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Program guide 

To view or download our complete program guide for Summer 2018 click here.


We want all children to benefit from the camps and classes offered at the SD Discovery Center! Thanks to the generosity of local sponsors, we may be able to offset the cost of our programs for families in need. No forms to fill out. Simply inquire by contacting Rhea.


Upcoming events

  • CuriosiTeens

    • 30 Nov 2017
    • 27 Sep 2018
    • 16 sessions
    • SD Discovery Center
    Register

    Ages 10 and up:

    Join us year round, every last Thursday of the month at 3:30 - 5:00 PM or
    GIRLS ONLY: 5:30 - 7:00 PM

    Do you like exciting experiments? Awesome adventures? Fantastic fun? Become a part of CuriosiTeens!

    Explore cool hands-on activities, go on adventures, design your own research project, or bring a science cafe to our community and meet special guests. Start your STEM* journey with us. (*Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

    Topics:

    • April 26: Molecular Gastronomy
      – how to make a special dinner using spherification
    • March 29: Earth Hour Special
      – find out why sea turtles are amazing, what special adaptations let them survive for millions of years and why there existence is threatened now 
    • February 22: Storytelling with Maps 2 "Let's take action!" 
      – see the consequences of over population and find out what you can do to save endangered species with National Geographic Education
    • January 25: Storytelling with Maps "We've got the whole world in our hands" 
      – explore the power of images and get a foundation in Geo-Literacy with National Geographic Education
    • December 28: Christmas Chemistry
      – explore the stages of matter by making a bubbling snow globe 
    • November 30: Explorer Science
      – a night with our special guest Anne Lewis, National Geographic Arctic Explorer
    • October 26: Halloween Science
      – how to make an illuminated sugar skull using sewable electronics
    • September 28: Science of Flight
      – how to make a bat skin kite using silicone rubber and 3Doodler



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  • Game Design Class

    • 20 Mar 2018
    • 1 May 2018
    • 6 sessions
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 0
    Registration is closed

    Game Design Class | Game Design Merit Badge

    What is your favorite game? Learn to design, code, and play your own video game using a free software system that you will have continued access to after the class.

    Build critical-thinking, creativity, and research skills, that can be translated into future robotics competitions and career aspirations.

    Boy Scouts can fulfill the requirements for the Game Design Merit Badge by participating in this class.


    Ages: 12 – 14 years

    Time: Tuesdays 3:15 - 5:00 PM (6 sessions)

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $47, non-members: $55

    Limit: max 10 participants


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  • Maker Day: Sewing Buttons and Hems DATE CHANGED!

    • 28 Apr 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center

    Are you tired of loose buttons, torn jeans, and pinching pants? It only takes a little bit of practice and you can learn how to fix up your clothes yourself!

    Join the Elk's at the SD Discovery Center for a Maker day and learn how to thread a needle, sew on a button, and get familiar with a sewing machine. Children can sew a button-up bracelet to take home. Free with paid admission to the SD Discovery Center.

    SPONSORED BY Elk's National Foundation Gratitude Grant for Pierre, SD, Lodge No. 1953.

    Learn more and become part of our Maker Community!



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  • Starry Saturday Planetarium Show

    • 28 Apr 2018
    • 8 Sep 2018
    • 10 sessions
    • SD Discovery Center

    Our digital planetarium is open to the public the second and forth Saturday of each month!  Show topics vary depending on the presenter (Greek or Lakota constellations, the moon, deep space objects, etc.).  It’s fun for the whole family. All ages welcome!

    Free with paid admission.  Members free. 


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  • Preschool Science 321 Blast Off!

    • 2 May 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 9
    Register


    Science FUN for little ones ages 4 - 6.

    Fee per class: members: $10, non-members: $12
    United Way funds available.


    May 2
    321 Blast Off!
    Have you ever wondered how rockets can travel so high in the sky, or what it would be like to launch your very own rocket? Come along with us for an adventure in space! We will design, build and launch our very own rockets! Using recycled bottles, cardboard, water and air we will master the science of rocketry.
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  • Outdoor Journey: Animal Habitats

    • 3 May 2018
    • 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Registration is closed

    Explore the life of bats, build a bat house, and learn how we can help protect the habitat of our furry friends. Juniors can earn their Animal Habitats badge. Not a Girl Scout? Not a problem! You can join in the fun too!



    Ages: Girls grade 4-5
    Location: Meet at the SD Discovery Center
    Fee: $17.00 Includes: Activities and patch

    Important: No tag-a-longs.

