I had planned to hike here but it was raining, but i drove through anyway and it was beautiful. I wish i could have hiked. I might come back to town just to hike here. There are several lookouts with beautiful views of the woods and the city. It seemed a little tricky to get there (and my gps got confused) but I did get there and I am glad i did. It's a beautiful drive, I think it would be a great hike.
Nice winding roads and trails through out the park, being free helped out too, on the highest overlook turnout was beautiful views of South Dakota and the park, we counted at least 20 eagles and hawks soaring above on the thermals, which was a surprise since it was so cold and windy, but with the abundance of rabbits and squirrels we seen in the area might be why they were still here in the winter, a must stop if you are a hiker or bird watcher.
We drove through the park to see as much as possible and stopped at different areas. There were lots of hiking trails with stairs and overlooks. The views were absolutely gorgeous with green foliage all around. Would love to spend a day here and have a picnic!
My daughter and I visited here on July 4. There were plenty of picnickers, but we weren't in anyone's way, and vice versa. We hiked through the woods and drove through the park. The hiking was pleasant, fun trails without too much physical challenge. It was a very hot day, but we were cool under all the tree cover!
Beautiful state park with lots of trees and hills. It is breath taking when then leaves are changing color!
You can get some really nice views from here, amazing scenery! Would love to come back and camp here!
I often drive through Stone Park on my way from my friend's house back to mine. It's always quiet and peaceful with different sights to see depending on the season. My favorite season is fall to catch the many colors of the changing leaves and grasses. Go up on one of the ridges and look out over the surrounding areas...so pretty. For an added bonus, catch a sunset. If you are into wildlife, you will likely experience wild turkeys on the walking trails.The ranger does a nice job of keeping things safe. I once visited friends who were camping and was asked to take off just at the specified closing time. While I wouldn't be considered a thug-type waiting around to cause trouble, it was nice to know he watches out for that kind of activity. Stone Park is a good spot for a picnic but I'd recommend bug spray. If you are an avid picnic person, you already knew that. Because I live locally, I often choose Stone Park as a place to just go a relax when I need to escape. There are several nice spots to sit and read. I am into photography and many of my best shots were taken in the park.
Was only able to drive around Stone park as the weather was not great with rain. Looks like it has some nice trails to hike. Maybe next time I visit I can do some hiking.
We stayed at the campground for one night with our small RV. It was a bit of chore to get through since our on-line map app ended the route a mile or so away from the entrance and we had to circle back around quite a bit to get to the main entrance of the park. the park looks really nice although our main objective was to get to our spot for the evening before venturing on to South Dakota the next day. With a late booking, this was about the only place we found that we could camp for the night. It provided water and electricity which was all we needed for the night. Unfortunately, it rained during the day which made the spot pretty muddy (I felt worse for all the tent campers having to trudge around in the muck). It was a serviceable location and I think a great spot for campers during more dry conditions.
The park is not open to vehicles, no park employees are on staff but you can park at an entrance & hike. It offers wooded trails with beautiful scenic lookouts. It's quiet, you'll most likely see a deer or squirrel before you see another person.