South Dakota State Maps

These maps show South Dakota States Counties, Cities, Federal Areas, Physiographic, and Ecoregions.




South Dakota County Map

The 66 Counties of South Dakota and Their Name Origins







South Dakota County Sizes Map

South Dakota State County Sizes Map

Smallest County in South Dakota State

Clay County: 417 sq miles

Largest County in South Dakota State

Meade County: 3474 sq miles

Mean and Median Area of Counties in South Dakota State

Mean Area: 1,100 sq miles

Median Area: 1,125 sq miles







South Dakota Major Cities Map

Major Cities of South Dakota State and Their Locations

In South Dakota, most major cities are strategically located near rivers or along historic transportation routes. Below are examples of each type:

1. River Locations

Sioux Falls: The largest city in South Dakota, located near the Big Sioux River. Sioux Falls has historically been a center for trade and agriculture, with a growing economy centered around healthcare, finance, and retail.

Yankton: Situated along the Missouri River, Yankton was once the capital of Dakota Territory and remains an important hub for trade and river transport. It is known for its historic buildings and proximity to recreational areas along the river.

Vermillion: Located near the Missouri River, Vermillion is home to the University of South Dakota and has a history of river commerce and education. The river has been central to the city's development, providing transport and agricultural benefits.

2. Historic Routes

Rapid City: Located along historic transportation routes, Rapid City serves as the gateway to the Black Hills. Its economy is driven by tourism, retail, and healthcare, with visitors flocking to nearby attractions like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park.

Mitchell: Famous for the Corn Palace, Mitchell lies along Interstate 90 and was historically a key stop on the railroad. The city continues to thrive as a regional center for agriculture and trade.

Pierre: The state capital, Pierre is situated on the Missouri River and along historic transportation routes used by early explorers and traders. As the seat of state government, it plays a central role in politics and governance while maintaining a small-town atmosphere.

3. Other Major Cities

Huron: Huron, located in eastern South Dakota, is a regional agricultural hub known for hosting the South Dakota State Fair. Its development has been shaped by its agricultural economy and its central location in the state's eastern plains.

Brookings: Home to South Dakota State University, Brookings is a college town with a vibrant economy that revolves around education, research, and agricultural innovation. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state.

Watertown: Located near Lake Kampeska, Watertown is a growing community that serves as a center for trade, manufacturing, and agriculture in northeastern South Dakota. Its scenic location also makes it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.


South Dakota State Shaded Relief Map

Topographic Tour of South Dakota


South Dakota offers diverse landscapes, from the rugged Black Hills to the expansive plains. The state's topography is shaped by its unique geology, climate, and natural features.

1. Black Hills

The Black Hills region in western South Dakota is known for its steep mountains, forests, and high plateaus. It includes iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and Wind Cave National Park. The rugged terrain supports a wide range of wildlife and outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

2. Great Plains

East of the Black Hills lies the expansive Great Plains, which cover most of South Dakota. The plains are a mix of rolling hills, flatlands, and fertile agricultural areas. This region is the heartland for ranching and farming, providing vast open spaces and grasslands that support agriculture, especially cattle grazing and crop farming.

3. Badlands

The Badlands in southwestern South Dakota feature striking eroded landscapes, with steep, colorful ridges, spires, and deep gorges. Badlands National Park is one of the most visited areas, showcasing dramatic terrain shaped by wind and water erosion, with fossil beds and unique wildlife.

4. Missouri River Valley

The Missouri River cuts through central South Dakota, carving out a wide valley that contrasts with the surrounding plains. This region has more varied topography, with bluffs, river valleys, and wetlands providing important habitats for wildlife and opportunities for recreation, such as fishing, boating, and camping.

5. Coteau des Prairies

This elevated plateau in northeastern South Dakota rises above the surrounding plains, featuring rolling hills, lakes, and wetlands. Formed by glacial activity, the Coteau des Prairies is important for agriculture and is home to numerous glacial lakes that support both wildlife and recreation, such as fishing and boating.

6. Prairie Coteau

Located in the northeast, the Prairie Coteau is a highland area formed by glacial deposition. It is characterized by rolling terrain with numerous small lakes, ponds, and wetlands. The area is primarily used for grazing and farming but also supports significant bird and wildlife habitats.







South Dakota Physiographic Regions

Physiographic Regions of South Dakota

Central Lowland, Dissected Till Plains

This region covers eastern South Dakota and is known for its fertile soils and agriculture, shaped by glaciation and river systems. The land is primarily flat to gently rolling, making it ideal for crop farming.

Great Plains, Black Hills

The Black Hills region is a mountainous area in the west, featuring steep hills, pine forests, and unique geological formations. This region is distinct from the surrounding plains and is popular for tourism, including Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.

Central Lowland, Western Lake

This region features flat to gently rolling terrain dotted with numerous lakes, many of which were formed by glaciation. The fertile soil supports extensive agriculture, and the lakes provide habitats for migratory birds and recreational opportunities.

Great Plains, High Plains

Located in the western portion of South Dakota, this region is characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain with a semi-arid climate. It is primarily used for cattle ranching and dryland farming, and features expansive grasslands.

Great Plains, Missouri Plateau (Glaciated)

The glaciated portion of the Missouri Plateau in northern and eastern South Dakota consists of rolling hills, river valleys, and small lakes formed by glacial activity. Agriculture is dominant here, particularly grain farming and cattle ranching.