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  • Horse Day Camp

    • 6 Jun 2018
    • 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Antelope Creek Ranch
    • 9
    Register

    Horse Day Camp… A day of wild and wooly fun and learning!

    Every child who ever wished they had a horse will have their dream come true with a trustworthy equine friend. This day camp will feature horses, horseback riding and some ranch chores. The great outdoors will provide the setting for lots of hands on learning and fun! Riding helmets will be provided.

    Ages: 8 years and up

    Time:Wednesday June 6, 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
    Location: Meet at the SD Discovery Center at 8:30 AM for transportation to Antelope Creek Ranch. Campers will return to Discovery Center by 2:00PM.
    Fee: $135
    Limit: max 10, min 7 participants


    Horse Camps - Antelope Creek Horses & Horseback Riding LLC

    Antelope Creek Horses & Horseback Riding LLC is solely responsible for the content and implementation of the horse camps. Please contact the camp director, Diana Melvin, for any camp related questions, and inform her of any allergies, special dietary or other needs prior to camp: (605) 223-3172.
    Instructions for required clothing and other important items to bring will be sent out via email after sign-up.


    Show details

  • Horse Day Camp

    • 7 Jun 2018
    • 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Antelope Creek Ranch
    • 10
    Register

    Horse Day Camp… A day of wild and wooly fun and learning!

    Every child who ever wished they had a horse will have their dream come true with a trustworthy equine friend. This day camp will feature horses, horseback riding and some ranch chores. The great outdoors will provide the setting for lots of hands on learning and fun! Riding helmets will be provided.

    Ages: 8 years and up

    Time: Thursday June 7, 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
    Location: Meet at the SD Discovery Center at 8:30 AM for transportation to Antelope Creek Ranch. Campers will return to Discovery Center by 2:00PM.
    Fee: $135
    Limit: max 10, min 7 participants


    Horse Camps - Antelope Creek Horses & Horseback Riding LLC

    Antelope Creek Horses & Horseback Riding LLC is solely responsible for the content and implementation of the horse camps. Please contact the camp director, Diana Melvin, for any camp related questions, and inform her of any allergies, special dietary or other needs prior to camp: (605) 223-3172.
    Instructions for required clothing and other important items to bring will be sent out via email after sign-up.


    Show details

  • Horse Day Camp

    • 8 Jun 2018
    • 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Antelope Creek Ranch
    • 10
    Register

    Horse Day Camp… A day of wild and wooly fun and learning!

    Every child who ever wished they had a horse will have their dream come true with a trustworthy equine friend. This day camp will feature horses, horseback riding and some ranch chores. The great outdoors will provide the setting for lots of hands on learning and fun! Riding helmets will be provided.

    Ages: 8 years and up

    Time: Friday June 8, 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
    Location: Meet at the SD Discovery Center at 8:30 AM for transportation to Antelope Creek Ranch. Campers will return to Discovery Center by 2:00PM.
    Fee: $135
    Limit: max 10, min 7 participants


    Horse Camps - Antelope Creek Horses & Horseback Riding LLC

    Antelope Creek Horses & Horseback Riding LLC is solely responsible for the content and implementation of the horse camps. Please contact the camp director, Diana Melvin, for any camp related questions, and inform her of any allergies, special dietary or other needs prior to camp: (605) 223-3172.
    Instructions for required clothing and other important items to bring will be sent out via email after sign-up.


    Show details

  • Mom/Pop and Tot in the Garden

    • 8 Jun 2018
    • 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
    • 6
    Register

    Ages: 2 – 3 years and a parent, grandparent, or favorite adult

    Time: Fridays, 12:15 – 12:45 PM

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $10, non-members: $18 per class, United Way funds available.

    Limit: max 8 child & guardian couples

    Join us as we sing, laugh, and play together outside! Using the Discovery Center Gardens and special stations, toddlers and parents will explore different themes, create wonderful works of art, make beautiful music, pretend with finger plays, listen to children's stories and so much more.

    June 8 Garden Colors

    June 22 Garden Shapes

    July 13 Garden Numbers

    July 27 Garden Animals


    Show details

  • Garden to Table Camp - Elementary

    • 11 Jun 2018
    • 10:00 AM
    • 14 Jun 2018
    • 12:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 9
    Register

    Garden to Table Camp - Elementary

    Kids, come cook up some magic this summer! Explore the science of cooking, develop your knife know-how, and learn how to transform farm fresh fruits and veggies into fabulous (and good for you) meals and snacks.  Brownies can earn the Snack badge, Junior Girl Scouts the Simple Meals badge.

