Hartford Beach State Park

Hartford Beach State Park is a natural area on the border between South Dakota and Minnesota along Big Stone Lake. The terrain features steep bluffs dotted with boulders, thick forests, and wooded shorelines that form a distinct landscape zone.

The area was originally home to American Indian peoples who left villages and burial sites still visible today. Later, French traders arrived and established connections with the peoples living there.

The lakeshore has long served as a meeting place for different peoples who lived and traded along its banks. The trails pass through ancient burial sites and show traces of those early inhabitants.

The park offers camping spots and cabins for overnight stays along with several marked trails of varying lengths. Those wanting to camp should know that conditions are best in summer and early fall.

The lake formed roughly 10,000 years ago from melting glacial ice that carved out a powerful river system and shaped the current valley. This glacial history still defines the appearance and form of the entire landscape today.

Location: South Dakota

Website: https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/hartford-beach-state-park

GPS coordinates: 44.40220,-96.67307

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:41