I spend plenty of time bragging about the beauty of the mountain peaks, streams and lakes in the Black Hills. But there is a nearby site that is unique for different qualities. This would be the Buffalo Gap National Grassland just outside of Wall.

Grasslands are areas that primarily consist of prairie. The Buffalo Gap National Grassland is nearly 600,000 acres. You might be wondering what someone would do in 600,000 acres of prairie. Well, they’re plenty of things.

Rockhounding is a pretty popular activity in the grasslands. In case you’re new to the term, this is the collecting of rocks and minerals, of which there are quite abundance in the grassland. You’ll find Fairburn Agates (the South Dakota state gem), Banded Jasper, Rose Quartz, etc. etc. Rockhounding is allowed almost everywhere on the grassland, just try not to cross into private property. Don’t be surprised to catch a glimpse of some wildlife, too.  The grassland is home to mules, jackrabbits, pronghorns, and if you’re lucky, you may even see an endangered Black-footed Ferret.

The grassland is also a great site for hunting and fishing.  All of the area is open, as long as South Dakota hunting rules and regulations are followed.  Deer and antelope roam the grasslands, along with smaller game like coyotes and prairie dogs. Also, there are many stock ponds for fishing. Other types of recreation available at the grassland include hiking, biking, horseback riding or ATVing.  Keep in mind, the area near Indian Creek is closed to ATVs. If you enjoy camping, the entire grassland is open to use, along with the French Creek Campgrounds just outside of Fairburn.

The Buffalo Gap Grassland is open 24 hours a day and is free to the public. A visitor information center is also located in Wall