Sertoma Park

Natural Escape in the City

Nestled along an old oxbow of the Big Sioux River, Sertoma Park spans a generous 100 acres in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It's one of those places where you can truly disconnect - with ponds reflecting the sky, wooded areas that rustle with life, and green spaces that seem to stretch forever.

The park's story began back in 1986, when the Sioux Falls Sertoma Club partnered with the local Parks and Recreation Department to create something special for the community. They broke ground on April 25, 1989, and what has grown since then has become a popular city landmark.

Trails and Outdoor Fun

If you're looking to get your steps in, you're in luck. The park has extensive walking and biking trails that wind through various natural areas and connect to the city's larger trail network. If you're an avid cyclist, a dedicated jogger, or just someone who enjoys a leisurely nature walk, these paths offer a great backdrop for outdoor activity.

For families, the playground complex is quite substantial. There are at least four different play areas designed with specific age groups in mind, each featuring unique equipment. Kids particularly love the climbing dome (affectionately called the "spiderweb" by locals), while the ranger/forest-themed area sparks imagination in children of all ages. With surfaces ranging from wood chips to turf, there's appropriate play space for everyone from toddlers to pre-teens.

The large central pavilion is a community gathering spot, with enough shade and seating for any occasion. With roughly 30 picnic tables under its roof, it's ideal for everything from family reunions to birthday celebrations. Throughout the rest of the park, you'll find plenty of picnic areas complete with tables and grills - excellent for enjoying a meal while keeping an eye on the kids as they play.

Vibrant sea anemones create an underwater display in the Butterfly House & Aquarium

Photo: Joseph Gage (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Unique Attractions

What makes Sertoma Park special extends beyond its natural beauty. The Outdoor Campus, run by South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, offers fantastic educational programs focused on outdoor skills and conservation. Their hiking trails through the woods and around serene ponds provide an excellent opportunity to connect with nature.

The park is also home to the Butterfly House & Aquarium, where you can observe colorful butterflies fluttering freely and get up close with fascinating marine creatures. While there is an admission fee, it's a worthwhile experience, especially for curious young minds.

Take some time to visit the Japanese Garden - a thoughtful gift from Sioux Falls' sister city, Potsdam, Germany. For those interested in astronomy, the Sertoma solar system display offers an educational glimpse into our planetary neighborhood.

One of the nice features is the Sertoma Rock Snake, a growing community art project that you can contribute to by adding your own painted rock.

Nature and Community

The park's diverse natural areas create habitats for all sorts of wildlife. On a good day, you might spot local birds darting between trees, small mammals scurrying about, or even catch glimpses of frogs and turtles near the water features.

Sertoma Park is a popular green space in Sioux Falls, particularly among families. Open daily from 5AM to 10PM, the park maintains clean facilities, including convenient flush restrooms near the parking area.

Throughout the seasons, the park hosts events, provides recreation, and offers a peaceful retreat for anyone seeking a moment with nature without leaving the city limits.