Mount Rushmore National Memorial
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South Dakota is the definition of a hidden gem. To witness its sunsets is to stand face-to-face with the story of Earth itself. There is a purity to the natural light that lends each image a fairytale realness that personifies the idea of escapism. South Dakota is also replete with industry professionals with unrivaled work ethic and creative drive. The filmmakers I know who have shot here want to keep the secret for themselves, but some treasure must be shared. South Dakota is America’s best kept filmmaking secret.” – Andrew Kightlinger, writer-director, "Tater Tot & Patton"
SOUTH DAKOTA South Dakota’s breathtaking landscapes include sprawling prairies, glacial lakes, dramatic mountains and striking geological formations. The state welcomes millions of annual visitors who come to experience iconic attractions like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and Badlands National Park. The state is steeped in Native American culture, iconic small-town living and real-life cowboys. Westerns, thrillers and contemporary dramas have all utilized South Dakota’s diverse backdrops.
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South Dakota offers filmmakers and producers excellent – and economical – ways to achieve their cinematic vision. With room to work and beauty to work with, South Dakota’s legendary rock formations, wildlife and open prairies make it the perfect location for iconic backdrops or intimate interiors. In South Dakota, you'll find experienced crews, a low cost of doing business and incredible locations for your next film.
including prairie dogs, bighorn sheep and buffalo. Skeletons of three-toed horses and sabertoothed cats may also be found amid the park’s rocky terrain. From narrow pathways to open land, the Badlands possess a rare combination of landscapes guaranteed to captivate any audience. The park was most recently featured in the Academy Award-winning film Nomadland (2020).
FEATURED LOCATIONS Badlands National Park Badlands National Park boasts 244,000 acres of buttes, canyons, pinnacles and spires. The park is home to a variety of wildlife,
Historic Deadwood This 1870s gold rush town became a National Historic Landmark in 1961 and has since been the pinnacle of Old West history and culture. Surrounded by the Black
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