    We will not use peanuts or tree nuts in any of our dishes. If your child has any food allergies, please let us know prior to the first class.


    Ages: 7 – 10 years

    Dates: June 11 – 14, 10:00 AM – Noon

    Location: GMMS (use Prospect Avenue entrance) FACS Room 344

    Fee: members: $52, non-members: $60

    Limit: max: 15 participants


    Show details

  • Garden to Table Camp - Middle School

    • 11 Jun 2018
    • 1:00 PM
    • 14 Jun 2018
    • 3:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register

    Garden to Table Camp - Middle School

    Kids, come cook up some magic this summer! Explore the science of cooking, develop your knife know-how, and learn how to transform farm fresh fruits and veggies into fabulous (and good for you) meals and snacks.  Brownies can earn the Snack badge, Junior Girl Scouts the Simple Meals badge.

    We will not use peanuts or tree nuts in any of our dishes. If your child has any food allergies, please let us know prior to the first class.


    Ages: 11 – 14 years

    Dates: June 11 – 14, 1:00 – 3:00 PM

    Location: GMMS (use Prospect Avenue entrance) FACS Room 344

    Fee: members: $52, non-members: $60

    Limit: max: 15 participants


    Show details

  • Game Design Class

    • 12 Jun 2018
    • 14 Aug 2018
    • 8 sessions
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 7
    Register

    Game Design Class


    What is your favorite game? Learn to design, code, and play your own video game using a free software system that you will have continued access to after the class.

    Build critical-thinking, creativity, and research skills, that can be translated into future robotics competitions and career aspirations.

    Boy Scouts can fulfill the requirements for the Game Design Merit Badge by participating in this class.


    Ages: 12 – 14 years

    Time: Tuesdays 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (8 sessions)

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $47, non-members: $55

    Limit: max 10 participants


    Show details

  • Preschool Mini chefs - AM

    • 13 Jun 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register


    Science FUN for little ones ages 4 - 6.

    Fee per class: members: $10, non-members: $12
    United Way funds available.


    Mini Chefs

    Measure, stir and assemble kid-friendly, healthy snacks! We will focus on fun and safety in this introductory cooking class.
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  • Preschool Mini chefs - PM

    • 13 Jun 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register


    Science FUN for little ones ages 4 - 6.

    Fee per class: members: $10, non-members: $12
    United Way funds available.


    Mini Chefs

    Measure, stir and assemble kid-friendly, healthy snacks! We will focus on fun and safety in this introductory cooking class.
    Show details

  • Science Thursdays - Are we made of stardust?

    • 14 Jun 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 17
    Register

    Science Thursdays


    Ages: 6 – 8 years

    Time: Thursdays, 1:00 – 3:00 PM

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $10, non-members: $12 per class

    Limit: max: 20 participants

    June 14

    Are we made of stardust?

    Where did we come from and what are we made of? Learn about the origin of life on earth, what we have in common with our next of kin and why your family members look alike. Isolate your own DNA and make a DNA necklace.





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  • Science Fridays - Are we made of stardust?

    • 15 Jun 2018
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 20
    Register

    Science Fridays


    Ages: 9 – 12 years

    Time: Fridays, 9:00 – 11:00 AM

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $10, non-members: $12 per class

    Limit: max: 20 participants

    June 15

    Are we made of stardust?

    Where did we come from and what are we made of? Learn about the origin of life on earth, what we have in common with our next of kin and why your family members look alike. Isolate your own DNA and make a DNA necklace.



    Show details

  • GLOBE in the Field

    • 18 Jun 2018
    • 21 Jun 2018
    • 2 sessions
    • South Dakota Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register

    We are going into the field doing GLOBE protocols in Badlands National Park, June 18-21. 

    We will spend one day in the classroom in Pierre, South Dakota (June 18) and three in the field (June 19-21) in the Badlands. We will camp in Sage Creek primitive campground where the bison stroll through camp. We will have camping gear for low cost rental so there is no need to buy if do not already own.

    While in the park, we will do GLOBE field studies, use iNaturalist to document vegetation transects, observe wildlife, and visit with Park education staff to learn about the unique natural and geological features.  We will also work on our digital storytelling skills for a cross curricular experience so recruit your fellow teachers!

    The cost is $50. 2 credits will be offered for an additional fee. Meals include Mon lunch; Tues lunch and dinner; Wed breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Thurs breakfast.

    Travel to the park (about a 2 hour drive) will be arranged at the class, carpooling is encouraged. Park entrance fees will be waived.


