No Fireworks in State Parks

The upcoming Fourth of July holiday is a popular time in South Dakota's state parks and recreation areas. The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is asking state park visitors to leave fireworks at home.

According to Scott Simpson, state parks director, campgrounds are traditionally busy with campers and other visitors enjoying the parks during this time period.

“Parks are a Fourth of July destination,” said Simpson. “Combining fireworks and large numbers of people creates a dangerous situation. We appreciate visitors doing their part to help keep the parks safe.”

Discharging fireworks is prohibited on all lands owned or leased by GFP. The ban includes state parks, recreation areas, lakeside use areas, game production areas and nature areas. Discharging fireworks is also illegal within the boundaries of the Black Hills Forest Fire Protection District, national forests and national parks in South Dakota.

For more information on the South Dakota State Parks, visit gfp.sd.gov or call 605.773.3391.