South Dakota has a variety of vacation rentals for all travelers. You can find a rental that meets your preferences, budget, and location, whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin or a luxurious home.
Vacation rentals provide an excellent base for exploring the state’s attractions, such as the Black Hills, Lake Vermillion, Lake Oahe, Sioux Falls, and Rapid City. Choose the right vacation rental by researching and considering your preferences, location, and amenities.
Read reviews and tips from other travelers, and contact rental hosts for any questions or assistance. They can give you insights into the local area, attractions, and more, making your stay in South Dakota enjoyable and stress-free.
Key Takeaways
- South Dakota vacation rentals offer diverse options for your unique travel needs and preferences.
- Explore the state’s natural and urban attractions from the comfort of your chosen rental.
- Research and communicate with rental hosts to ensure a memorable and stress-free trip
Discovering South Dakota Vacation Rentals
Diverse Accommodation Choices
South Dakota boasts a diverse range of vacation rentals that cater to different preferences. Whether you’re searching for a cozy cabin nestled in the Black Hills, a charming cottage, a luxurious private cabin, or a spacious vacation home, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect accommodation. By renting a house, villa, or apartment, you can fully immerse yourself in the state’s natural beauty and explore its unique attractions.
Many vacation rentals in South Dakota are conveniently located, making it easy to access popular tourist spots and outdoor activities. Some options are more secluded, providing a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Amenities and Facilities
When it comes to vacation rentals in South Dakota, the amenities and facilities available vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Common amenities include fully-equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, comfortable bedding and linens.
If you’re looking for something more luxurious, some vacation rentals offer extra amenities such as a spa, pool, or hot tub. Additionally, if you’re traveling with your furry friends, many rental properties are pet-friendly too!
To find the ideal rental property, search by price, location, available amenities, and reviews from previous guests. Platforms like Rent By Owner and Airbnb facilitate communication between you and the property owners, ensuring you get the best possible experience during your stay.
It’s important to note that availability for these rentals can fluctuate, so it’s advisable to plan and book your vacation rental early to secure your ideal accommodations.
Making the Most of Your Stay
South Dakota offers a beautiful variety of vacation rentals, suitable for every getaway you could think of. To make the most of your stay, you should consider your specific needs and preferences.
First, think about the location. South Dakota vacation rentals are available nationwide, ranging from stunning Black Hills cabins to unique Airbnb properties in bustling Sturgis. Opt for a rental that aligns with the activities you plan on enjoying, such as skiing at Terry Peak Ski Area or exploring the Badlands.
Family-friendly stays: For families traveling with kids, consider choosing vacation rentals with amenities like a crib, high chair, or entertainment options like games and toys. Some Airbnb properties, like the luxurious 3,250 square feet Sturgis home, have these amenities.
Dog-friendly properties: If you’re traveling with your furry friend, search for dog-friendly vacation rentals. Some properties will welcome your pet and may even have amenities like fenced yards or nearby dog parks for their enjoyment.
Housing larger groups: For larger groups or multiple families, look for spacious rentals with plenty of bedrooms, like the High Country Pool House in Sturgis, which can accommodate up to 24 guests. Booking a larger property often allows you to save on a per-person basis, making your stay more economical and comfortable.
Remember, a well-chosen vacation rental can make all the difference in your South Dakota experience.
Lake Vermillion Recreation Area
Located in McCook County, South Dakota, the Lake Vermillion Recreation Area is a picturesque destination for holidaymakers. Let’s look at what makes this place an ideal getaway.
Undoubtedly, one of the main attractions at Lake Vermillion is the lake itself. With clear waters and a peaceful environment, you can indulge in water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and paddleboarding. If this is your first time trying kayaking or canoeing, rental options are available. Imagine spending a sunny afternoon on the water!
However, there’s more to the area than just the lake. The region also boasts stunning hiking trails, perfect for a stroll or a challenging workout. While trekking, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and stop to enjoy the views of the natural surroundings. Additionally, explore the interpretive signs that offer fascinating insights into the area’s history, flora, and fauna.
It’s hard to imagine a better way to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery than playing a game of volleyball or horseshoes with your friends and family. Fortunately, Lake Vermillion Recreation Area offers these activities in a serene natural setting, with equipment rental services for fishing poles, life jackets, and lawn games.
Regarding accommodations, you’ll find plenty of vacation rentals near the Lake Vermillion Recreation Area. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, a spacious home, or a luxurious villa, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to stay and enjoy your vacation.
