Featured South Dakota Maps
About Map of South Dakota
The map of South Dakota provides the users with a clear idea about the exact location of the prominent landmarks of the state. Clearly listed on the map are the important airports, rail service, tourist places, educational institutes, museums, resorts, national parks and other important destinations. The map is a useful guide for travelers, teachers, students and researchers.
About South Dakota
South Dakota is situated in the Midwestern region of the country. It is the 17th most extensive state in the United States. As of 2015, there were 858,469 people living in the state which makes it the 46th most populous in the country. Pierre is the Capital of South Dakota, while Sioux Falls is its largest city. Also known by its nickname of The South Rushmore State, South Dakota is made up of 66 counties.
History of South Dakota
Prior to the advent of the Europeans in the 18th century, the region was inhabited by native Indian tribes. The LaVerendrye group, who were French Canadian fur traders and explorers, claimed the area for France in 1743. The area was claimed as a part of the Greater Louisiana; however, in 1762 the area passed into Spanish hands and became a part of the Spanish Louisiana and remained so until 1802. The next year, 1803, the Louisiana Territory was purchased by the United States from Napoleon Bonaparte. According to the 1858 Treaty which was signed by the Yankton Sioux in 1858, a major part of the current eastern Dakota was handed over to the US. The government of the United States formed the Dakota Territory in 1861. On November 2, 1889, Dakota Territory was split into two and on the same day the two new states of North Dakota and South Dakota were admitted to the Union.
Geography of South Dakota
Covering an area of 78,116 square miles, South Dakota is divided into three regions which are: Black Hills, eastern South Dakota, and western South Dakota. The state shares its borders with North Dakota, Montana, Iowa, Wyoming, Minnesota, and Nebraska. Black Elk Peak, which has a height of 2,200 feet, is the highest point in the state. Some important rivers of the state are Missouri River, which is the largest as well as the longest in the state, Big Sioux, Cheyenne, White Rivers, and James. Apart from the Black Elk Peak, some other important mountains of the state are Bear Mountain, Thunder Butte, Terry Peak, Iron Mountain, among others. Animals found in the state include bison, deer, prairie dogs to name a few. Ring-necked pheasant is the state bird. Paddlefish can also be found in the Missouri River.
Travel Destinations in South Dakota
Mount Rushmore National Monument is prominent tourist attraction. What makes it unique is the faces of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt that have been carved into the side of the mountain. Badlands national park provides a glimpse into the exotic flora and fauna of the state. Visit this amazing Mammoth Site and look at the bones of the extinct animal. The National Music Museum & Center for Study of the History of Musical Instruments comprises musical instruments from around the world. Other places worth visiting are Old Courthouse Museum, Sertoma Butterfly House and Marine Cove, Pettigrew Home and Museum - Sioux Falls, and Spearfish Canyon to name a few.
Transportation in South Dakota
Prominent Interstate located in South Dakota are I-90 and I-29. Sioux Falls Regional Airport and Rapid City Regional Airport are the largest airports in the state. The largest railroad in South Dakota is BNSF Railway. Other important ones are Eastern Railroad, Rapid City, and Pierre. Amtrak service does not operate here.
Education in South Dakota
Some prominent universities in South Dakota are South Dakota State University, University of South Dakota, Dakota State University, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, and Augustana University to name a few.
Interesting Facts About South Dakota
- Clark is referred to as the Potato Capital of South Dakota.
- Capital of South Dakota, Pierre, is not served by any interstate highway.
- The lowest point in South Dakota is the Big Stone Lake on Minnesota border
MOW.DT.12.9.16
Last Updated on: September 1st, 2017
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