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The Outdoor Campus - Rapid City
4.8 ★★★★★ 412 Google reviews · Running trail in Rapid City, South Dakota · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- 1.5 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from The Outdoor Campus - Rapid City's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
State-run park featuring nature trails, an aquarium, native wildlife & educational programs.
What runners say about The Outdoor Campus - Rapid City
“This is set in a very busy area but its peaceful and beautiful.”
Monica and The Visitor Center was so nice! I found one of your Earth Day signs on a hike and came in to pick up my pen. We got to talking about an area of Florida she should definitely come visit. She gave such a warm welcome to South Dakota! -Kimberly from Florida 🌴
This was certainly a nice walk in what would be a busy town. Sits on the edge of Rapid on the west side. Very quiet and nice area. A few photos to show off the area
So worth a trip. This is set in a very busy area but its peaceful and beautiful. My friend loved the displays and I liked the fact that we had the place pretty much all to ourselves we got their right at opening, so we were able to take our time and mender through instead of being rushed off by kids or lots of people.
We came here on a field trip and had a blast! They had so much to offer and lots to do, including lots of walking trails. We will definitely be coming back!
Trail conditions & character
“This is set in a very busy area but its peaceful and beautiful.”
“They have multiple pavilions and greay inappropriate facilities if you jeed to use the bathroom etc.”
Plan your run at The Outdoor Campus - Rapid City
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- Distance1.5 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitegfp.sd.gov
- Phone+1 605-394-2310
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Running trails near Rapid City
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
M Hill
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Skyline Wilderness West Dinosaur Trailhead
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Founders Park
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Sprawling green space along Rapid Creek with hiking and walking trails, plus picnic tables.
Petrified Forest Trailhead
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Landscaped area featuring hiking trails and views of Rapid City.