South Dakota may be known for its sweeping landscapes and iconic landmarks, but it also harbors eerie mysteries steeped in history that will send shivers down your spine. This fall, South Dakota invites thrill-seekers and curious adventurers from Canada to immerse themselves in its rich lore and paranormal experiences, promising an unforgettable journey through its haunted historic locations.
From ghost towns submerged in lakes to haunted forts and ancient cursed lands, South Dakota’s spooky destinations are ready to welcome those brave enough to explore over Halloween and all year-round. Whether you’re fascinated by ghostly legends or simply looking for an atmospheric adventure, these sites offer the perfect blend of history and horror for visitors of all ages.
Haunted Locations You Can’t Miss
- Haunted Town of Deadwood
For the ultimate spooky experience, head to Deadwood, a Wild West town where history and hauntings go hand in hand. Explore haunted hotels like the Bullock and Fairmont, where spirits are said to still roam. Take a ghost tour and step back into the dark side of Deadwood’s past, where gunfights, notorious outlaws, and lingering apparitions tell the town’s eerie tales. There’s even a historic brothel, which stopped operations in 1980, and today provides a flash back to the colorful 104-year past of how the world’s oldest profession impacted the community. - Mount Moriah Cemetery, Deadwood
Visit the resting place of Wild West legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, where some say these legendary figures aren’t quite at peace. At night, shadows move among the tombstones, and unexplained phenomena have been reported by both staff and visitors. - Sica Hollow State Park
Named “Sica” by Native Americans, meaning “evil,” this eerie park is steeped in legends. The streams run “blood red” from iron deposits, and phosphorous stumps glow at night, leaving early explorers unsettled. It’s no wonder Sica Hollow is considered one of the most haunted places in South Dakota. - Fort Sisseton State Historical Park
Step into history and the supernatural at Fort Sisseton, where mysterious lights, footsteps, and the feeling of being watched are frequently reported. This 1864 fort offers a chilling encounter with the past, where the spirits of previous occupants might still linger. - LaFramboise Island Nature Area
Peaceful by day, eerie by night, this Missouri River island is believed to have housed spirits since the days of Lewis and Clark. Take a walk along its haunted paths for a chilling nature experience. - Badlands National Park’s Coffin Butte
Coffin Butte is not just an eerie formation but the site of mysterious discoveries, including an unidentified skeleton found by a Boy Scout group in 1936. Whether it’s a long-lost miner or Native American, the questions surrounding this discovery remain unsolved. - Devil’s Gulch, Split Rock Park
South Dakota’s wild legends are alive at Devil’s Gulch, where outlaws and spirits are said to roam. Visit the site where Jesse James made his famous escape and keep an eye out for the Dark One himself, who, according to local lore, may wander these grounds. - Spirit Mound
Long regarded as a place of supernatural significance by the Native Americans, Spirit Mound was rumored to be inhabited by 18-inch humanoid monsters with deadly arrows. While no such beings have been spotted since, visitors today still report eerie sounds echoing through the area.
With endless opportunities to experience the supernatural, South Dakota is ready to thrill Canadian visitors this season. Book a ghost tour, stay in a haunted hotel, or simply wander the historic streets and parks to experience the chills for yourself.
