Fee: No entrance fee required.
About this park
Big Stone Island Nature Area is a 100-acre island refuge in Big Stone Lake that shelters songbirds, waterfowl and shore birds. It can be reached only by boat or canoe. In 1823, an expedition led by Major Stephen Long and geologist William Keating met an American Indian village on this rocky island. During the 1800s and early 1900s, resort hotels operated in the area. There are no maintained trails. Visitors can fish, paddle and watch wildlife, and the nature area is open year-round with no entrance fee. The coordinates are the island; the access point is about four miles north of Big Stone City.
Big Stone Island Nature Area FAQ
Where is Big Stone Island Nature Area located?
Big Stone Island Nature Area is in Big Stone City, South Dakota, at SD Highway 109, Rearing Ponds Access Area. GPS coordinates: 45.34723, -96.48795. Get directions.
Is there an entrance fee at Big Stone Island Nature Area?
No entrance fee required. Fees can change by season, so confirm with the park before you go.
How do I contact Big Stone Island Nature Area?
You can call (605) 432-6374. The park office can confirm RV site availability, hookups, length limits and current conditions.
Are there RV campgrounds near Big Stone Island Nature Area?
Yes. The closest RV-friendly campgrounds listed on ParkedRV are:
- Gull Lake Recreation Area (126.3 mi, reservable)
- Mel Rieman Rec (139.0 mi, reservable)
- Eggerts Landing (141.0 mi, reservable)
How current is this information about Big Stone Island Nature Area?
This listing was last updated on October 8, 2026. If something is out of date, let us know and we'll fix it.