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  • Garden to Table Camp - High School

    • 18 Jun 2018
    • 1:00 PM
    • 21 Jun 2018
    • 3:30 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register

    Garden to Table Camp - High School

    This camp will highlight the art of seasonal cooking in our own backyard.  Take a trip to a local farm, obtain fresh veggies and fruits and make delicious creations in the kitchen… all while expanding your culinary palate.

    Actual restaurant experience working side by side with a real chef will be part of the experience. Making and serving a meal or snack to guests will be the final chapter to an awesome Garden to Table cooking experience. Cadet Girl Scouts can earn the New Cuisines badge.

    We will not use peanuts or tree nuts in any of our dishes. If your child has any food allergies, please let us know prior to the first class.


    Ages: 14 – 17 years

    Dates: June 18 – 21, 1:00 – 3:30 PM

    Location: GMMS (use Prospect Avenue entrance) FACS Room 344

    Fee: members: $57, non-members: $65

    Limit: max: 15 participants


    Show details

  • Preschool Little Legos - AM

    • 20 Jun 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register


    Science FUN for little ones ages 4 - 6.

    Fee per class: members: $10, non-members: $12
    United Way funds available.


    Little Legos

    Work with special LEGO Duplo kits that have gears and moving parts to build boats, robots and other fun projects.
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  • Preschool Little Legos - PM

    • 20 Jun 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 14
    Register


    Science FUN for little ones ages 4 - 6.

    Fee per class: members: $10, non-members: $12
    United Way funds available.


    Little Legos

    Work with special LEGO Duplo kits that have gears and moving parts to build boats, robots and other fun projects.
    Show details

  • Science Thursdays - Diggin' Fossils

    • 21 Jun 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 18
    Register

    Science Thursdays


    Ages: 6 – 8 years

    Time: Thursdays, 1:00 – 3:00 PM

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $10, non-members: $12 per class

    Limit: max: 20 participants



    June 21


    Diggin’ Fossils

    How did we get to where we are now? Explore how scientists can use the fossil record to recreate how life on Earth changed through time. Take a closer look at transitional species and reconstruct an ancient fossil.




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  • Science Fridays - Diggin' Fossils

    • 22 Jun 2018
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 20
    Register

    Science Fridays


    Ages: 9 – 12 years

    Time: Fridays, 9:00 – 11:00 AM

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $10, non-members: $12 per class

    Limit: max: 20 participants

    June 22

    Diggin’ Fossils

    How did we get to where we are now? Explore how scientists can use the fossil record to recreate how life on Earth changed through time. Take a closer look at transitional species and reconstruct an ancient fossil.


    Show details

  • Mom/Pop and Tot in the Garden

    • 22 Jun 2018
    • 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
    • 8
    Register

    Ages: 2 – 3 years and a parent, grandparent, or favorite adult

    Time: Fridays, 12:15 – 12:45 PM

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $10, non-members: $18 per class, United Way funds available.

    Limit: max 8 child & guardian couples

    Join us as we sing, laugh, and play together outside! Using the Discovery Center Gardens and special stations, toddlers and parents will explore different themes, create wonderful works of art, make beautiful music, pretend with finger plays, listen to children's stories and so much more.

    June 8 Garden Colors

    June 22 Garden Shapes

    July 13 Garden Numbers

    July 27 Garden Animals


    Show details

  • Junior Outdoor Explorer Camp

    • 25 Jun 2018
    • 9:00 AM
    • 28 Jun 2018
    • 12:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 8
    Register

    Junior Outdoor Explorer Camp

    Join us for a fun week as a Nature Explorer!  This camp will provide quality science education in an outdoor, hands-on setting.  Campers will have a great time exploring all kinds of nature up close while riding bikes, exploring the skill of archery, building forts, and other exciting adventures. Earn the Brownie Outdoor Adventurer badge, or the Junior Eco Camper badge. Making a healthy snack will be part of each day. Please let us know if your child has any food allergies.

    Ages: 8 – 11 years

    Time: June 25 – 28, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Location: meet at SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $40, non-members: $48;

    Limit: max: 15 participants

    Sponsored by 319 I&E Project


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  • Preschool What's Wild? - AM

    • 27 Jun 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register




    Science FUN for little ones ages 4 - 6.

    Fee per class: members: $10, non-members: $12


    What's Wild?

    Would a coyote make a good house pet? How about a deer? Find out what all animals need to live and which ones you would like to share your home with. Get creative and make your own critter to take home, sign some animal songs and play animal charades.
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  • Preschool What's Wild? - PM

    • 27 Jun 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register




    Science FUN for little ones ages 4 - 6.

    Fee per class: members: $10, non-members: $12


    What's Wild?

