Union Grove State Park Travel Guide

Our Union Grove State Park guide covers practical planning for Union Grove State Park South Dakota — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground. This hidden gem, nestled along the Big Sioux River, offers a peaceful retreat with camping facilities, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and picnicking, all within a mature hardwood forest. We aim to provide you with all the essential details for a confident and specific trip, ensuring you avoid generic travel planning pitfalls.

Why Visit Union Grove State Park

Union Grove State Park South Dakota is a sanctuary for those seeking a tranquil escape into nature. We recommend it for its lush growth of native woods, a rarity in some parts of the prairie landscape, which provides a rich habitat for diverse wildlife and a serene backdrop for outdoor activities. The park's history, evolving from a county park established around 1936 to a state park in 1946, adds to its unique charm, showcasing decades of dedication to preserving its natural beauty.

Our team particularly appreciates Union Grove for its mature hardwood forest, offering ample shade and a sense of seclusion that can be hard to find at more bustling destinations. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect, whether you’re casting a line in Brule Creek, exploring the winding trails, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at your campsite. The park's commitment to providing a peaceful environment, coupled with its natural splendor, makes it a standout choice for a refreshing getaway in southeastern South Dakota.

Who It's Best For

Union Grove State Park caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, making it an ideal destination for several types of travelers. We find it particularly well-suited for:

• **Campers:** With 25 campsites, including 4 dedicated horse campsites, it’s perfect for those who enjoy traditional tent or RV camping in a quiet, shaded setting. The park also offers amenities like modern restrooms, showers (seasonally), and electrical hookups at some sites.
• **Hikers and Trail Users:** Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous trek, the park's multi-use trails and dedicated hiking paths provide ample opportunity to explore the forested hills and Brule Creek.
• **Birdwatchers and Wildlife Enthusiasts:** The mature hardwood forest and diverse plant life attract a wide array of bird species, including cardinals, orioles, grosbeaks, warblers, and wild turkeys. Deer, beavers, and other small animals are also frequently spotted.
• **Anglers:** Brule Creek is a popular fishing spot, offering several access points for those looking to cast a line.
• **Families with Kids:** The park features a playground and TRACK Trails, which are designed to engage children with nature through self-guided adventures.
• **Equestrian Campers:** The dedicated horse campsites and multi-use trails make Union Grove an excellent base for a weekend of riding with your horses.

If you're looking for a bustling resort experience or extensive nightlife, this might not be your primary destination. However, for those seeking a serene, nature-focused retreat with solid camping and trail opportunities, Union Grove State Park is an excellent choice.

Getting There & Parking

Understanding how to get to Union Grove State Park is straightforward, as it's conveniently located in southeastern South Dakota. The park is situated approximately 11 miles south of Beresford, just off I-29, at Exit 38. This makes it an accessible stop for road-trippers traveling through the region. For precise navigation, especially if relying on GPS, we recommend using the park's coordinates: Latitude 42.92024, Longitude -96.78532.

Once you arrive, parking at Union Grove State Park is available, though it can be limited. There is a small lot located near the scenic overview area and one of the picnic shelters. A state park entrance license is required for all motorized vehicles entering designated South Dakota state parks, recreation areas, and lakeside use areas. For 2026, a daily park license costs $10 per vehicle for residents and $15 per vehicle for non-residents. An annual resident license is $40 for one vehicle or $60 for two, while a non-resident annual license is $60 for one vehicle or $90 for two. These licenses can be purchased online at campsd.com, at local state park offices, or by calling 1-800-710-2267. Camping fees are separate and do not cover the entrance license.

The internal roads within the park are paved, generally presenting few hazards, but exercise caution, especially during winter visits. For those planning to camp, some tent sites may require parking on the road due to limited pull-off space.

