‘hood
SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE
Embracing Health and Fitness as a Family
Amazing for amazing kids care care
Our pediatric specialty care is designed to meet families right where they are. At South Dakota’s only hospital just for kids, our team is specially trained to care for children with complex or chronic conditions, injuries and illnesses.
BE SAFE & BE SEEN WHILE WALKING.
• Stop and look left, then right, then left again for moving cars before you step into the street.
• Cross streets at corners or in crosswalks.
• Walk on the sidewalk facing traffic.
• Be aware of traffic – don’t be distracted by your phone!
• Day: wear brightly colored clothing.
• Night: use a flashlight or wear reflective material.
BE AWARE. STAY FOCUSED!
Every day is a new adventure when you create your own construction zone!
Use blocks, wood, bricks, and other found items to build without limits at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota.
Show us your designs at # PlayAlon g SD
Happy Fall!
It’s hard to believe summer is over, and the kids are back in school. If you’re like me, you’re probably still holding onto those last remnants of warm weather and are eager to soak up as much outside time as possible.
But don’t worry—just because summer has ended doesn’t mean the fun has to! We’ve got a complete list of exciting things to do this fall before the cold weather truly sets in. From exploring local apple orchards and indulging in fresh cider doughnuts to visiting vibrant pumpkin patches and getting lost in twisty corn mazes, this season is filled with opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.
In this issue, you will find three families who share their passions with us. Read about a mom who is on a journey to support her son with dyslexia, a local firefighter dad who is passionate about fire safety, and a family that prioritizes family health and fitness.
So grab a sweater, head outside, and let’s make the most of this beautiful season before winter comes knocking!
Steff
Steffanie Holtrop Publisher
President & Publisher
Steffanie Holtrop 605-366-1479
steff@thehoodmagazine.com
Editor
Sarah Parker
Art & Design Director
Ally Chase
Digital Media Director
Jaclyn Small
Client Relations
Shelbi Kielhold
Jennifer Fleming admin@thehoodmagazine.com
Calendar
Jessie Paquette
Circulation
Ben Graff and Laura Kattenberg
Cover Photo
Ashley D Photography
Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited.
‘Hood Magazine is published 7 times a year by Hoodlum Productions, LLC and strives to publish only accurate information; however, Hoodlum Productions, LLC cannot be held responsible for consequences resulting from errors or omissions. All material in this magazine is the property of Hoodlum Productions, LLC and cannot be reproduced without permission of the publisher.
©2024 Hoodlum Productions, LLC All Rights Reserved.
challenges or supporting adults recovering from brain injuries, Tricia’s impact is profound. Her efforts even extend to acquiring autographed items from professional athletes to inspire young patients to pursue their dreams. Thanks to her unwavering dedication, children who once struggled to read are now excelling academically, and adults recovering from traumatic experiences are rediscovering the joys of life. “Tricia has an amazing ability to read and understand people to determine what they need,” said Dr. Ashley Gentrup. “She meets patients where they are, connects with them, and then motivates them to improve their situation.”
‘hood Online
Easy DIY Halloween Costumes
Find yourself in need of a quick Halloween costume? Whether you forgot to plan, a costume broke, or your child changed their mind at the last minute, we’ve got you covered! Check out these easy DIY costume ideas using common household items that will save the day.
25 Fun Family Night Activities Without Screens
Looking for ways to unplug and connect as a family? This article offers 25 creative and engaging activities to enjoy together without screens, from board game nights to homemade ice cream making. Dive into the complete list of ideas online and start planning your next screen-free family night!
Bored Preschooler?
10 Activities that Encourage Independent Play
Is your preschooler feeling bored? Discover 10 creative activities that keep them entertained and encourage independent play! From building epic LEGO creations to imaginative role-playing as a doctor, these ideas will turn boredom into fun! Check out the full article to explore all the suggestions.
Weekend Trip Guide: Kansas City
Check out our guide for family-friendly spots in Kansas City, plus fun stops on the drive! Explore interactive museums, enjoy a world-class zoo, and discover roadside attractions. This article offers plenty of ideas to make your family adventure memorable. We’ve got you covered with the best places to visit and why your family will love them!
