Activities Abound In State Parks This Winter
GF&P News Release
Winter may be almost here, but many visitors to South Dakota state parks are discovering that there is no reason to hibernate. Many opportunities for fun exist in the parks year-round, even after the snow falls.

During the winter season, many summer and fall hikers take up cross-country skiing. Twelve state parks and recreation areas offer cross-country ski trails. Trails are found at: Adams Homestead in North Sioux City, Big Sioux in Brandon, Hartford Beach near Milbank, Lake Herman near Madison, Mickelson Trail in the Black Hills, Newton Hills near Canton, Oakwood Lakes near Volga, Pelican Lake near Watertown, Richmond Lake near Aberdeen, Roy Lake near Lake City, Sica Hollow near Sisseton and West Whitlock near Gettysburg.

Snowmobilers can take advantage of trail riding opportunities across the state. More than 1,200 miles of snowmobile trails in eastern South Dakota will open Dec. 1. In addition to these trails, a small snowmobile play area is located at Big Sioux Recreation Area near Brandon. Grooming operations along the 350-mile Black Hills system will begin Dec. 15. To request a detailed trails map, e-mail ParkInfo@state.sd.us or call (605) 773-3391.

A trip to the park can also include snowshoeing, ice-skating, ice fishing or a leisurely walk in the brisk winter air.

In addition to day activities, plenty of opportunities exist for those wanting to stay overnight. Campsites are now available on a first-come, first-served basis. Electricity is kept on year-round, but water systems and comfort stations are closed during the winter. As a result, camping fees are reduced. Fees are collected at self-registration stations located at park entrances, where fee envelopes and instructions are provided.

For those a bit less daring, camping cabins provide heated protection from the elements. Camping cabins are found at state parks and recreation areas across the state. Each of the one-room, log-style cabins has heating, air-conditioning and electricity. Furnishings include a set of bunk beds, double bed, table and benches. A fire grate and picnic table are located outside. Campers will need to provide linens or sleeping bags. They can be reserved through the reservation system within 90 days of arrival at www.CampSD.com or by calling 1-800-710-CAMP (2267).

If you are gathering a group together, three recreation areas have lodges to suit your needs. Mina Lake Recreation Area near Aberdeen features a three-bedroom group lodge that sleeps eight, Shadehill Recreation Area near Lemmon has a two-bedroom lodge that sleeps up to 10, and Lake Thompson Recreation Area's five-bedroom lodge sleeps 12 people. Like the cabins, linens are not provided. The lodges at Mina Lake and Shadehill rent for $110 a night. The lodge at Lake Thompson is $175 per night. A fee of $15 will be charged for each additional person. Reservations can be made year-round through the reservation system at www.CampSD.com or by calling 1-800-710-CAMP (2267).

Park entrance licenses are required year-round in all designated fees areas. The 2006 park entrance license is now available online and at park offices, and is valid until May 2007.

More information on winter activities and camping in South Dakota state parks can be found online at www.sdgfp.info/Parks by clicking on “Outdoor Recreation.”