Top Things to Do

When planning your visit, you'll find plenty of things to do at Union Grove State Park, offering a blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Our team highlights the following activities:

• **Hiking and Trail Exploration:** The park boasts several miles of trails. The Brule Bottom hiking trail is a moderate 1.2-mile loop, reserved for foot traffic only, offering views of Brule Creek and leading to picnic areas and scenic overlooks. For those seeking longer excursions or multi-sport options, the Mosey Meadow Multi-Use Trail is a 4.3-mile loop suitable for mountain biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, in addition to hiking. These trails wind through the park's dense hardwood forest, providing a captivating journey through South Dakota's natural landscape.
• **Camping:** Union Grove State Park is a prime spot for camping, with 25 campsites, including 4 designated for horses. Options include electrical and non-electrical sites, accommodating both tents and RVs up to 85 feet. The well-shaded campsites offer a quiet base for your adventures. Modern restrooms with showers are available seasonally, while vault toilets are open year-round. Reservations are recommended due to the limited number of sites.
• **Fishing in Brule Creek:** Brule Creek is a popular fishing spot in southeastern South Dakota, with several access points within the park. It's a peaceful way to spend an afternoon surrounded by nature.
• **Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing:** The rich glacial soils support a lush growth of native woods, attracting a wide variety of birds such as cardinals, orioles, grosbeaks, warblers, red-winged blackbirds, blue jays, pheasants, and wild turkeys. Keep an eye out for deer, beavers, and other small mammals that call the park home.
• **Picnicking:** Numerous shaded picnic areas and group picnic shelters are available, perfect for an al fresco meal amidst the park's natural beauty.
• **Geocaching:** For those who enjoy a modern-day treasure hunt, a few geocaches are concealed throughout the park, adding an interactive element to your visit.
• **Horseback Riding:** With dedicated horse campsites and multi-use trails, Union Grove State Park is an excellent destination for equestrian enthusiasts. The 4.3-mile multi-use trail provides ample room for riding.

These things to do at Union Grove State Park ensure that every visitor can find an activity to enjoy, whether seeking active adventure or quiet contemplation.

Best Time to Visit

Union Grove State Park is open year-round, offering distinct experiences across the seasons. However, our team recommends visiting from **late spring through early fall (May–September)** for the most comfortable weather and full access to amenities.

• **Spring (March-May):** This is an excellent time to witness the park "come alive" with wildflowers and migrating songbirds. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s in April and into the 60s and 70s by May, making for comfortable hiking. Full amenities, including showers and flush toilets, typically become available in late spring.
• **Summer (June-August):** Summer offers the warmest temperatures (58–85°F) and full availability of all park facilities. The dense forest provides welcome shade, making it pleasant for hiking, picnicking, and camping. Weekends can be busier, so reservations are advised.
• **Fall (September-November):** As temperatures cool, the park's hardwood forest transforms with vibrant autumn colors, creating a scenic backdrop for trails and wildlife viewing. It's generally quieter than summer, offering a more peaceful experience. Modern water systems and facilities typically close down around October 1st.
• **Winter (December-February):** For hardy adventurers, winter provides opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking when snow conditions permit. While vault toilets remain open year-round, showers, flush toilets, and other water systems may be closed between October 1st and April 30th. Winter camping is a more rustic experience, but can be very peaceful.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Union Grove State Park depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for weather conditions. For full amenities and warmer weather, aim for late spring to early fall. For solitude and winter sports, embrace the colder months.

Where to Stay Nearby

While Union Grove State Park offers excellent camping facilities, for those seeking more traditional Union Grove State Park lodging options, you'll need to look to nearby communities. The closest town with amenities is Beresford, located about 11 miles north of the park.

Our team recommends considering the following for Union Grove State Park lodging:

• **Beresford, SD:** As the nearest town, Beresford provides basic lodging options, including motels and potentially local bed and breakfasts. It also offers conveniences like restaurants and places to refuel and restock supplies. While specific hotel names aren't consistently highlighted in park-related searches, a quick search for "hotels in Beresford, SD" will yield current options.
• **Vermillion, SD:** Approximately 22 miles from the park, Vermillion is a larger community that will likely offer a broader selection of hotels, restaurants, and services.
• **Sioux Falls, SD:** For the widest range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to more upscale options, Sioux Falls is about 50-60 miles north of the park. While a longer drive, it's a major city with extensive amenities and attractions, including Falls Park.
• **RV Parks and Campgrounds outside the park:** If Union Grove's campground is full or you prefer different amenities, there are other RV parks and campgrounds in the surrounding area, such as Windmill Campground in Beresford or Newton Hills State Park (23 miles away).

