The 2026 South Dakota State Park Entrance license is now available for purchase. The 2026 entrance sticker shares a glimpse back in history, which will be the theme for the 2026 year.
The 2026 license is valid from October 1, 2025, through May 23, 2027. The annual park entrance license provides entry throughout this entire time period into all South Dakota state parks, recreation areas, and lakeside use areas. Camping and other accommodation fees still apply.
The cost for the resident annual state park entrance license is $40 for one or $60 for two.
The cost for the nonresident annual state park entrance license is $60 for one or $90 for two.
“South Dakota State Parks have been connecting people to the outdoors for generations, offering places where families and friends can create lasting memories,” said Jeff VanMeeteren, South Dakota State Parks Director in a press release. “We have a variety of overnight options for everyone with campsites, camping cabins, and modern lodging throughout the year.”
On July 4, 2026 the United States of America will celebrate its 250th birthday, and the state park theme will align with other national, state, and local organizations celebrating this milestone. The theme will highlight the historical nature of the parks themselves, but also the stories of individuals who use them and the personal history the parks create.
The 2026 season will be a way to look back at our first memories outdoors and make new ones as well. The State Park Entrance license makes a perfect gift for the holidays, and now is the time to purchase so you’re ready to enjoy another great year.
Purchase your park entrance license through Go Outdoors South Dakota or at your local park.
State Park Entrance License Fast Facts
- Valid October 1, 2025 through May 23, 2027
- Resident Cost: $40 for one, $60 for two
- Nonresident Cost: $60 for one, $90 for two
- Provides entry into over 60 parks and recreation areas
- Not valid for National Parks or attractions such as Badlands, Wind Cave, Mount Rushmore, or Crazy Horse
- Purchase Online at Go Outdoors South Dakota
- Purchase In-Person at Local State Parks
Common Questions Regarding the Park Entrance License
Is the 2025 Park Entrance License still valid?
Yes, the 2025 South Dakota Park Entrance license will remain valid until May 16, 2026. Individuals can still enjoy complete access to all state parks and recreation areas with their current pass until this date.
What specifies if I need a resident or nonresident park entrance license?
The deciding factor is what your license plate on your vehicle says. If you have South Dakota plates, you purchase the resident park entrance license. If you have plates from a state other than South Dakota, you will purchase the nonresident park entrance license.
Can I still purchase a second park entrance license for half price?
Yes, you can choose to purchase the “double” option, which would provide the second park entrance license at half price of the first. This applies to both the resident and nonresident park entrance license options.
I’m a resident, why do I only see the nonresident park entrance license option in Go Outdoors South Dakota?
The default option is the nonresident license option for “guest” checkouts. To see the resident options, simply login to your account and the options will update automatically based on your residency.
What areas are my park entrance license valid for?
The state park entrance license is valid for all state parks, recreation areas, and lakeside use areas across South Dakota. You can view all of these locations on the GFP Find a State Park map!
(Image Courtesy South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks)
