The Outdoor Campus sign
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The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls

4.7
·98 reviews·Sioux Falls, United States

A free, nature-focused campus with trails, exhibits, and educational programs for all ages in Sioux Falls.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More events and activities

CrowdMedium
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The Outdoor Campus sign

The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls

Best Time

Weekends

More events and activities

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free, nature-focused campus with trails, exhibits, and educational programs for all ages in Sioux Falls.

4.7
(98 reviews)

"Great place to take kids or for a nature walk. A great place to check out!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Don't miss out! Grab a schedule at the building for classes, fishing days, and workshops.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring trails, so good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Nature Trails

Scenic Nature Trails

Throughout the campus

Wander through beautiful landscapes, perfect for a peaceful nature walk or an engaging scavenger hunt for kids.

Instagram+1
Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Indoor building

Discover local wildlife with live turtles, frogs, and snakes, plus engaging displays for all ages.

Reddit
Fishing Pond

Fishing Pond

Small lake

Enjoy supervised fishing opportunities, especially during special events like Family Fest.

Instagram
Waterfowl & Hunting Workshops

Waterfowl & Hunting Workshops

Various locations

Learn the essentials of waterfowl hunting, from calling to decoy setup, in hands-on classes.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors for Free

The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls offers a fantastic free experience for all ages. With extensive trails, interactive exhibits, and regular educational programs, it's a budget-friendly way to connect with nature. Check their schedule for special events like fishing days or hunting workshops to maximize your visit. Reddit

Plan Around Events

This campus thrives on its diverse event calendar, from 'Duck Day' to ice fishing open houses. Many visitors recommend checking the schedule upon arrival or online to catch hands-on activities and educational sessions. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More events and activities
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter trails and exhibits
Crowd
Low
When
During Special Events
Why
Unique hands-on experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cant beat that 🦆🦆#ducks #waterfowl #fyp #migra #luckyduckdecoys #Outdoors #souixfallssouthdakota #southdakota
@dylan_smith_productions
4.3K likes • 22.4K views

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Don't miss out! Grab a schedule at the building for classes, fishing days, and workshops. InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring trails, so good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable visit. Instagram

Exciting opportunity for nature enthusiasts! 🌿 We're now accepting applications for our Spring Naturalist Internships at The Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls. If you have a passion for the outdoors, love wildlife, and want to share that knowledge with others, this is the perfect chance to gain hands-on experience. Apply now and be part of our team this spring! 🌸 https://gfp.sd.gov/internships/
outdoorcampus_siouxfalls
14 likes • 469 views
Did someone say FREE Fishing🎣! Make sure to stop by the Outdoor Campus tomorrow during the Fun Cruise to pick up your Swag Bag, the book walk and FREE Fishing on the pond!! #letscruise #familyfest #siouxfalls #onthemap #funcruise #familyfun #freefishing
familyfest_sf
23 likes • 1.1K views

🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear

If you plan to fish, bring your own rod and reel for the supervised pond. Instagram

📚 Explore Educational Plots

Look for labeled plants on trails to learn about local flora, just like in other nature centers. Reddit

Exploring the best of Sioux Falls, SD! Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong local, these spots are worth a visit 👇 📍 The Outdoor Campus Perfect for families & nature lovers—walk scenic trails, explore interactive exhibits, or join fun educational programs. 📍 Denny Sanford PREMIER Center From concerts to sports to big events, this is the hub for entertainment in Sioux Falls. 📍 Butterfly ...
julierothrealestateteam
5 likes • 159 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Don't miss out! Grab a schedule at the building for classes, fishing days, and workshops. InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring trails, so good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable visit. Instagram

🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear

If you plan to fish, bring your own rod and reel for the supervised pond. Instagram

📚 Explore Educational Plots

Look for labeled plants on trails to learn about local flora, just like in other nature centers. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

The campus offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially along the river path. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(98 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls for its free admission, beautiful trails, and engaging educational programs. It's a highly recommended spot for families and nature lovers seeking a peaceful and informative experience. Some wish for more indoor activities during inclement weather, but the outdoor offerings are generally considered exceptional.

"Large outdoor park and trail system. Free to public. They host educational classes and activities. There is a small lake with supervised fishing and an archery range. Great place to take kids or for a nature walk. Located next to Sertoma Park. A great place to check out!"

Ryan Stutson

"Wonderful free site

There are a few indoor activities and exhibits. Outside there are several trails including trail books, or scavenger hunts for kids.

There is a gathering area for events that has some small play items for presentations.

They have a huge list of events. They always have more offerings than the West campus, making me wish I lived closer for the events."

Jessica Carmichael

"Great place to take kids or for a nature walk. Located next to Sertoma Park. A great place to check out!"

