Sica Hollow State Park

Sica Hollow State Park in northeastern South Dakota, northwest of Sisseton, is a protected natural area notable for a wooded ravine landscape uncommon in the region. Its name, from the Dakota word “Sica,” meaning bad or evil, reflects iron-red tinted water that the Dakota people associated with blood. Local tradition tells of a time when the hollow was a peaceful refuge until a destructive stranger named Hand brought violence, prompting the Medicine Man Wicasa Wakan to call on Wakantanka, the Great Spirit, and Thunderer to destroy the evil presence. In 1967, the area was designated a National Natural Landmark and remains valued for both natural and cultural significance.

South Dakota · United States