‘hood
september FEATURED EVENTS
The Sioux Falls Area is full of fun family events! Check out some of our favorite upcoming events below. For a complete list of area events, check out our online Calendar!
6-8 Big Top Weekend at the Orchard
The County Apple Orchard
A weekend with Mr. Twister and SD’s very own circus performance company, South Dakota Aerial & Arts! Aerial, juggling, baton and partner acrobatics along with public Try-Its! Balloon animals, live music and face painting too! It’s sure to be a BIG weekend of fun for the whole family!
21
8
Homesteader Day
Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the pioneer life from over 100 years ago. The historical Samuelson cabin will be open. There will be demonstrations, music, and more. The event is FREE!
SoDak Circuit, Sioux Falls Convention Center
Registration is filling up fast! This all-ages, free esports event features Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Fortnite, Rocket League, Valorant, and a custom racing simulator. Special brackets are available for select games to include younger participants.
26
S’more Halloween Fun Run
Tuthill Park
Enjoy both a fun run and a tasty treat! Run to different stations to earn different parts of a s’more. At the end of the race, arrive at a bonfire where you can enjoy your s’more! Registration is required.
26
Spooky Science Washington Pavilion
Enjoy this all-day Halloween Event, perfect for the whole family. Explore art and science with a fun twist! Costumes are encouraged but not required. Every child will get a bag of candy!
Beaver Creek Nature Area
SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE
by Sarah Parker
Navigating Dyslexia: A Mother and Educator’s Journey
Kylie’s journey with her son Coy’s dyslexia has been both challenging and rewarding. When she first suspected that Coy might be dyslexic, thanks to an insightful teacher who had identified her nephew’s diagnosis, she found the situation overwhelming. As both a mother and an educator, Kylie felt an immediate pressure to know how to help her son. Like most parents, she was determined to do everything possible to support her child. Even with her background in education, she initially had many questions and concerns.
and furthering her education by obtaining an
He has learned to advocate for himself and now proudly identifies as dyslexic.
Dyslexic Training Institute, Kylie and her family have
Advocate for your Child: A Teacher and Parent’s Perspective
From both a teacher’s and a parent’s perspective, Kylie knows that advocating positively for your child about anything involves working closely with their teachers. Reflecting on her college education, Kylie noticed a significant lack of instruction on dyslexia. This realization motivated her to advocate not only for Coy but also for his teachers, many of whom had not been trained to understand or support the unique needs of dyslexic students. Fortunately, Coy has benefited from teachers who are willing and eager to learn and support him.
Kylie realized the importance of furthering her education to better advocate for Coy and become a more effective teacher herself. Her goal now is to help students and families understand why reading
Given that dyslexia affects approximately 1 in 5 students, Kylie is passionate about educating others.
Encouragement for Parents
Through her experience, Kylie has learned the importance of patience and understanding. Dyslexia affects every child differently, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. She emphasizes the need to recognize that a dyslexic brain has many strengths, and parents should embrace the skills and
20 YEARS OF DEDICATION
vision therapist tricia miller reaches milestone
In a world where career changes are increasingly common, Tricia Miller stands out as a shining example of dedication and passion. Since 2004, she has been the heart and soul of Visions Therapy Center, working tirelessly to improve the lives of her patients as a Vision Therapist.
To those who know her, Tricia’s commitment is nothing short of extraordinary. “Tricia is the most caring, selfless person I know,” shared Alison Pulford, Visions’ Business Manager. Fellow Vision Therapist Brenda Robertson echoed these sentiments, adding, “Tricia is an amazing listener and has a very big heart.” Dr. Angela Gulbranson, another colleague, described her as having a “kind, gentle, comforting personality, which makes her a phenomenal therapist.”
BRINGING HOPE TO OTHERS.
Every day, Miller brings hope to her patients, helping them achieve goals they once thought were out of reach. Whether assisting children with learning
challenges or supporting adults recovering from brain injuries, Tricia’s impact is profound. Her efforts even extend to acquiring autographed items from professional athletes to inspire young patients to pursue their dreams.
