South Dakota doesn’t have a strong reputation for travel. Relegated to ‘flyover country’ like other Midwestern states located on the Great Plains, it’s often overlooked.
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The capital city of Pierre has a population of just under 15,000. Nearby Sioux Falls, the state’s main metro hub, has around 275,000 residents.
Some Americans could list off Mount Rushmore as South Dakota’s main attraction, which is located in the gorgeous Badlands National Park in the Badlands region. And that might be it.
Being from Missouri, which is partly covered in prairielands, I have a soft spot for overlooked states—especially those with unique terrain like badlands and plains. I’m a sucker for wide open spaces that make the blue sky seem infinite, what can I say?
Regardless of what brings you to South Dakota, you might find the state to be lovelier than expected, especially in outposts like Aberdeen, Brookings, and Watertown. And I’ve got the Airbnbs to prove it. If you’ll be visiting anytime soon—even in the depths of winter—these Airbnbs in South Dakota will set you up for a memorable stay.
10 Airbnbs in South Dakota that will make you want to come back
- Stylish farm stay near Rapid City
- Warm & luxurious guest suite in Rapid City
- Mountain cabin in Leeds
- Unique stay near Custer
- Cabin in Custer
- Tiny home in Custer
- Tiny home in Lead
- Home in Estelline
- Home in Mansfield
- Cabin in Hartford
11 Airbnbs in South Dakota perfect for your first visit
Stylish farm stay near Rapid City: Cozy Cabin on Bucking Bull Ranch
Bucking Bull ranch is a working ranch home to highland cows—which you can even feed. The peaceful surroundings are located just outside of Rapid City, giving you access to a peaceful homestead and nearby hiking trails in the Black Hills. But you might find yourself captured by this small cabin’s mighty interior. It has a moody, country design that fits perfectly with the surroundings.
Warm & luxurious guest suite in Rapid City: Private & peaceful
If you’d rather stay inside Rapid City’s bounds, this guest suite is the perfect landing pad. It offers sweeping views of the Black Hills from the back porch, which you can enjoy from a hot tub. The guest suite looks newly renovated with modern but warm features. This Airbnb is a guest suite that’s independent of the main house, so expect plenty of privacy.
Mountain cabin in Leeds: On Mountain Time
This A-Frame is nestled in the woods near a main road in the Black Hills, giving you both privacy and access. Nearby, you’ll find popular trails like the Mickelson Trail, along with hotspots like the famous Deadwood. The interior is bright and cozy, while there’s a great little porch out back with a full-sized hot tub. You can strike out on an adventure or just stay in. The choice is yours at this mountain cabin.
Unique stay near Custer: Shipping Container House
Do you enjoy unique, bespoke stays? Check out this stacked shipping container house that comes with a large covered porch on the second floor. Built in 2024, it’s modern, cozy, and surprisingly large. Along with the large upstairs porch, there’s also an outdoor fire pit where you can observe the wildlife, and a separate barbecue area. Nearby, you can rent ATVs and kayaks, or simply head into Custer to explore its quaint downtown.
Cabin in Custer: Nature Stay with Views
This large, classic cabin sleeps six guests in three bedrooms. Secluded in the forested hills, you’ll feel totally immersed in your surroundings thanks to the home’s large windows. It’s the perfect place for a family retreat, as this cabin also puts you close to popular destinations like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and more. If you want to stay at your home away from home, you can soak up your surroundings from the cabin’s expansive porch.
Tiny home in Custer: Hobbit Hole with Needle Spire Views
My last Custer recommendation is a lovely cabin that includes two hard-to-beat features: an outdoor Scandi-style sauna and views of Needle Spire, an iconic Black Hills sight. Though only five miles from downtown Custer, you’ll feel at peace at this cabin. It’s also perfect for families with young kids. There’s a bunkbed room, along with outdoor toys and a nearby playground.
Tiny home in Lead: Mirror Cabin in the Black Hills
I’ve got another unique selection: a mirror cabin. Mirror cabins, like the name suggests, have mirrored facades that make them blend in with the surroundings. From the inside, those mirrored walls give you a perfect view of your surroundings. This property includes a small mirror cabin, along with another non-mirrored structure. With dramatic views overlooking the Black Hills and an outdoor fire pit and hot tub, it’s the perfect place to relax in total solitude. I recommend this pick for couples looking for an intimate, memorable retreat.
Home in Estelline: Charming Lake House
Located on the shore of Lake Poinsett, this lake house offers a private dock, a modern sauna that fits three, a large hot tub, and a fire pit—all overlooking the lake. Plus, it comes with kayaks and paddleboards, in case you want to get out on the water. This lovely home sleeps seven guests and comes with three bedrooms, making it ideal for a family escape or a large group adventure.
Home in Mansfield: Micro-Cabin in Pheasant Country
If you’re like me, you find peace in wide-open spaces. This micro-cabin gives you a front-row seat to some of the Great Plains’ most sweeping views. Whether covered in snow or dotted with wildflowers, you’ll feel relaxed—especially inside this minimalist, beautifully appointed micro-cabin. If you’re not normally a fan of mini-homes, don’t write this one off. Those grand views make the property feel endless.
Cabin in Hartford: Cozy Lake Cabin with Boat Access
I’m rounding off this list of Airbnbs in South Dakota with another lakefront property. Located on Wall Lake near Sioux Falls, you can bring your own boat and rig. The large interior sleeps six guests and has an open plan that’s ideal for larger gatherings. You can even bring your dog with you, if your pup also enjoys days out on the water.
