Aberdeen, South Dakota, has two great South Dakota State Parks nearby!

It’s amazing how a few hours or even a few days spent out of doors can improve one’s life.

Fresh air, open water, wildlife, and trees help produce a sense of calm and grounding.

Within about 15 minutes of Aberdeen, there are two state recreation areas with swimming, hiking, fishing and even kayaking.

Richmond Lake State Recreation Area

This all-season recreation area is about 12 miles from downtown Aberdeen and offers hiking, biking, fishing, and boating in the summer, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing in the winter.

There are several miles of flatland trails for hiking, skiing, biking, and even horseback riding.

The park boasts 24 campsites and one camping cabin that sleeps four. Make reservations online through the South Dakota Game Fish & Parks Department website.

Mina Lake State Recreation Area

On the other side of the county line, Mina Lake State Recreation area lies 12 miles west of Aberdeen on U.S. Highway 12.

The park fits into the west side of the inside of the U-shaped, man-made lake and features hiking trails, boat launch access, a swimming beach, and a sand volleyball court.

There are 38 campsites, one camping cabin, and one lodge that sleeps eight people. Reservations can be made online through the South Dakota Game Fish & Parks Department website.