Roberts County offers a variety of reasons to explore: lake landscapes and trails, distinctive buildings, and places with cultural and archaeological history. Each destination offers something different. As you plan, consider whether you mainly want to hike, spend time around the lakes, or explore historic places.
Landscapes, Lakes, and Trails
The county’s landscape is shaped by numerous lakes, views from the high Coteau, and picturesque surroundings. Sica Hollow State Park is part of the Glacial River Warren and Coteau des Prairies geological landscapes, both designated National Natural Landmarks. The Trail of the Spirits is a self-guided interpretive walking trail through the park. It was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1971.
The lakes also differ in character. Pickerel Lake is a spring-fed lake covering 955 acres and is one of South Dakota’s deepest natural lakes. Roy Lake State Park’s listed amenities include sandy beaches, a boat ramp, boat rentals, and a trail to an island. The lake’s archaeological context includes Woodland Culture burial mounds; artifacts found near the park date from 900 to 1300 AD.
Those looking to combine trails with historic stops will find five hiking trails at Hartford Beach State Park that pass historic sites and viewpoints. At the eastern end of the Robar Trail stands a log trading post that operated from 1863 to 1873. The historic sites in the park span approximately the period from 300 to 1600 AD. This time period refers to the sites in the park as a whole.
Hartford Beach State Park also offers a boat ramp, as well as beaches for swimming and boating. There is also a nine-hole disc golf course with views of Big Stone Lake. Within the park, trails, historic places, and various recreational activities each offer their own reasons to visit.
Sica Hollow State Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day; “open” does not always mean fully accessible, and weather can affect practical conditions. Check current accessibility before planning your visit.
Architecture and Cultural History
In Sisseton, the Stavig House is a three-story Victorian home. Norwegian immigrant Andrew Stavig had it built in 1916; the house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours focus on the architecture and the history of an immigrant family. The Roberts County Courthouse in Sisseton offers a different architectural accent: built in 1902, the building is designed in the Neo-Classical Revival style and was added to the National Register in 1976.
The Sisseton Agency Headquarters & Wacipi Grounds in Agency Village was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2022. From 1869 to 1923, the site served as the Agency headquarters and is significant to the history of decision-making among the Sisseton and Wahpeton people. Wacipi celebrations, also called powwows, have been held there since the Reservation was established. Gatherings on July 4 include religious ceremonies, dancing, feasting, and singing.
Another historic landmark near Sisseton is the Ancient River Warren Channel. It is registered as a natural landmark and includes the Mound Builders Burial Ground. A monument also stands on a high Coteau, overlooking the Whetstone and Little Minnesota valleys.
The Nicollet Tower honors French cartographer Joseph N. Nicollet. From the tower, the view stretches across South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota, six counties, eleven communities, and the Continental Divide. The Nicollet Interpretive Center features Nicollet’s large map, a documentary film, and artworks by John S. Wilson. Scenic Highway 10 begins in Sisseton and heads west to the 75-foot-tall tower.
Events and Visitor Planning
The Ft. Sisseton Historical Festival takes place on the first full weekend in June. A military encampment with cavalry and infantry units is set up on the fort grounds as part of the festival. Check the specific event dates and schedule before you travel. The visitor center at Fort Sisseton Historic State Park is open daily from the Open-House weekend through Labor Day; it is also a good idea to check the hours before setting out.
The Sisseton Arts Council offers public events and activities throughout the year; individual offerings may change. Cultural events therefore complement historic places and outdoor destinations with other possible activities. Choose your priorities based on when you are traveling, and check the dates and opening hours for seasonal offerings in advance.
Sisseton, Yankton, Pennington, Lincoln County, Brookings, Charles Mix County, Jerauld County, Jones County.
For the overall travel guide: South Dakota.
