Hays Old West Town and Dinner Show – 4.4 miles
Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort
Best for endless water fun and close proximity to the water
3.8
146/per night
Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort is the epitome of lakeside luxury, nestled on South Dakota’s meandering Missouri River banks.
From serene waterscapes and breathtaking views to full-service marina services for your personal pleasure – you won’t want to miss out on everything this year-round destination has to offer!
And, when it comes time to take a break from playtime outside, enjoy excellent amenities like the seasonal grille & tiki bar that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
At a glance:
- Lodge rooms
- Campground and RV site
- River Ranch Bunkhouses
- Accessible rooms
Amenities:
- Standard amenities(Air-conditioning, flat screen TV, mini-fridge, coffee maker)
- Room service
- Kitchenette
At a glance:
- Bridges Restaurant and Lounge
- Seasonal outdoor Waterfront Grill & Tiki Bar
Must try:
- Seared Salmon filet
- Cedar Shore Cider
In-house facilities:
- Lake access
- Marina
- Boat rentals
- Indoor pool
- Sauna and Hot tub
- Game room
- Fitness room
Spend time:
- Playing volleyball
- Horseshoe throwing
- Water fun at the Marina
Address:
1500 Shoreline Dr, Oacoma, SD 57365, United States
Closest airport:
Pierre Regional Airport – 88 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Akta Lakota Museum – 3.7 miles
- South Dakota Hall of Fame – 2.1 miles
- Dignity – 2.9 miles
Custer State Park Resort
Best for nature and wildlife enthusiasts
4.7
221/per night
Custer State Park Resort is a fishing lakeside resort in South Dakota, located inside Custer State Park, providing visitors with the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation.
The on-site restaurant offers an upscale menu that you can enjoy indoors or on the patio overlooking scenic Heritage Lake, created by the reclaimed sandstone dam.
The lodging includes modern hotel-quality accommodations as well as rustic yet comfortable cedar lodge cabins with beautiful views of canyons and forests.
At a glance:
- Historic Lodge cabins
- Hotel rooms
- Motel rooms
Amenities:
- Standard amenities(telephone, small refrigerator, microwave, TV, hairdryer, coffee pot)
At a glance:
- Restaurant
- Lounge
- Bar
Must try:
- Buffalo Strip Loin
- I Dare Ya burger
In-house facilities:
- Concierge service that can arrange a tour
- State-of-the-art theater
- Boat & Water Sport Rentals
Spend time:
- Enjoy scenic drives in the park
- Buffalo Safari Jeep tour
- Attend a Buffalo Roundup, where you can watch as the herd is sorted, branded, tested, and treated
Address:
13389 US Hwy 16A, Custer, SD 57730, United States
Closest airport:
Rapid City Regional Airport – 48 miles
Nearby attractions:
- Mount Rushmore – 40 miles
- Mount Coolidge Lookout Tower – 16 miles
- Black Elk Peak – 26 miles
Popular Places in South Dakota
Besides the fact that South Dakota provides some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone in the family entertained.
Here are just a few of the most popular vacation destinations in South Dakota:
Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls is South Dakota’s largest city and a great place to visit if you’re looking for a mix of urban and outdoor activities. There are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore downtown, or you can take a walk or bike stroll through one of the many parks.
Rapid City
Rapid City is home to Mount Rushmore National Monument, a must-see for anyone visiting the state. It also offers a thriving arts and culture scene, with plenty of galleries and museums to explore. And if you’re in search of some outdoor adventure, you can’t go wrong with a visit to one of the nearby national parks.
FAQ - Resorts in South Dakota
The best time to book a resort in South Dakota varies depending on your preferred activities and weather conditions. If you are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, the summer months of June to August are ideal. However, these months can also be crowded. For a more peaceful and serene experience, the spring or fall months of April to May and September to October are recommended.
On average, the nightly cost for resorts in South Dakota is around $138 per night.
The average rating from travelers for resorts in South Dakota is 4.2/5.
The top resorts in South Dakota for families are The Lodge at Deadwood, Cambria Hotel Rapid City Near Mount Rushmore, and Deadwood Comfort Inn.
The best of South Dakota’s lakeside resorts are Canyon Lake Resort, Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort, and Custer State Park Resort.
The best of South Dakota’s luxury & spa resorts are Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton, Red Rock River Resort Hotel & Spa, and Spearfish Canyon Lodge.
Explore More
And that’s a wrap!
We hope this page helped you understand why a vacation resort in South Dakota could be a great idea for your next trip.
From the jaw-dropping natural beauty to the Wild West thrills, American history galore, and an array of memorable experiences – what are you still waiting for?
Pick your favorite resort in South Dakota today and book your next dream vacation.
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