America is full of historical places that are ideal for a day trip with friends or family. In South Dakota, there are many spots, including Frawley Ranch, Wounded Knee Battlefield, and Fort Meade National Cemetery. One of our favorite blasts into the past is Fort Sisseton Historic State Park, which is open year-round to the public. Read on to find out why we recommend visiting this gem.

Fort Sisseton was established in 1884. The park includes 35 acres and has 15 buildings within it, as well as nine sites for visitors to explore.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

The spot of the fort was picked primarily because its natural design provided a strong defense for soldiers. The land also came with a lake from which to drink and trees for fuel as well as building. Lime and clay, which were ideal for making bricks, came with the land, too.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

Throughout the park, you can find buildings such as the officers’ quarters, stone barracks, powder magazines, and guardhouses, as well as other original structures that have been preserved.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

Fort Sisseton hosts an annual historical festival that attracts thousands upon thousands of visitors each June. The festivals provide entertainment as well as cultural and history lessons to their attendees.

Rural Learning Center/Flickr

In the historic state park, feel free to bike, fish, snowshoe, boat, canoe, kayak, and more. Rentals for fishing poles, canoes, and kayaks are available.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

Campsites are also available to rent. Plus, there is a visitor center where you can talk to a park employee to see how to get the most out of your visit to the fort.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

Doesn’t that make you want to take a historical day trip? We’ll meet you there! Let us know what you learn from your visit in the comments below, and visit the Fort Sisseton Historic State Park website or Facebook page for more information, including hours of operation and entrance fees.

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

Rural Learning Center/Flickr

Don’t forget to check out our previous article for another South Dakota destinations that’s pure heaven for history buffs!

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Address: Fort Sisseton Historic State Park, 11907 434th Ave, Lake City, SD 57247, USA