Ryan

What People Like

Free admission
Beautiful nature trails
Engaging educational events

What People Dislike

Limited indoor activities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Outdoor Campus is conveniently located next to Sertoma Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors find it a straightforward drive within the city. Instagram+1

Information on public transportation routes to The Outdoor Campus is not widely available. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access for visitors. Instagram

There is generally ample parking available at The Outdoor Campus, making it easy for visitors arriving by car. Instagram

Yes, it's located next to Sertoma Park, a well-known landmark in Sioux Falls, making it relatively easy to locate. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, the campus is adjacent to park areas, suggesting that biking to the location might be feasible via local trails, though direct bike access information is limited. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls is completely free to the public, making it a wonderful and accessible destination for everyone. Reddit

No, admission to The Outdoor Campus is free. You do not need to purchase tickets to explore the grounds or visit the indoor exhibits. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, especially for indoor exhibits and specific events. It's best to check their official website or grab a schedule upon arrival for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

While general admission is free, some specialized classes or workshops, like the 'Intro to Waterfowl Hunting' class, may have associated fees. Check the event details for specifics. Instagram

It's advisable to check their schedule for holiday hours, as some facilities may have altered operating times or be closed on certain public holidays. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore scenic nature trails, visit indoor exhibits with live animals, enjoy supervised fishing, and participate in numerous educational programs and events. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The campus features gorgeous trails perfect for nature walks, bird watching, and enjoying the outdoors. InstagramReddit+1

Inside the building, you can see live turtles, frogs, and snakes. The outdoor areas offer opportunities for bird watching and observing local wildlife. TikTokReddit

Yes, it's highly recommended for kids! They offer scavenger hunts, interactive exhibits, and many family-friendly events like 'Duck Day'. Instagram+2

Yes, there's a small lake with supervised fishing. They even host free fishing events during certain times. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Outdoor Campus primarily focuses on outdoor education and activities. There are no on-site dining facilities, so it's recommended to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy, especially for a picnic on the grounds. There are seating areas available. Reddit

Being located within Sioux Falls, there are numerous restaurants and cafes a short drive away from The Outdoor Campus, offering a variety of dining options. Instagram

No, The Outdoor Campus does not have a cafe or snack bar. Visitors should come prepared with their own refreshments. Reddit

Yes, the campus provides seating areas and beautiful grounds that are perfect for picnics. It's a great way to extend your visit and enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic nature trails, especially those along the river, offer beautiful natural backdrops. The indoor exhibits with live animals also provide unique photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout The Outdoor Campus for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific exhibit guidelines. Instagram

You can take photos of the animals in the indoor exhibits, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid flash photography, which can disturb them. Reddit

Specific drone usage policies are not detailed, but it's generally advisable to check with the campus administration or local regulations regarding drone operation in park areas. Instagram

Nature photography, wildlife shots, and family portraits against the scenic backdrop are popular. The campus also hosts events that can be great for candid photography. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls is a dream for families! Admission is free, and there are tons of activities to keep kids entertained. Explore the interactive exhibits with live animals like turtles and snakes,Reddit embark on scavenger hunts along the scenic trails,Reddit or try your hand at supervised fishing during special events.Instagram Don't miss out on their frequent family-friendly programs like 'Duck Day' Instagram – check the schedule for the latest offerings! Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

This is your spot! The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls is completely free to enter, offering a wealth of activities without costing a dime. Enjoy miles of scenic walking trails, explore educational exhibits, and even participate in many free events and workshops.Reddit It's an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and educational offerings of Sioux Falls on a budget. Reddit

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love the outdoors, The Outdoor Campus provides a serene escape. Wander through beautifully maintained trails,InstagramReddit observe local birdlife, and learn about regional flora and fauna through labeled plant plots.Reddit The campus also hosts specialized programs like waterfowl hunting introductions,Instagram appealing to a wide range of outdoor interests. It's a peaceful place to connect with nature and deepen your understanding of the environment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Educational Programs & Events

The Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls is renowned for its extensive range of educational programs and events, catering to all ages and interests. From hands-on 'Intro to Waterfowl Hunting' classes Instagram to 'Duck Day' activities Instagram and open house ice fishing events,Instagram there's always something happening. These programs are designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Many visitors highlight the value of these free or low-cost opportunities, noting that checking the schedule upon arrival or online is crucial to not miss out. Reddit

Internships are also available, offering valuable experience for those passionate about nature and education. Instagram The campus utilizes its indoor exhibits, outdoor trails, and even a small lake for these engaging sessions. The interactive nature of these events, such as learning to make native flower prints Instagram or exploring plant life on educational plots,Reddit makes learning fun and memorable for families and individuals alike. Instagram

Exploring the Trails and Wildlife

The campus boasts gorgeous, well-maintained trails that are perfect for a leisurely nature walk or a more active exploration. InstagramReddit These paths wind through scenic landscapes, offering opportunities for bird watching and observing local flora and fauna. Visitors often praise the cleanliness of the trails and the overall tranquility of the environment. Reddit

Inside the main building, you can get up close with local wildlife, including live turtles, frogs, and snakes. Reddit While outdoor wildlife sightings can vary, the natural setting provides a good habitat for various species. The campus also offers trail books and scavenger hunts for kids, making the exploration even more engaging for younger visitors. InstagramReddit

Family Fun and Activities

The Outdoor Campus is a fantastic destination for families looking for free, engaging activities. The interactive exhibits and live animals are a hit with children, providing educational entertainment. InstagramReddit Special events like 'Duck Day' Instagram and free fishing days Instagram are particularly popular, offering hands-on fun. The campus also features a small play area for kids near the back of the building. Reddit

Scavenger hunts and trail books are available to keep younger visitors entertained as they explore the scenic trails. Reddit The campus actively encourages community involvement and offers a wide array of events that are perfect for a family outing, making it a go-to spot for Sioux Falls residents and visitors alike. Instagram

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