Explore Native American History in South Dakota

WE have all seen and heard the story of the West from the White Man's point of view. Take the time to explore over the Native American Byway through North and South Dakota and get the Native American side of the story. Visit the reservations and Native American Lands and get up close and personal with history. You will come away with a more complete understanding of the events of pioneer days that changed so much of our history and are responsible for so much of the things we have today.

Akta Lakota Museum
Native American Scenic Byway
Chamberlain, South Dakota 57325
The museum is located on the campus of St. Joseph Indian School. It is dedicated to the Lakota Sioux and you will learn the legends and customs of the Lakota and see the displays of the art work from the tribe's members. It is the perfect place to begin your journey and explore history, by learning of the traditions that made the people what they are today.

After you leave the museum when you are finally able to tare yourself and the rest of the family away, head out and really get ready to explore at the Crow Creek Indian Reservation. Crow Creek was established in 1862. The Lode Star Casino and Hotel are on the site and there is boating and fishing. There is a campground, with beaches, swimming and boat launch facilities. You might be able to catch one of the special pow wows, or rodeos that go on during the summer.

Farm Island Recreation Area South Dakota
Native American Scenic Byway
There are many reservations to explore in the area and this is a good place to camp while you visit them. It all depends on how many you have on your trip list and this is a great place all be itself. There are hiking and biking trails as well as a nice beach and water sports.

On the Standing Rock Reservation, you will find the Sakakawea And Sitting Bull Monuments, memorials to two names from American history, all of American history. Fort Manuel is located here also and it is said that the original Fort Manuel is where Sakakawea spent her last days. The original fort is gone, but there is a faithful replica, where you can get a good prospective of the lives of the pony soldiers of the 1800's. There is an excellent exhibit on the Lewis And Clark Expedition and on the fur traders who played an important part in the everyday life of the fort and the Native Americans of that time.

Fort Yates Stockade, Fort Yates North Dakota
This is the only authentic building left of what was once a major fort in the area. Sitting Bull was one of the more famous of the detainees that were held here. It looks so peaceful today, sitting in a grove of trees, it is hard to remember what its original purpose was.