Union Grove State Park
Overview
Horseback riders, hikers, bikers and cross-country skiers enjoy several miles of trail through the forest along Brule Creek. Rich glacial soils supporting a lush growth of native woods is the scenic setting for this hidden treasure. Deer, wild turkeys, beaver, and many small animals abound in the park as well as a variety of trees and plant life. Birdwatchers will enjoy the opportunities to see many species of birds including cardinals, orioles, goesbeaks, warblers, red-winged blackbirds, bluejays, and pheasants. Campers enjoy the quiet, well-shaded campsites and the horse camp is the perfect base for a weekend of riding.
Horseback riding is a big draw to this park, with 150 acres available for riding. The rolling hills covered with lush native plants provide excellent opportunities to spot some wildlife along the way. After a day of riding, visitors can spend the night at the Union Grove horse camp, which features four electrical sites.
Union Grove State Park began as a County Park around 1936. The Brule Creek was dammed to create a small lake. The lake has since filled with silt and the dam was removed. The land was leased to the State of South Dakota in 1946. Since then the park has been host to residents and vacationers alike.
Deer, wild turkeys, beaver and many small animals abound in the park as well as a variety of trees and plant life. Birdwatchers will enjoy the opportunities to see many species of birds including cardinals, orioles, goesbeaks, warblers, red-winged blackbirds, bluejays, pheasants and wild turkeys.
The park is ablaze with color during the fall. Leaves changing color and the variety of birds attracted to ripening fruit trees create a spectacular autumn festival. Many area residents plan a fall trip to Union Grove to see the colorful show.
Activities
Bicycling
Visitors can bike on the Mosey Meadow Multi-Use Trail, a 4.3-mile, moderately hilly trail.
Camping
The park has 25 campsites including four horse camp sites. Visitors can camp May-September.
Hiking
The park has two hiking trails: the Mosey Meadow Multi-Use Trail and Brule Bottom Hiking Trail. The Mosey Meadow Trail is 4.3-miles and moderately hilly. Brule Bottom is 1.2 miles long and also hilly.
Historic Sites
Union Grove State Park began as a County Park around 1936. The Brule Creek was dammed to create a small lake. The lake has since filled with silt and the dam was removed. The land was leased to the State of South Dakota in 1946. Since then the park has been host to residents and vacationers alike.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a big draw to this park, with 150 acres available for riding. The rolling hills covered with lush native plants provide excellent opportunities to spot some wildlife along the way. After a day of riding, visitors can spend the night at the Union Grove horse camp, which features four electrical sites.
Hunting
All types of hunting are allowed within the park from October 1 until May 1 during designated hunting seasons.
Picnicking
There is a picnic shelter, as well as a separate picnic table, on the creek.
Winter Sports
Snowshoeing is allowed on the Brule Bottom Hiking Trail. Both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are allowed on the Mosey Meadow Multi-Use Trail.
Seasonality/Weather
The park is open year-round. The campsites are open May-September. The park offers winter and summer recreation opportunities.
Directions
Driving
Located 11 miles S of Beresford off I-29
Phone Numbers
Primary
(605) 987-2263Campground reservations
(800) 710-2267Links
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