Angostura Recreation Area
If you plan a vacation in South Dakota, check out the beautiful Angostura Recreation Area. This state recreation area is located in Fall River County and offers various outdoor activities for you and your family to enjoy.
On the eastern side of Angostura Reservoir, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure, including camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. What can you expect when you arrive? Well, the area offers a wide range of vacation rentals to choose from, including large family homes, private villas, and cozy cabins near the lake. These options will provide the perfect base for your South Dakota vacation. Some of the popular rental options include:
- Spacious Lake House: Sleeps 11, 5 bedrooms, 9 beds
- C&D’s Cottage: Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom, 1 bed
- Angostura Oasis: Sleeps 5, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds
- Eagle’s Nest Cabin: Featuring a hot tub and canyon views
For those interested in water sports, Angostura Recreation Area offers a range of rental options, such as canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. With the boat launch less than a 1/4 mile away, you’ll have easy access to boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on the reservoir.
If you prefer land-based activities, there are plenty of options for hiking and exploring the park. You’ll also find amenities like disc golf, horseshoes, and volleyball to enhance your outdoor experience. And when you’re ready to take a break, you can sit back and relax at one of the many picturesque picnic spots.
Lake Oahe
If you’re planning a getaway to South Dakota, add a visit to Lake Oahe to your itinerary. With a surface area of 150,000 hectares and a depth of 62 meters, this is the largest lake in South Dakota, and it offers all kinds of water sports such as boating, fishing and kayaking.
Lake.com offers a variety of top-rated, unique stays with fully furnished kitchens and laundry facilities. At the same time, Vrbo has a selection of 24 house rentals located near Oahe Dam, perfect for trips with friends, family, or even pets.
Lake Oahe is a prime destination for fishing and hunting enthusiasts, and several vacation rentals cater to their needs. You can stay at a highly-rated house with a breathtaking view of Oahe Lake or a new home featuring a farm and stunning views of the Missouri River.
If you want to make your Lake Oahe visit more memorable, consider staying at one of the bed & breakfasts available in the area. These accommodations offer a cozy atmosphere where you can relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the great outdoors.
Lake Francis Case
Lake Francis Case is the second-largest lake in South Dakota, covering an area of 410 square kilometers. It was created by the Fort Randall Dam on the Missouri River and provides various opportunities for fishing and water-based activities.
If you’re planning a South Dakota vacation, there are several accommodation options available near Lake Francis Case. For example, you can stay at the American Creek Campground in Chamberlain, SD, which allows pets and children, making it an ideal choice for a family vacation. Here, you can enjoy a serene setting along the Missouri River and access the campground’s amenities.
Another option is to stay at a cabin or lodging at Snake Creek Recreation Area, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Francis Case. Make sure to visit the Dock 44 Marina, the go-to place popular with locals. Stop and enjoy a drink at the bar and a bite to eat. It’s important to note that the marina’s last day of the season is September 30th, so plan your visit accordingly.
If you’re into hunting and fishing adventures, consider staying at Platte Creek Lodge, located along Platte Lake Road. This lodge is renowned for its South Dakota Walleye Fishing opportunities on Lake Francis Case, making it an excellent choice for avid anglers.
For a more luxurious stay, you can book a log home just minutes from the Missouri River and Lake Francis Case, near I-90. This rental option, available through Vrbo, offers amenities like air conditioning, a fireplace, internet, washer & dryer, and can sleep up to 11 people, making it suitable for large groups or family gatherings.
Lake Sharpe
Lake Sharpe is a fantastic spot for vacation rentals in South Dakota, covering an area of 230.20 square kilometers. It was created by the Big Bend Dam on the Missouri River and provides excellent opportunities for boating and wildlife observation.
If you’re an angler, Lake Sharpe offers fantastic walleye fishing opportunities. In 1997 alone, nearly 160,000 walleye were caught in the lake, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Additionally, boat ramps and fish cleaning facilities are available in Fort Pierre, ensuring a successful fishing trip.
Lake Sharpe also offers scenic surroundings that can be explored by taking a leisurely boat ride or enjoying a sunset stroll along the shoreline. This area is perfect for wildlife observation, so have your phone handy with the camera on to capture those magical moments as you relax in the natural beauty.