Thanks to her unwavering dedication, children who once struggled to read are now excelling academically, and adults recovering from traumatic experiences are rediscovering the joys of life. “Tricia has an amazing ability to read and understand people to determine what they need,” said Dr. Ashley Gentrup. “She meets patients where they are, connects with them, and then motivates them to improve their situation.”
MILLER DRAWS INSPIRATION FROM HER PATIENTS.
When asked what motivates her to come to work every day, Miller is quick to say it’s her patients. “They are entrusting me to help them, so I show up for them,” she said. “I try to pour into the world a little more of what I think it needs. My cup is filled making others feel good.”
Her infectious demeanor is well documented at Visions. “No question . . . Tricia’s biggest strength is her compassion,” added Dr. Jennifer Hupke. “Her positive attitude makes a lasting impact on everyone around her. For that, we are truly grateful.”
For 20 years, Tricia Miller has been more than just a therapist. She has been a mentor, a friend, a role model, a beacon of hope, and a source of inspiration for all who have the privilege of working with her.
As far as her passion is concerned, there seems to be no sign of it fading anytime soon. “I love helping people,” said Miller. “I celebrate all types of successes and feel blessed to be a small part of my patients’ journeys. If I won the lottery tomorrow, I’d still be at work the next day. That’s how much I love it.”
Festival Festival
OCTOBER 24-26
“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek…” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue.
Photo by: cyorkphoto
40 Things to Do this Fall
Fall is the perfect time to get outside, spend quality time together as a family, and make lasting memories! Enjoy the cooler weather with a fall hike, take advantage of amazing family events, and dive into fall fun with these 40 ideas!
Family Gratitude Garland: Create a gratitude garland by writing what each family member is thankful for on colorful leaves, then string them together to display as a festive reminder of the
The Country Apple Orchard countryappleorchard.com
The Country Apple Orchard is 50 acres of fun for the whole family! With over 20 attractions, a petting zoo, concessions, live music, zip lines, apple cannons, and so much more, you’ll have hours of fun together! And don’t forget to take a tractor ride to pick apples and pumpkins!
Fall Baking Extravaganza: Spend a day baking fall treats like pumpkin pies, apple crisps, and spiced cookies, filling your home with the comforting aromas of autumn. Pick up some fall produce from a local farmers market.
Pumpkin Carving or Painting: Get creative with pumpkin carving, turning pumpkins into spooky, funny, or beautiful decorations for your home. For families with younger kids, try
Bundle up and head outdoors to gaze at the stars on a crisp fall night, taking advantage of the clear autumn skies. Check out a star constellation book from your local library
Homemade Caramel Apples: For a fun and tasty treat, make your own caramel apples at home. Dip the apples in caramel and add toppings like nuts, chocolate, or sprinkles.
Riverview Christmas Tree Farm’s Pumpkin Festival riverviewtreefarm.com
Explore a corn maze with twists, turns, and challenges suitable for all
Bring out your family and friends to enjoy a fall day on September 28-29, October 5-6, 12-13, 19-20. Enjoy activities for all ages like pumpkin picking, fall treats, farm animals, LIVE music, shopping and so much more! Weekday field trips are available. Book today!
Fall Camping: Enjoy the cooler weather and vibrant fall colors with a fall camping trip, complete with cozy campfires, hot cocoa, and the sounds of nature. Visit thehoodmagazine.com to read our camping guide and favorite camping spots near Sioux Falls.
Mazing Acres
Pumpkin Patch mazingacres.com
Discover Mazing Acres, where fun and adventure await! Pick your own pumpkins and flowers, enjoy delicious fall treats, and explore over 30 exciting attractions. With live music and endless photo ops, there’s something for everyone. Bring your friends and family for unforgettable fall memories at Mazing Acres Pumpkin Patch!
Jaycees
Feargrounds
Kid’s Day
jayceesfeargrounds.com
Families! Experience our haunted attraction with the lights on at Jaycees Feargrounds Kid’s Day! Collect candy from friendly volunteers in our decorated maze. See spooky decor without the scares. Fun activities outside too! Perfect for brave and cautious kids alike. Join us for Halloween excitement on October 13th, 2-4 PM!
Host an apple tasting at home, trying different varieties of apples to discover your family’s favorites for snacking, baking, or cider-making. Visit a local apple orchard or farmers market to get several different apple
Gather around a backyard bonfire with friends and family, roasting marshmallows, telling stories, and enjoying the warmth on a chilly evening.
