How to Become a Park Ranger in South Dakota (Training & Salary Info.)

More specifically, the degree should be in an area that will be of particular benefit to working in a state park, such as law enforcement, public administration, natural sciences, or environmental conservation.

Being certified in such areas as a first responder, first aid and CPR, and/or EMT are also beneficial.

Those with law enforcement experience and training are sought out as it will ensure you’re able to carry out investigations in the event that something happens inside of the park.

With sufficient training, you will have the qualifications to make arrests, carry firearms, assist in executing warrants, and investigate crimes.

Beyond park ranger jobs, there are also entry-level and seasonal positions that can provide you with valuable experience.

You will need to submit a resume and provide character references.

The agency looks for individuals who are of good moral character and who have education and/or experience working in parks and around nature.

Additionally, you will need to submit to a medical exam and drug screening prior to a job being offered to you.

Park Ranger Duties in South Dakota

Park rangers in South Dakota are responsible for law enforcement within the state parks as well as preventing threats to guests from animals that may be in the area.

Park rangers may work seasonally or year-round in South Dakota depending on the park itself.

All park rangers will help to oversee the day-to-day activities, focus on public safety, and ensure that the various recreational activities are safe depending on what is going on for the given day.

State Parks in South Dakota

The state parks in South Dakota offer not only important ecosystems for flora and fauna but also countless recreational activities so that you can spend time outdoors.

Each park has something unique to offer.

Explore some of the state parks in South Dakota such as:

Bear Butte State Park: Located in Sturgis, the park is found along the Black Hills.

You’ll find such activities as horseback riding, hiking trails, fishing, and boating.

The park also has an education center to learn about the culture of the Northern Plain Indians as well as the geology of the mountain.

Fisher Grove State Park: Located in Frankfort, the park is home to one of the traditional rock river crossings for American Indians.

There is biking on park roads, canoeing and fishing in the river, golf at the neighboring Fisher Grove Country Club, and much more.

Good Earth State Park: Located in Sioux Falls, the park offers nature playscapes, historic sites, and hiking trails.

There’s also a large calendar of events throughout the year that focus on education, group hikes, and holiday fun.

Lake Herman State Park: Located in Madison, the park is home to a lake that was formed by melting glacial ice thousands of years ago.

Today, it is home to camping, fishing, boating, and even disc golf.

There are also camping cabins that can be reserved.

Sica Hollow State Park: Located in Sisseton, the park has a lot of history from the Sioux Indians.

Geocaching and birdwatching are some of the top activities, though the year-round park also offers hiking and biking trails.

Salary

The salary for a park ranger in South Dakota can vary dramatically.

On average, the annual salary is around $36,800.

According to salary.com, the average park ranger in Sioux Falls will earn a salary between $30,473 and $44,606.

The amount that you are capable of earning as a park ranger will depend heavily on the years of experience that you have, any special skills, as well as your education.

Annual Salary Range:

$29K

$35K

$42K

10%

50%

90%

Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Sioux Falls	$36,865
Rapid City	$35,641
Aberdeen	$33,469
Brookings	$36,249
Watertown	$36,249
Mitchell	$36,249
Pierre	$34,085
Yankton	$35,415
Huron	$34,859
Vermillion	$34,582

Regional Salary in South Dakota

Region	Employed	Avg. Annual Salary	Avg. Hourly Pay	Top 10% Annual Salary	Bottom 10% Annual Salary
Rapid City, SD	40	$65,660	$31.57	$91,100	$38,820

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Conservation Scientists, OCC Code 19-1031, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest state park in South Dakota?

The largest state park in South Dakota is Custer State Park.

It is located in the Black Hills and encompasses 71,000 acres.

How many hours a week does the average park ranger work?

Most park rangers work an average of 40 hours a week.

There may be added requirements for weekends and holidays depending on the events going on during a particular time.

Are there any special certifications required to be a park ranger in South Dakota?

While it is not required, it is helpful if you have graduated from the National Park Service Seasonal Law Enforcement Training Program, also known as SLETP.

Is there a minimum age to work as a park ranger?

You will have to be at least 21 years of age whether you want to work for the state or for the federal government in one of the parks located in South Dakota.

How many state parks are there in South Dakota?

There are a total of 13 state parks as well as 43 recreational areas across the state of South Dakota.

Read the full guide: How to Become a Wildlife Conservationist

Park Ranger by State

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