The Outdoor Campus
4.7FreeClosed · opens 8:00 AMExplore native South Dakota wildlife, scenic walking trails, and indoor exhibits.
Located in Rapid City near the Black Hills region, The Outdoor Campus West is a state-run park dedicated to environmental education and outdoor skills. Visitors can explore interactive wildlife exhibits, an aquarium, outdoor walking trails, and fishing ponds. The campus also offers free hands-on educational programs covering outdoor recreation and conservation.
Expert notes
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities.
- Bring water and snacks for longer visits.
- Check the weather before your visit and dress accordingly.
- Participate in guided tours and programs for a richer experience.
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Features
- Community events
- Demonstration gardens
- Educational programs
- Event space
- Fishing pond
- Hiking trails
- Interactive exhibits
- Kids' activities
- Nature exploration opportunities
- Outdoor classrooms
- Picnic areas
- Restroom facilities
- Seasonal programs
- Wildlife observation areas
- Workshops
More things to do in Mount Rushmore
Crazy Horse Memorial$$Monumental mountain carving honoring Native American heritage in South Dakota
Mount Rushmore$$Experience America's monumental history carved into the majestic Black Hills
Wild Water West$$South Dakota's largest outdoor waterpark and entertainment destination in Sioux Falls
The Mammoth Site$$Explore an active paleontological dig site featuring prehistoric mammoth fossils
Pactola LakeFreeThe largest and deepest reservoir in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Iron Mountain RoadFreeDrive a famous Black Hills scenic highway framing Mount Rushmore