    Would a coyote make a good house pet? How about a deer? Find out what all animals need to live and which ones you would like to share your home with. Get creative and make your own critter to take home, sign some animal songs and play animal charades.
    Show details

  • Science Thursdays - Build-a-Beast

    • 28 Jun 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 16
    Register

    Science Thursdays


    Ages: 6 – 8 years

    Time: Thursdays, 1:00 – 3:00 PM

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $10, non-members: $12 per class

    Limit: max: 20 participants



    June 28

    Build-a-Beast

    How do animals survive in extreme environments? Adaptation is an important part of evolution that allows all living organisms to survive in any habitat from hot deserts to the freezing arctic and even on the deep-sea floor. Create your own animal with extreme adaptations.


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  • Science Fridays - Build-a-Beast

    • 29 Jun 2018
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 20
    Register

    Science Fridays


    Ages: 9 – 12 years

    Time: Fridays, 9:00 – 11:00 AM

    Location: SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $10, non-members: $12 per class

    Limit: max: 20 participants

    June 29

    Build-a-Beast

    How do animals survive in extreme environments? Adaptation is an important part of evolution that allows all living organisms to survive in any habitat from hot deserts to the freezing arctic and even on the deep-sea floor. Create your own animal with extreme adaptations.



    Show details

  • Junior Outdoor Explorer Camp

    • 9 Jul 2018
    • 9:00 AM
    • 12 Jul 2018
    • 12:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 11
    Register

    Junior Outdoor Explorer Camp

    Join us for a fun week as a Nature Explorer!  This camp will provide quality science education in an outdoor, hands-on setting.  Campers will have a great time exploring all kinds of nature up close while riding bikes, exploring the skill of archery, building forts, and other exciting adventures. Earn the Brownie Outdoor Adventurer badge, or the Junior Eco Camper badge. Making a healthy snack will be part of each day. Please let us know if your child has any food allergies.

    Ages: 8 – 11 years

    Time: July 9 – 12, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Location: meet at SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $40, non-members: $48;

    Limit: max: 15 participants

    Sponsored by 319 I&E Project


    Show details

  • Advanced Outdoor Explorer Camp

    • 9 Jul 2018
    • 1:00 PM
    • 13 Jul 2018
    • 4:00 PM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 9
    Register

    Advanced Outdoor Explorer Camp

    This camp is designed especially for the older Nature Explorer! Test water quality, observe nature, and build a fire (smores!), all while kayaking down the Missouri River. Take a trip to the Grasslands and pilot a Citizen Science project. Venture into biking, snorkeling, fishing, geocaching, and archery during this fun explorer camp. Cadet Girl Scouts can earn their Archery and the Primitive Camping badge. Making a healthy snack will be part of each day. Please let us know if your child has any food allergies.

    Ages: 12 – 15 years

    Dates: July 9 – 13; 1:00 – 4:00 PM

    Location: meet at SD Discovery Center

    Fee: members: $50, non-members: $58;

    Limit: max: 10 participants


    Sponsored by 319 I&E Project


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  • Cowgirls Overnight Camp

    • 9 Jul 2018
    • 3:00 PM
    • 10 Jul 2018
    • 3:00 PM
    • Antelope Creek Ranch
    • 10
    Register

    Cowgirls Overnight Camp

    This camps is for every kid who ever wanted to be a cowgirl! Qualified staff, experienced horse and a rodeo and roping arena will be the setting for this camp. The atmosphere will encourage campers to advance their riding skills, expand horsemanship knowledge, learn horse and ranch routines and enjoy riding! All levels of riding experience will be accommodated. Participants will sleep under the stars (or bring a tent). Riding helmets will be provided.

    Ages: 10 – 18 years

    Time: Cowgirl: July 9 – 10

    (Camps may become coed if numbers require)
    Location: Meet at the SD Discovery Center at 3:00 pm the first day for transportation to Antelope Creek Ranch. Campers will return to Discovery Center by 3:30PM second day
    Fee: $235
    Limit: max 10, min 7 participants



    Horse Camps - Antelope Creek Horses & Horseback Riding LLC

    Antelope Creek Horses & Horseback Riding LLC is solely responsible for the content and implementation of the horse camps. Please contact the camp director, Diana Melvin, for any camp related questions, and inform her of any allergies, special dietary or other needs prior to camp: (605) 223-3172.
    Instructions for required clothing and other important items to bring will be sent out via email after sign-up.


    Show details

  • Preschool All About Owls - AM

    • 11 Jul 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • SD Discovery Center
    • 15
    Register