Participate in a trunk-ortreat event, where kids can trick-or-treat from decorated car trunks in a safe, community Visit our online calendar in October for many different Truck-or-Treat options!
The Corn Maze at Jellystone Park has over 7 acres of twists, turns and dead ends carved into corn stalks that reach over your head! Whether you solve the maze under blue skies, with flashlights, or the light of the moon on a starry night, you will experience a fun adventure.
Capture the beauty of the season with a family photo shoot among the colorful leaves. Visit nearby State Parks for the perfect fall photoshoot location. Take a
and festivals.
Get the whole family involved for fall decorating! Collect fall foliage to make a beautiful wreath, carve pumpkins, or cre ate a fall leaf garland. Make sure to focus less on how beautiful the final project is and focus more on creating memories with your family.
Enjoy a crisp fall walk with your family! Walk around your community or enjoy a walk on the Bike Path by the river. Take the time to have intentional conversations with
Children’s Museum of South Dakota prairieplay.org
Play all day! A trip to the Children’s Museum of South Dakota offers interactive, hands-on exhibits and an experience you will never forget! From the hustle and bustle of KidStreet to the 2-story Cloud Climber, there’s something for everyone. Even Tyrannosaurus rexes!
Get creative with your family by making DIY Halloween costumes! Plan ahead so that you have the time to make a perfect
Outdoor Movie Night: Set up an outdoor movie night in your backyard with cozy blankets, popcorn, and a favorite fall film under the stars.
Cherry Rock Farms cherryrockfarms.com
SDGFP Outdoor Campus Sioux Falls gfp.sd.gov/toc-east/
The Outdoor Campus is your connection for FREE, fall fun! With a variety of handson classes in hunting, fishing, outdoor skills, and conservation, the Campus has a class that is right for your family. Visitors can also enjoy our butterfly garden, play scape, and over 2 miles of trails.
Cherry Rock Farms is your local one-stop farm for all your fall fun. We will have all the varieties of pumpkins in our you-pick patch, a corn maze, hayrides, goats, and more. Our market is stocked full of fresh veggies. Perfect stop for your family!
Homemade Soup Cooking: Warm up with homemade soup, using seasonal ingredients like squash, pumpkins, and root vegetables to create hearty and comforting dishes.
Fall Hiking: Take a hike to enjoy the crisp air and vibrant colors of the changing leaves. Visit us online for our list of favorite fall hiking locations near Sioux Falls!
Fall or Halloween 5K: Participate in a fall or Halloween 5K run! The crisp fall air is perfect for a fun 5K with your family.
Don’t toss those pumpkin “guts:” Scoop out the seeds and roast them for a healthy snack!
Visit a Farm: a local farm that offers hayrides, petting zoos, and other autumn activities. Make a day of it by packing a picnic with seasonal snacks and enjoy it in a park surrounded by autumn colors.
As the weather starts to cool, local birds are preparing for winter. Create simple bird feeders with seeds, pine cones, and peanut butter. This is both an educational and fun activity for children to
Spooky Science washingtonpavilion.org/event/spookyscience-2024
Kirby Science Discovery Center: October 26, 2024 | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. All-day event filled with activities for all ages! You will get to explore art and science while experi menting with oozing pumpkins, gummy worm dissections, and more! Costumes are encouraged but not required.
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks gfp.sd.gov
Explore South Dakota State Parks with a lodging stay! Palisades and Newton Hills State Parks, near Sioux Falls, offer accommodations with all the comforts of home. Great for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, baby showers, or a quiet getaway. Full kitchens, private bedrooms, bathrooms, and lots of indoor and outdoor space.
Fall Planting: Teach kids about gardening by planting fall flowers or bulbs that will bloom in
Fall-Themed Book Club: Choose a familyfriendly fall-themed book to read together and host a cozy reading night complete with hot
Game, Fish & Parks
SOUTH DAKOTA
Try Geocaching: Explore your area with a modern-day treasure hunt in the beautiful fall weather.
