A Weekend Guide to Stone State Park: Hikes, Views, and Picnic Spots

It’s May 27th, and that early-summer itch is officially here. If you’re looking to get out of your routine at The Ridge Apartments and immerse yourself in the best views Woodbury County has to offer, you don't have to travel far.

Just a short drive across town sits Stone State Park, a 1,600-acre urban wildlife sanctuary tucked into the heart of the Loess Hills. Whether you are looking for a rigorous trail run to kickstart your Saturday morning or a quiet spot to watch the sunset over the Missouri River floodplain, Stone State Park is the ultimate local escape.  

Here is how to plan your perfect late-May weekend adventure.

The Trails: From Casual Strolls to Rugged Climbs

With over 15 miles of trails winding through bur oak forests and rare prairie remnants, there is a path for every fitness level. Because the Loess Hills are made of a unique, compact soil, making for smooth, but wonderfully steep hiking.

• For the Beginner: Start with the Carolyn Benne Nature Trail. It’s a self-guided, interpretive loop that gives you a fantastic overview of the local ecosystem without requiring heavy-duty hiking gear.  

• For the View Seeker: Take the Tunnel Trail (which physically passes underneath Savannah Road) and connect to the Buffalo Run Trail. This path leads you directly to Dakota Point Overlook, where you can stand on the ridgeline and look out across the Big Sioux River into South Dakota and Nebraska.  

• For the Challenge: Head to the southern half of the park and tackle the loop connecting Broken Toe Trail to Mount Lucia. This section is deeper in the woods, much more rugged, and hits those steep inclines that will give your legs a serious workout.  

Pack a Lunch: The Best Picnic Spots

After exploring the ridges, you’ll want to take advantage of the park's shaded valleys. Stone State Park features historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) stone structures and open grassy areas perfect for throwing down a blanket.  

For an intimate, quiet lunch, look for the shaded benches near the small fishing pond on the south side. If you are bringing a larger group, the Wahkaw Shelter offers open picnic areas surrounded by massive, oak trees.  

Before you leave, don't forget to swing by the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center on the southwest edge of the park. Their interactive "walk-under" prairie exhibit and live bird sanctuary are great ways to cool off in the AC after a long hike.  

Pro-Tips for a Great Hike

To ensure your weekend hike stays relaxing and fun, keep these quick tips in mind:

• Watch the Gates: Note that the main gates to certain scenic overlooks can close around 4:00 PM, though the park trails themselves remain open later. If you plan on catching the sunset, make sure to park in the lower designated lots so your vehicle doesn't get locked in!

• Leave No Trace: The loess soil is incredibly prone to erosion. Stick firmly to the marked trails and avoid cutting across switchbacks to help preserve the hills for seasons to come.  

• Hydrate Early: The late-May humidity can sneak up on you under the forest canopy. Bring more water than you think you need, especially if you tackle the southern multi-use trails.

A Quick Note for Paws on the Trail

We love seeing our Ridge residents exploring the outdoors with their four-legged roommates! Dogs are incredibly welcome at Stone State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Because the prairie grasses and brush are in full summer bloom right now, tick protection is absolutely essential for your pets. Deer ticks and wood ticks are highly active in the Loess Hills during late May.

Before you hit the trailhead, ensure your dog is up-to-date on their vet-approved preventative treatments. Once you get back home to your apartment, do a thorough nose-to-tail check—paying close attention to their paws, underarms, and ears—to make sure the only thing they brought home was a tired tongue and a happy heart.