The Missouri River dominates the landscape in South Dakota; it’s the largest and longest river in the state. Other major South Dakota rivers include the Cheyenne, James, Big Sioux, and White rivers. The rivers in South Dakota give kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders endless opportunities for adventure.
Two segments of the Missouri River are designated as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System—from the Fort Randall Dam downstream to the backwaters of Lewis and Clark Lake and from Gavins Point Dam downstream to Ponca State Park. These are among the last free-flowing segments of the once “Mighty Mo” and still exhibit the river’s dynamic character in its islands, bars, chutes, and snags. With some preparation, research, and the right skills, paddling this river is a rewarding challenge that adds an impressive notch to any paddler’s belt.
South Dakota has approximately 9,513 miles of river, of which 93 miles are designated as wild and scenic—less than 1% of the state’s river miles.
Rivers In South Dakota