Plan a Weekend Getaway: Fall is the perfect time for a quick family vacation! Check out our online weekend trip guides to Omaha, Des Moines, the Twin Cities, and Kansas City!
siouxfalls.gov/guide
Find your fun all fall long. Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation has programs for children to senior citizens to keep you recreating in September and October. Explore!
There is an abundance of fall fun and activities in the area, but it’s hard to find them all in one spot. That is where the “Things to Do” section on the ‘hood thehoodmagazine.com
Halloween at
Health and Fitness as a Family Embracing
Embracing a healthy and active lifestyle (while keeping things age-appropriate for children) can transform families. Prioritizing health and fitness has a positive effect on both physical and mental health. In a world where busy schedules often take precedence, finding time to stay active and prioritize wellness can be challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Modeling a Positive Relationship with Health
Making health and fitness enjoyable for their children is a priority in Mollie’s household. She and her family love being active together. No matter the exercise, challenge, or activity, everyone wants to try it. Their children see them doing functional fitness movements (Crossfit), and there is always a scaled movement to accommodate their level. The whole family also loves simple activities together, like going for a walk or a bike ride.
Their family’s journey with health and fitness is also shaped by their third child, who has Down Syndrome. He loves being outdoors, dancing, swimming, and participating in anything his siblings are doing. There are times that he reminds the family that they need to slow down and be more patient. He reminds everyone that not everything is a race!
Balancing a Busy Life
Balancing a busy life while maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be challenging, but Mollie has found effective strategies. Being a working mom of four children has taught her that prioritizing herself is extremely important. Prioritizing her own well-being involves planning workouts, prepping meals in advance, and surrounding herself with supportive individuals. Mollie plans ahead with Ross about coordinating workout schedules, and they support and encourage healthy habits in each other.
As parents, Ross and Mollie have learned that everyone wins when they take care of themselves! l
For a Healthier, Happier Family 4 Tips
Keeping your family healthy and happy is all about simple daily habits. Here are some easy tips to get started:
Practice Mindfulness Daily
Adding mindfulness to your daily routine can boost family well-being. Just a few minutes of deep breathing or yoga each day can help reduce stress, improve focus, and create a calm atmosphere for everyone.
2. Plan for Outdoor Time
Spending time outdoors is essential for both physical and mental health. Make it a family habit to go for walks, bike rides, or hikes. Fresh air and exercise boost mood and energy and help everyone sleep better.
3. Talk Openly About Feelings
Encourage talking about feelings openly. Create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable sharing their emotions. This helps build strong family bonds and makes it easier to handle life’s ups and downs together.
4. Replace Sugary Beverages
Hydration is key to good health, so replace sugary drinks with water. Water keeps energy up, helps digestion, and supports overall health. Encourage your family to reach for water throughout the day and limit sugary beverages to promote better overall health.
Jellystone Park: FAMILY FUN AT ADVENTURE AWAITS
For over 30 years, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park has entertained families east of Sioux Falls. There have been many changes to the property over the years, but according to Owner Bruce Aljets, the keys to success have remained the same. “Providing an excellent experience still involves great activities, in a clean and well-kept environment,” Aljets said. “We’ve always focused on providing the best experience we can for our guests!”
The great news is that with their Corn Maze attraction, you don’t even have to stay the night to experience what the park has to offer. Open to the public, the Corn Maze at Jellystone Park offers over 7 acres of twists and turns to challenge guests and includes other great amenities, including free mini-golf, use of the Jumping Pillow, and multiple playgrounds in the park. They also have multiple add-ons to your corn maze experience. “We’ve got multiple packages set up for you to have a full day of entertainment that you can choose from.”
Tie-die t-shirts, paintable ceramics, and laser tag are some of the available attractions you can add to your corn maze ticket.
activities set up for select evenings at the corn maze this fall. Night-time laser tag, silent disco, and even campfire set up with s’more packages are available for purchase. Check our website or socials for more information.”
