McCrory Gardens and South Dakota Arboretum

McCrory Gardens and South Dakota Arboretum is a botanical garden and tree collection at South Dakota State University. The site features formal garden beds with flowers and pathways that wind through areas planted with various trees and shrubs.

The site was founded in the mid-1900s when the university established a place to study and grow plants. Over the decades, it grew into a major collection supporting research and teaching at the institution.

The gardens display plants native to the northern Great Plains and show how these species fit into the local landscape. Visitors can observe how these plants grow together in natural groupings throughout the site.

The grounds are open from dawn to dusk and feature paths that visitors can walk through easily. Entry is free and the site is straightforward to explore without any special preparation needed.

The site conducts trials to test which plants can survive the extreme temperature swings and harsh climate of the region. This research helps local gardeners and farmers choose plant varieties that will thrive in challenging conditions.

Location: South Dakota

GPS coordinates: 44.31290,-96.76990

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:42