Big Sioux Recreation Area
Big Sioux Recreation Area lies on the banks of South Dakota's Big Sioux River. Close to both the cities of Brandon and Sioux Falls, Big Sioux is an ideal place to camp when in the area for sporting events, hospital visits or conferences. Big Sioux is popular among campers, canoers, history buffs and archers. When the snow flies, groups of cross-country skiers and snowmobilers gather at the enclosed warming house.
The Big Sioux area was home to bands of American Indians. The river provided fish, clams and waterfowl, as well as transportation to the north and south. Trees for fuel and lodges were readily available and drinking water was abundant. A log house and storm cellar marks the original Ole Bergerson homestead. In 1868, Bergerson helped Ole Iverson, the area's first settler, build a dugout. The men wintered in the dugout and the following year, Bergerson built his own log home using hand-hewn cottonwood logs. Some of the trees in the park are among the oldest in the state. Open year-round, park entrance and/or fishing license are required.