Remember that for any accommodations outside the park, you will still need a state park entrance license to access Union Grove State Park.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you make the most of your visit to Union Grove State Park South Dakota, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary, focusing on the park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Day 1: Arrival, Trails & Tranquility

• **Morning (Arrival & Setup):** Arrive at Union Grove State Park. If you have camping reservations, proceed to your campsite and set up your tent or RV. If you're staying nearby, head to the park entrance and purchase your daily or annual park entrance license.
• **Late Morning (Brule Bottom Hike):** Start your exploration with the Brule Bottom hiking trail. This 1.2-mile loop is foot-traffic only and offers a moderate walk through the forested hills alongside Brule Creek, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy scenic overlooks.
• **Lunch (Riverside Picnic):** Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park's shaded picnic areas near Brule Creek. This is a perfect way to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
• **Afternoon (Wildlife & Birdwatching):** Spend the afternoon quietly observing the park's abundant wildlife. The mature hardwood forest is a hotspot for birdwatching, with many species like cardinals, orioles, and wild turkeys. Keep an eye out for deer and beavers too. Consider bringing binoculars for a closer look.
• **Evening (Campsite Relaxation & Stargazing):** Return to your campsite. Prepare a campfire (where permitted) and enjoy dinner. As night falls, take advantage of the park's dark skies for some stargazing away from city lights.

Day 2: Multi-Use Adventures & Departure

• **Morning (Multi-Use Trail Adventure):** After breakfast, hit the Mosey Meadow Multi-Use Trail. This 4.3-mile loop is ideal for a longer hike, mountain biking, or even a horseback ride if you've brought your equine companion. The trail offers varied terrain and further immersion into the park's natural landscape.
• **Late Morning (Fishing or Geocaching):** For anglers, spend some time fishing in Brule Creek, trying your luck for local catches. Alternatively, engage in a geocaching hunt, seeking out hidden treasures scattered throughout the park, which adds a fun, interactive element to your visit.
• **Lunch (Beresford Exploration):** Head into the nearby town of Beresford for lunch. Explore local eateries and perhaps pick up some souvenirs or supplies. Beresford offers a small-town charm and a chance to experience the local community.
• **Afternoon (Playground & Departure):** If traveling with children, let them enjoy the playground facilities at the campground. Before heading home, take one last short walk or revisit a favorite spot in the park. Pack up your campsite and depart from Union Grove State Park, carrying memories of its peaceful beauty.

This itinerary is flexible and can be adapted based on your interests and the season of your visit. Remember to check park conditions and specific hours or closures before your trip, especially if visiting during the off-season. For more South Dakota adventures, consider exploring the Best Places in South Dakota, including Badlands National Park, Bear Butte State Park, or Black Hills National Forest.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Our team confidently asserts that Union Grove State Park is worth visiting, especially for travelers seeking a peaceful, nature-focused retreat in southeastern South Dakota. It stands out as a "hidden treasure" with its lush, mature hardwood forest, a unique feature amidst the broader prairie landscape.

For those who appreciate quiet camping, engaging hiking and multi-use trails, excellent birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to fish in Brule Creek, Union Grove State Park delivers. The park offers a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle, providing a serene environment where you can reconnect with nature. While it may not boast the dramatic landscapes of some of South Dakota's more famous national parks, its charm lies in its accessibility, tranquility, and rich biodiversity. We particularly recommend it for families, campers, hikers, and equestrian enthusiasts looking for a well-maintained, welcoming state park experience. Its year-round accessibility, even if some amenities are seasonal, ensures that there's always something to appreciate.

How to Get There

For travelers wondering how to get to Union Grove State Park, our team can confirm its convenient location in Union County, South Dakota. The park is situated approximately 11 miles south of Beresford, directly accessible from Interstate 29 at Exit 38. This makes it an easy stop for those driving through the region. The address for direct navigation is 30828 471st Avenue, Beresford, SD 57004.

If you're coming from a major city:

• **From Sioux Falls, South Dakota:** Head south on I-29 for approximately 50-60 miles until you reach Exit 38. The drive is typically under an hour.
• **From Sioux City, Iowa:** Travel north on I-29 for about 45-50 miles to Exit 38. This drive also takes less than an hour.
• **From Omaha, Nebraska:** Drive north on I-29 for roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, exiting at Exit 38.

