South Dakota State Parks

Whether you're sunning and sailing at Angostura Reservoir or nestled in a tent at shady Hartford Beach, South Dakota's state parks and recreation areas offer beautiful scenery and memory-making outdoor fun. Photographer Christian Begeman explores Little Moreau, Shadehill and other South Dakota State Parks.

Christian Begeman grew up in Isabel and now lives in Sioux Falls. When he's not working at Midcontinent Communications he is often on the road photographing our prettiest spots around the state.

See more of Christian's photography in his South Dakota Magazine online column or on his photo blog.

The Enchanting Black Hills

June 29, 2016
Photographing magic as artist in residence.

Custer's Four Seasons

October 15, 2012
South Dakota's first and biggest state park is full of surprises all year round.

Roughlock Falls Nature Area in autumn s full array. Click to enlarge photos.

Spellbinding Spearfish Canyon

October 1, 2012
Every South Dakotan should experience autumn's beauty at this "must see" destination. 

Elusive Monarchs

September 17, 2012
Spooky, spectacular Sica Hollow is visually stunning even when you miss the annual butterfly migration.

The Pleasure's in the Details

September 4, 2012
Nature's rich colors and textures delight visitors to Lake Alvin and the new Blood Run Nature Area.

Magic Moments at Little Moreau

August 20, 2012
Special summer memories from the shortgrass hills of Dewey County.

Rediscovering an Old Friend

August 6, 2012
Hartford Beach State Park, located along the shore of Big Stone Lake, is a peaceful haven for hikers and campers.

Water skiing, as seen from the eastern bluffs of Snake Creek Recreation Area. Click to enlarge photos.

Keeping Cool in a Great Lake

July 23, 2012
Snake Creek and Buryanek Recreation Areas are perfect spots for cooling off on hot summer days.

Moonrise above Bear Butte. Click to enlarge photos.

The Rugged Spirituality of Bear Butte

July 9, 2012
A deeply spiritual spot beckons travelers to Meade County with its rough beauty and vibrant history.

The Hidden Beauty of Lake Hiddenwood

June 25, 2012
The Hiddenwood Creek Valley of north central South Dakota is home to a lushly forested gem of a state park.

Metalsmithing is hot work. Click to enlarge photos.

A Trip Back in Time

June 11, 2012
Fort Sisseton Historical Festival brings the Dakota Territory of the 1860s back to life.

The North Fork of Shadehill Reservoir. Click to enlarge photos.

Grand River Grasslands

May 28, 2012
It doesn’t get much better than spending a late May weekend drinking in the fresh air and wide open spaces.

Sunset over a bend in the Missouri River, which borders the park.

Into the Woods

May 14, 2012
The woods and waters of Union County's Adams Homestead attract a rich array of wildlife.

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