South Dakota was acquired with the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. At that time the region was part of the Sioux and some brave fur trappers. It was only in the 1850s that the rich soil attracted different settlers. South Dakota is not a very rich state but has a vibrant tourism industry.

South Dakota is situated in the western north-central US. It ranks 16th in size among the 50 states covering a total area of 77,121 sq mi (199,730 sq km), comprising 75,896 sq mi (196,715 sq km) of land and 1,164 sq mi (3,015 sq km) of inland water.

The state is shaped roughly like a rectangle with irregular borders on the East and South East. South Dakota is bordered on the North by North Dakota; on the East by Minnesota and Iowa; on the South by Nebraska; and on the West by Wyoming and Montana.

South Dakota is an important tourist destination and much of its economy depends upon the tourism industry. Extraordinary beauty, unbelievable natural wonders, and unique activities make up South Dakota. From National Caves to Badland National Park, to Black Hills National Forest to Mount Rushmore National Memorial – South Dakota boasts several interesting places as tourist destinations. If you are a person highly interested in outdoor activities, you can go for hiking or walking on the state hiking trail system or cycling in South Dakota’s fat-tire and road rides. Skiing, snowmobiling, skating or ice fishing are some of the winter activities that you can indulge in South Dakota.