Great Plains, Missouri Plateau (Unglaciated)

This unglaciated section of the Missouri Plateau, located in central and western South Dakota, features more rugged terrain, including eroded hills, valleys, and badlands. It is less fertile than the glaciated areas, and is mainly used for ranching and dryland agriculture.







South Dakota Major Federal Lands

Notable Federal Lands: Some of the Largest and Most Fascinating Destinations in South Dakota

1. Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park showcases dramatic landscapes of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires, along with a rich fossil bed. It's one of the most visited parks in South Dakota and is known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife, including bison and bighorn sheep.

2. Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park features one of the longest and most complex caves in the world, known for its boxwork formations, which are unique in their intricate lattice structure. Above ground, the park preserves a mixed-grass prairie ecosystem that supports bison, elk, and prairie dogs.

3. Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, featuring the 60-foot carved faces of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It attracts millions of visitors each year and symbolizes American history and culture.

4. Black Elk Wilderness Area

Located within the Black Hills National Forest, Black Elk Wilderness Area is known for its rugged terrain, granite peaks, and dense pine forests. Named after the Lakota Sioux spiritual leader, it offers numerous hiking and climbing opportunities, including the trail to Black Elk Peak, the highest point in South Dakota.

5. Badlands Wilderness Area

This designated wilderness within Badlands National Park offers a more remote and undeveloped experience of the park's striking eroded landscapes. The area provides opportunities for solitude, wildlife observation, and backcountry hiking.

6. Black Hills National Forest

The Black Hills National Forest covers over 1.2 million acres of rugged forested hills, meadows, and streams. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The forest is also home to historic landmarks like Harney Peak (now Black Elk Peak) and features numerous recreational trails.

7. Deerfield Lake

Located within the Black Hills National Forest, Deerfield Lake is a scenic reservoir surrounded by dense pine forests and open meadows. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping, and provides access to nearby hiking and horseback riding trails.

8. Oglala National Grasslands

The Oglala National Grasslands in northwestern South Dakota feature vast open plains, rolling hills, and unique landforms such as the Toadstool Geological Park. This area is home to pronghorn antelope, prairie dogs, and various bird species, and offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

9. Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge

Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge, located in the northeastern part of the state, is a haven for migratory birds and waterfowl, including trumpeter swans, pelicans, and bald eagles. The refuge consists of wetlands, lakes, and grasslands, making it a prime location for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

10. Fort Pierre National Grassland

The Fort Pierre National Grassland is a vast area of rolling prairie in central South Dakota. It provides excellent opportunities for hunting, birdwatching, and exploring the wide-open spaces of the prairie ecosystem. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sharp-tailed grouse and white-tailed deer.

11. Custer National Forest

Custer National Forest, although primarily located in Montana, extends into western South Dakota. It is known for its rugged landscapes, forested hills, and open prairies. The forest offers hiking, camping, and opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the region's diverse ecosystems.

12. Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located in northeastern South Dakota, is one of the most important waterfowl breeding and migration areas in the Central Flyway. The refuge features wetlands, lakes, and grasslands that support numerous species of birds, making it a top destination for birdwatchers.

13. Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave is the third-longest cave in the world, with over 200 miles of mapped passages. It is famous for its jewel-like calcite crystals and other unique formations. Visitors can explore the cave through guided tours, and the surrounding area offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.







South Dakota Ecoregions

Ecoregions of South Dakota

Black Hills Section

The Black Hills Ecoregion is located in western South Dakota and is characterized by its mountainous terrain and pine forests. It supports diverse wildlife and is a popular tourist area.

North-Central Glaciated Plains Section

This ecoregion covers much of eastern South Dakota, defined by its flat to rolling terrain shaped by past glaciation. It is primarily agricultural, with wetlands and grasslands providing important habitats for birds.

Central Dissected Till Plains Section

This section is characterized by its rolling hills and loess-covered plains, resulting from ancient glaciation. It is highly fertile and supports extensive agricultural activities, particularly crop farming.

Nebraska Sand Hills Section

Located in the southern part of South Dakota, the Nebraska Sand Hills Section features sandy soils and dunes stabilized by grasses. It is an important area for ranching and wildlife habitat, including numerous bird species.

North-Central Great Plains Section

This ecoregion stretches across central South Dakota, where the landscape transitions into more arid plains. The section is known for its mixed-grass prairies and is used extensively for cattle grazing and dryland farming.

Northern Glaciated Plains Section

This ecoregion covers parts of northeastern South Dakota and features gently rolling plains formed by past glaciation. It is predominantly agricultural, with small prairie remnants and wetlands scattered throughout.

Northwestern Great Plains Section

Located in western South Dakota, the Northwestern Great Plains Ecoregion is characterized by vast grasslands and a semi-arid climate. It is mainly used for ranching, with some areas supporting dryland farming.

Red River Valley Section

This ecoregion, located in the far northeastern corner of South Dakota, features flat floodplains and rich soils, making it one of the most productive agricultural regions in the state. It supports crops like wheat, soybeans, and corn.

Western Glaciated Plains Section

This ecoregion extends into central and western South Dakota, characterized by a mix of rolling plains and glaciated terrain. Agriculture and ranching dominate the land use, and the area is known for its fertile soils and wetlands that support waterfowl populations.