When you think of national parks in South Dakota, places like the Badlands National Park or Wind Cave National Park may come to mind. The state has many national parks, monuments, and sites, but did you know that there are lost national parks here? The Fossil Cycad National Park is a fascinating part of South Dakota history, it was a 320-acre area in Fall River County that was known to be loaded with fossils of a prehistoric type of fern, or a cycad.

US-NPS/Wikimedia
Fossil cycads look like this, and this place was full of them embedded in the ground. It was named as a national monument officially in 1922, and was "probably one of the most interesting fossil-plant beds yet discovered, with the most perfectly preserved specimens, and is known to scientific people throughout the world." It contained prehistoric plants never seen before and was a captivating site for scientists and the average person alike. So what happened? Why is this fascinating piece of South Dakota geology no longer a national park?
National Park Services
The monument had been stripped clean of all the fossils. Many people, including vandals, had already looted all of visible fossils then the land was excavated away to uncover underground fossils in 1935, shown in the picture above. Once it became clear that what once was a marvel for being one of the most extensive fossil plant beds ever was now empty, the title of a national park was taken away in 1957.

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Today, the land remains as it was. The construction of a highway through part of it uncovered some more fossils, and many may still lay hidden beneath the earth, but there is no talk of the national title ever being reinstated. The area is beautiful and once held even more fascinating and amazing aspects but unfortunately never will again, not at the same magnitude.
Tony Webster/Flickr

Check out this fascinating video to learn more about the history of this lost park:

Despite losing this park, South Dakota still has many official state and national parks to be seen. If you’re planning a visit to one of our incredible national parks, there’s no better time to visit than during National Park Week. Learn all about this celebration of America’s great outdoors — including fee-free days throughout the year!

What is your favorite national park to visit in South Dakota? Let us know then check out these state parks in South Dakota if you are interested in exploring those that still exist today.

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National Park To Visit In South Dakota

Beth Price-Williams | April 06, 2022

What are the best things to do outside in South Dakota?

Can you think of any better way to enjoy all that South Dakota has to offer than simply going outside? We live in one of the most beautiful states in the country, and there are so many things to do outside in South Dakota that it might be tough to know where to start. Try some of these adventures:

  • How about a trip to the highest point in South Dakota? The trail to Black Elk Peak can get rough, but it’s well worth it for the spellbinding views of the Black Hills National Forest that await.
  • If you’re up for a multi-day adventure, set off on the George S. Mickelson State Trail. It covers 109 miles and travels from Edgemont to Deadwood. The picturesque trail passes charming towns, where you can stop for a bite to eat or hop off for an overnight stay.
  • If you’ve never been to the top of Bear Butte, add it to your bucket list. The trail to the top tallies 3.6 miles, and it’s absolutely worth every step to drink in some of the most breathtaking views in South Dakota.

What are the best parks in South Dakota?

We can all probably agree that we have some pretty amazing state parks in South Dakota. We just have to decide which one to visit next:

  • Custer State Park in Custer earns props for its gorgeous natural scenery and beautiful scenic drive. You’ll likely spot local wildlife, too.
  • Lake Herman State Park in Madison provides an idyllic backdrop for a family getaway, offering such amenities as boating, fishing, and camping. Chances are you’ll want to camp out at least one night.
  • If you like gorgeous views and climbing, you’ll love Palisades State Park in Garretson. While away the hours climbing massive rock formations; snap photos of the chiseled cliffs; and spend the night for a camping adventure.

 

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