And don’t forget to get some delicious snacks from the on-site food truck. Food service will be available on-site during corn maze hours throughout the fall. “We’re really set up for a full day of fun out here,” Aljets said. “We’ve really developed the corn maze experience to offer the same great fun that our campground guests are used to. It’s a great opportunity for people in the
For over 30 years, the Jellystone Park in Sioux Falls has provided quality family entertainment and camping, and they show no signs of slowing down. According to Bruce, “We continue to invest in new amenities to bring into the park to maximize our guest’s experience. This includes entertaining new hard amenities, activity experiences, and new types of accommodation. We will always invest in the park to provide the best customer experience we can.”
Q+A with a Community Hero: Firefighter Dustin Luebke
October is Fire Safety Prevention Month, and it’s the perfect reminder each year of the importance of fire safety for our families and homes. We asked local Firefighter Dad Dustin Luebke to share a bit of his story and to give us his top tips for Fire Safety Prevention Month.
Q: PLEASE SHARE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY AND LIFE IN SIOUX FALLS:
DUSTIN: We are a blended family of six, and we love spending time together, especially on the boat or in the pool during the summer. All four of our kids—Natalie, Gretchen, Sami, and Luke—are actively involved in sports in the area and at Harrisburg Middle/High School. I moved to Sioux Falls almost 18 years ago when I started with Sioux Falls Fire Rescue. My wife, Megan, grew up here and then returned to Sioux Falls after college for work.
Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BE A FIREFIGHTER?
DUSTIN: My dad was a volunteer firefighter in Plainview, MN. When I was younger, I spent quite a bit of time at the station and was always interested in the calls. I knew I wanted to pursue a full-time career in firefighting.
Q: HOW HAS SERVING YOUR COMMUNITY IMPACTED YOU AND YOUR FAMILY?
DUSTIN: One of the most enjoyable parts about being a Sioux Falls Firefighter is helping the people in our community. There are so many different facets of our job that go above and beyond just firefighting. I am also part of our USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) team. My family is proud to say that their husband and dad is a firefighter. It reminds them that there is always someone who is there to help 24/7.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME COMMON REASONS FIRES START IN HOMES?
DUSTIN: Cooking and electrical are two of the biggest causes of home fires.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR FIRE SAFETY?
DUSTIN: Most importantly, smoke detectors should be working. Batteries should be replaced annually, and the detector itself should be replaced every 7-10 years. Families should also have an escape plan and meeting place outside, whether that’s a tree, mailbox, or neighbor’s home. If you see something unsafe in your home, don’t delay in making it safe. Go online to siouxfalls.gov/sffr for more fire safety information. Use the SFFR checklist and walk around your home to check for hazards. l
Visual Motor Therapy
Address
visual-motor
Bowel & Bladder Therapy
Sensory-based
Aquatic Therapy
Short Drives, Big Adventures: State Park Fall Getaways
NearSiouxFalls
Sponsored by SD Game, Fish and Parks
SiouxFalls
JAs the season changes, South Dakota State Parks transform into scenic destinations with vibrant fall foliage, perfect for outdoor adventures. Whether your family is seeking a new adventure to enjoy quality time outdoors together or you are simply looking for a quiet, family-friendly getaway to reconnect close to home, several state parks near Sioux Falls are ideal for a quick day trip or a fall retreat.
Within an hour of Sioux Falls, you’ll find multiple state parks offering miles of hiking trails, excellent fishing spots, playgrounds, archery ranges, kidfocused educational events, campsites, and cabins. At Newton Hills and Palisades State Parks, lodges are also available for reservation. These lodges feature full amenities and large indoor and outdoor gathering spaces. Plan your fall getaway with campfires, s’mores, stargazing, and so many fun things to do!
BIG SIOUX RECREATION Area
Big Sioux Recreation Area is known for its scenic views of the bluffs. It offers a quiet retreat close to Sioux Falls and hosts an annual Halloween Trails Trick-or -Treat hike each fall. The park is a favorite for many campers year-round and is a great spot for day trips.
STATE PARK
Palisades State Park recently expanded. The new King Campground offers additional campsites, cabins, and a picnic shelter. The park is known for its iconic hikes along Split Rock Creek, with beautiful views of the Sioux quartzite rock formations. Palisades State Park also features a lodge with its own private area within the park.
GOOD EARTH STATE PARK
Good Earth State Park is a mustsee for families. It offers regular programming, miles of hiking trails, and a museum. It’s a great park to spend the day having a picnic, exploring the visitor center, and enjoying the trails. In the fall, the park hosts an Indigenous Artists of the Prairie event!