Once you exit I-29, follow the local road signage to Union Grove State Park. The internal park roads are paved and generally well-maintained. As mentioned previously, a state park entrance license is required upon entry. For a broader perspective on planning your journey across the country, consult our USA Road Trip Planner.

FAQ

Union Grove State Park camping

Union Grove State Park offers 25 campsites, including 4 dedicated horse campsites, accommodating both tents and RVs up to 85 feet. Some sites provide electrical hookups (20, 30, and 50-amp service), while non-electrical tent-only sites are also available. For 2026, electrical campsites cost $30 per night, and non-electrical tent-only sites are $16 per night. Modern restrooms with flush toilets and showers are available seasonally (typically late spring through early fall), while vault toilets remain open year-round. A dump station and drinking water are also provided. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made online or by calling 1-800-710-2267. Pets are welcome in the campground.

Things to do in Beresford

Beresford, South Dakota, the nearest town to Union Grove State Park, offers a variety of local attractions and activities. Our team suggests exploring Travel South Dakota for the most current local events. You can visit The Bridges at Beresford Golf Course and Community Center, enjoy Bulow Park, or check out the Windmill Campground. For those interested in local events, Beresford hosts various community gatherings, including summer social nights and other seasonal festivals. It's a good spot to refuel, grab a meal, or pick up any forgotten supplies.

Union Grove State Park with kids

Union Grove State Park is a fantastic destination for families with kids. The park features a playground within the campground, providing a dedicated space for children to play. The Brule Bottom hiking trail is a moderate 1.2-mile loop that is part of the TRACK Trail program, designed to engage children with nature through self-guided adventures and educational brochures. The multi-use trails offer opportunities for family hikes, and the abundant wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species, provides exciting viewing opportunities for young explorers. Picnicking and fishing in Brule Creek are also family-friendly activities.

Best hotels near Union Grove State Park

Since Union Grove State Park primarily offers camping, the "best hotels" would be found in nearby towns. Our team recommends looking for accommodations in Beresford, which is about 11 miles away and offers basic motel options. For a wider selection of hotels and amenities, Vermillion (approximately 22 miles) or Sioux Falls (50-60 miles away) would be your best bet. While specific hotel recommendations are outside the scope of park information, searching for hotels in these towns will provide current availability and pricing. Remember to factor in travel time to and from the park when choosing your lodging.

Union Grove State Park tips

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Union Grove State Park, our team offers these essential tips:

• **Book Camping in Advance:** With only 25 campsites, including 4 for horses, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
• **Check Seasonal Amenity Closures:** Showers, flush toilets, and potable water systems may be closed between October 1st and April 30th. Vault toilets remain open year-round. Contact the park directly for current status.
• **Purchase Park Entrance License:** A daily or annual state park entrance license is required for all vehicles. This is separate from camping fees.
• **Bring Insect Repellent:** The wooded environment, especially near Brule Creek, can attract insects, particularly during warmer months.
• **Stay on Designated Trails:** This helps protect the natural environment and ensures your safety, especially during hunting season (Oct 1 - April 30), when caution is advised.
• **Pack for All Weather:** South Dakota weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for temperature changes, even within a single day.
• **Local Firewood:** To prevent the spread of forest pests, buy firewood locally near the park.
• **Water Availability:** If camping in the off-season, confirm water hydrant availability with the park.

Where to stay near Union Grove State Park

When considering where to stay near Union Grove State Park, your primary options beyond the park's own campground will be in nearby towns. Our team advises looking at Beresford, South Dakota, which is the closest community and offers some basic lodging and services. For a wider selection of hotels, restaurants, and amenities, Vermillion (approximately 22 miles away) or Sioux Falls (50-60 miles away) are larger cities that provide more choices. Additionally, other state parks in the region, such as Newton Hills State Park, may offer alternative camping or cabin options if you're open to exploring further.

Union Grove State Park, with its rich hardwood forest and peaceful ambiance, offers a refreshing escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Whether you're pitching a tent, exploring the multi-use trails, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of Brule Creek, this South Dakota gem provides a memorable outdoor experience. We encourage you to plan your visit, embrace the tranquility, and discover the natural wonders of Union Grove State Park.

Last updated: 2026-07-15 by the Roam States team.