How To Book a Trip to South Dakota
Filter and Availability
Are you planning a trip to South Dakota? Consider your travel dates and accommodation preferences and start your search on popular online rental platforms like Lake, HomeToGo, Vacasa, or Airbnb. Customize your search to narrow your options based on price, number of bedrooms, amenities, location, and traveler ratings. Before booking, ensure your preferred rental is available for the desired stay period and check booking requirements and minimum-stay restrictions.
Communication and Booking
To book your perfect South Dakota vacation rental, contact the owner or manager via the platform’s built-in messaging system. Ask about the property, the area, and additional services. Confirm availability, double-check the cancellation policy, and complete the reservation online. Note the important contact and arrival instructions, and report any issues promptly during your stay.
Preparation for South Dakota
Forecast Considerations
When planning a trip to South Dakota, it is essential to check the weather forecast. South Dakota has a continental climate so you can expect hot summers and cold winters. To make the most of your vacation rental, pack weather-appropriate clothing. Additionally, if you plan on visiting areas with creeks during heavy rainfall, be aware of possible creek flooding, which can affect your itinerary. Stay prepared, and enjoy your trip to South Dakota!
Traveling from a Distance
If you plan to fly to South Dakota from another state or country, consider booking a direct flight to either the Rapid City Regional Airport or the Sioux Falls Regional Airport. It is recommended that you compare fares and book ahead to get better ticket prices. On the other hand, if you are traveling from Destin, Florida, you need to plan your route and travel time accordingly.
Once you arrive in South Dakota, car rental options are available at both airports, which will give you the freedom to explore the state and easily access your vacation rental.
Exploring South Dakota
Popular Tourist Locations
While visiting South Dakota, you’ll discover a diverse range of attractions. A must-see is the iconic Mount Rushmore, carved with the faces of four U.S. presidents. For a taste of the Wild West, head to Deadwood, a historic town known for its gold rush history and charming streets lined with saloons. If you love motorcycling, Sturgis is the place to be, especially during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Another exciting spot is Rapid City, the “Gateway to the Black Hills,” boasting attractions such as Dinosaur Park and the Journey Museum. Remember to explore Spearfish and Lead, which offer unique experiences like the Spearfish Canyon and the Sanford Underground Research Facility.
Experiencing Nature and Wildlife
South Dakota is home to stunning natural wonders you can’t miss. Explore the Black Hills National Forest, where you can hike, bike, or horseback ride through beautiful prairies and forests. For an epic road trip, take the scenic byway through Custer State Park, where you can spot roaming buffalo, bison, and other wildlife.
One of the highlights of your trip should be Badlands National Park, featuring impressive rock formations and canyon views. Here, you can go hiking, camping, or even stargazing at night. South Dakota is also known for its glacial lakes, perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming.
In addition to nature and wildlife, you’ll find recreational activities such as golf courses and scenic trails for all your outdoor adventures. Renting a vacation home in South Dakota will provide you with an unforgettable experience surrounded by incredible natural beauty and captivating historical sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some pet-friendly options for vacation rentals?
To find suitable accommodation, simply filter your search by the “pet-friendly” criteria when browsing through vacation rental platforms. Please note that some rentals might require an additional pet fee or have specific pet-related rules that you should be aware of, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the property’s pet policy before booking.
Where can I find cabins with hot tubs in South Dakota?
Cabins with hot tubs throughout South Dakota, particularly in popular vacation destinations like the Black Hills and Rapid City. To locate such places, use filters like “hot tub” or “Jacuzzi” while searching for accommodations on vacation rental websites. Relaxing in a hot tub after a long day of exploring South Dakota’s natural beauty is a luxury you won’t miss!
How can I locate small cabins for rent in the Black Hills?
To find small cabins for rent in the Black Hills, you can start your search on popular vacation rental websites or contact local property management companies in the area. Set your preference for property size or guest capacity, and filter by location to zoom in on the Black Hills region. Small cabins can provide a more intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo adventure.
What are the best platforms to search for vacation rentals?
There are several platforms you can use to search for vacation rentals in South Dakota. Some popular ones include Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and Rent By Owner. These websites allow you to browse various property types, filter your search according to specific preferences, and read guest reviews to help you decide your rental choice.
Are there affordable cabin options in the Black Hills?
Yes, affordable cabin options can be found in the Black Hills. To locate budget-friendly rentals, sort your search by price on vacation rental websites or use filters like “budget” or “economical.” Remember that prices may vary depending on property size, amenities, location, and time of year. Booking in advance or during off-peak seasons can also help you secure better deals on rentals.