HERMAN STATE PARK
Lake Herman State Park offers a variety of activities and beautiful fall colors. With numerous campsites overlooking the lake, it’s a great destination to discover new adventures while relaxing in the evening around the campsite, stargazing. The park provides checkout equipment, such as lawn games, offering an additional inexpensive opportunity for families.
Newton Hills State Park is known for its miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Wildlife watching is especially ideal in the fall. With multiple accommodation options, including cabins, lodges, and campsites, there are many ways to retreat, unplug, and reconnect.
LAKE VERMILLION RECREATION AREA
Lake Vermillion Recreation Area is conveniently located near the interstate, making it a popular camping destination. Several campsites and camping cabins overlook the lake, offering great views. During the fall, the campground continues to see many visitors, with kids often riding bikes and families spending time around the campfire in the evening cooking s’mores and stargazing.
UNION GROVE STATE PARK BEAVER CREEK NATURE AREA
Union Grove State Park is known for vibrant fall colors and a quiet fall camping getaway. Families can spend the day hiking, biking, and watching wildlife. In the evenings, the perfect park to stargaze while relaxing and reconnecting around a campfire.
Beaver Creek Nature Area is a quiet destination to visit during the day in the fall. The park is known for its history with interpretive signage and is a great place to enjoy a picnic.
For more information on these parks, and others across the State of South Dakota, visit: gfp.sd.gov/parks
LAKE
26 miles from Sioux Falls
miles from Sioux Falls
46 miles from Sioux Falls
13 miles from Sioux Falls
Ask the
Expert
Do you have a question for a Sioux Empire expert? ‘hood will be inviting area experts to weigh in and answer various questions from our readers.
Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment
ChrissieYoung Director
What are some red-flag phrases I should teach my children about while they are online?
Keeping your children safe online can be as simple as helping them recognize red-flag phrases when chatting with others.
• DM Me- Moving from comments to a private chat thread opens the prompter up to being able to ask more private questions.
• Send Me a Face Pic- Requests for pictures, in general, seem harmless, but once a picture is sent, you can not control what the other person does with it.
• Want to Make Some Money? Any variation of offering money, game gift cards, or other incentives should not be trusted.
CPCM is on a mission to end online child abuse. Learn more at sdcpcm.com.
4801 N Career Ave
Sioux Falls, SD 57107
sdcpcm.com
605-357-1392
David Parker Campus Director
How are the Outdoor Campus classes all free?
The Outdoor Campus is part of the Wildlife Division of the Game, Fish and Parks (GFP). Funding for this Division comes from: the sale of hunting/fishing licenses and federal dollars through the Pittman-Robertson Act and the Dingle-Johnson Act. The Wildlife Division does not receive any tax dollars.
Through these funding sources, along with donations from the public, the Outdoor Campus is able to offer FREE programming. GFP places a high priority on connecting the public to the outdoors, and the Outdoor Campus was created as a FREE resource to help fulfill that mission.
So when you take a Campus class, make sure to thank a hunter or angler for funding this resource!
4500 S Oxbow Ave
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
gfp.sd.gov/toc-east/ 605-362-2777
Co., a pediatric well visit is a comprehensive check-up designed to support your child’s overall health and development.
Our approach goes beyond routine care, emphasizing integrative medicine that seeks to understand and address the root causes of any health concerns. During the visit, our expert providers conduct a thorough physical examination, monitor growth and development, and discuss nutrition, sleep, and lifestyle factors. We also evaluate your child’s emotional and mental well-being, ensuring a holistic view of their health. Our goal is to empower families with knowledge and tools to support long-term wellness. We believe in personalized care that nurtures each child’s unique needs, fostering a foundation for lifelong health!
2908 E 26th St
Sioux Falls, SD 57103
flourishbirthco.com
605-271-4170
For children ages 16 or younger Sign
how it works
Special offers and discounts will be sent to your email 45 days prior to your child’s birthday to help plan their celebration. On the date of their birthday, coupons and/or offers from our partners will be emailed to you, redeemable for the specified time on each offer. Scan the QR code to join.
