Explore the 5 Best Pumpkin Patches in South Dakota For a Great Fall Adventure

South Dakota comes alive every fall. The summer crowds die down, and all of the tree-lined autumn trails and sidewalks are bursting with fall colors. The state also boasts many fall festivals and community events, and the mild weather makes this time of year perfect for outdoor gatherings, enjoying nature and the company of others. What better way to spend this season than by visiting a family farm and pumpkin patch? Check out these five best pumpkin patches in South Dakota for a fun autumn adventure and learn about all of their activities.

1. Spearfish Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch

For 11 years, the folks at Spearfish Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch have delivered fall fun to West-central South Dakota in the community of Spearfish. Families of multiple generations make this attraction part of their annual autumn festivities. They are open every year between early September to the last day in October. You can pick pumpkins straight off the vine and get lost in the giant maze. There is also a haunted maze event several times throughout the season. Once you’re done picking out your pumpkin, head over to the other activities, including a hay jump, tire climb, duck race, barrel train, and corn box. Additionally, a snack truck offers food and refreshments. Make sure you pick up some fresh apple cider and hot cocoa before you leave!  

2. Riverview Christmas Tree Farm and Pumpkin Festival

Located in Canton in Southeast South Dakota, the Riverview Christmas Tree Farm, known for its glorious evergreens, also has an annual fall festival. While you can pick up some pre-picked pumpkins for an easy no-fuss pumpkin experience, you can also take a hayride to the patch and pick out your own! The patch includes more than 30 varieties of gourds and pumpkins. When you’re done picking the best one, you can check out the farm’s other activities, including pumpkin slingshots, giant Checkers, pumpkin painting stations, and big-screen TVs with plenty of football. Children will have fun in the kid’s area, where they will find bouncy inflatables, a tire mountain, slides, a sandbox, and pumpkin carriage rides. During select times, you will find live country music, which you can enjoy as you peruse the beer and wine garden, concession stands, and gift shop. 

3. Mazing Acres Pumpkin Patch

The Mazing Acres Pumpkin Patch is an annual tradition for families near Yankton, South Dakota in the southeastern part of the state near the Nebraska border. This festival features a family-friendly atmosphere with a large selection of pumpkins and plenty of activities for people of all ages. With more than 30 attractions, there is much more than just pumpkins at Mazing Ares. Visitors will find unique photo ops, farm animals, a corn maze, a giant slide, hayrides, a barrel train, inflatable bounces, a trike track, and an obstacle course. It is also an excellent destination for food and drinks! Check out their sweet apple cider slushies, craft beer, wine, popcorn, and more treats. 

4. Cherry Rock Farms

Owned and operated since 1925 in Brandon, South Dakota, Chery Rock Farms is nestled along the beautiful Split Rock River, where the area produces fertile soil perfect for growing vegetables and other produce, like pumpkins. Cherry Rock Farms is a family-operated farm that offers the perfect low-frills and uncrowded pumpkin patch experience. You will find a pumpkin patch in a wide open field, a corn maze, and occasional food trucks. They also make their own food and other products, like homemade cupcakes, cinnamon peanut butter, and fresh honey. Check out Cherry Rock Farms throughout the year for affordable farm-fresh produce. 

5. Big Stone Pumpkin Patch

Located in Big Stone City in Northeast South Dakota, the Big Stone Pumpkin Patch is a fall family favorite for residents in the area. This family-run attraction is open from late September to late October on Saturdays and Sundays. Along with pre-picked pumpkins, gourds, Indian corn, and straw bales, you can find a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Once you’ve finished picking your perfect pumpkin, you can check out the hayrides, corn maze, corn dig, barrel train rides, and climbing bales. There is also a huge, decorated barn that you can rent out for special events, like weddings. Don’t forget to pick out some delicious mini donuts and popcorn before you leave!

A Recap of the 5 Best Pumpkin Patches in South Dakota

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