There’s something incredibly alluring about the peace and quiet of secluded places, and Western South Dakota is brimming with such hidden gems. I’ve always been fascinated by the small towns tucked away amid the rolling plains and rugged hills, where life moves at a different pace.
From vast prairies to dense forests, these towns offer a retreat from the bustle of modern life. Whether you’re seeking solitude, a close-knit community, or a deep connection with nature, these places have it all.
While the high-plains identity dominates the broad view—big sky, sparse settlement, tough shortgrass—the real hallmark of western South Dakota is its abrupt, scenic interruptions: Badlands spires, forested hills, and river canyons nested inside the prairie expanse. Those contrasts give each of the 10 towns we explore their own flavor of seclusion, whether it’s Flat Earth silence in Owanka or pine-scented stillness around Rochford.
10. Owanka: Journey to Isolation
Owanka is truly a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of place, with a population that barely reaches double digits. When I visited, I was struck by the quiet that envelops this unincorporated community nestled in the vast expanse of South Dakota’s prairie.
There’s not much in terms of industry here—most of the land is used for ranching, and the residents enjoy the simplicity that comes with such a lifestyle. The main draw for me is the sheer isolation; it’s the perfect spot to disconnect and immerse oneself in the open skies and rolling grasslands.
Without the distractions of urban life, you can truly appreciate the subtle beauty of the High Plains. Owanka’s seclusion is reinforced by its minimal development and the miles of unpaved roads that surround it, making it a haven for those seeking true solitude.
Where is Owanka?
Owanka is located in Pennington County, east of Rapid City, along what was once the route of the Chicago and North Western Railway. Its remote location on the vast plains is one of the reasons it’s so secluded—there are few major roads leading there, and it’s surrounded by miles of open land.
To get there, I took Highway 14/16 east from Rapid City and then ventured onto county roads that stretch through the prairie. The journey itself feels like a step back in time, and by the time you arrive in Owanka, you’ll understand why it’s considered one of the most isolated spots in Western South Dakota.
9. Fairburn: Hidden in the Hills
With a population hovering around 80 residents, Fairburn is one of those places that feels like a well-kept secret. Nestled in the foothills of the Black Hills, this tiny town offers an escape into nature’s embrace. I’ve enjoyed exploring the nearby Buffalo Gap National Grassland, where hiking and wildlife viewing are a tranquil delight.
There’s a sense of history here too—Fairburn was once a bustling stop during the gold rush days, and remnants of that era still whisper through the town. The seclusion comes from its tucked-away location amid the hills, far from the main tourist routes.
Agriculture and ranching are the primary industries, lending a peaceful, rural atmosphere that I find incredibly soothing.
Where is Fairburn?
Fairburn is situated in Custer County, south of Rapid City and east of Custer State Park. Its location off the beaten path, nestled among rolling hills and close to the Fairburn Agate Beds, contributes to its secluded feel.
To reach Fairburn, I took Highway 79 south from Rapid City and then turned onto county roads that weave through the scenic landscape. The journey through open rangeland and rugged hills makes it clear why Fairburn remains a quiet haven away from the hustle and bustle.
8. Wasta: Retreat into Simplicity
Wasta, with its modest population of around 75, is a place where simplicity takes center stage. I was charmed by the quiet streets and the feeling that time moves just a bit slower here. The town rests along the Cheyenne River, offering opportunities for fishing and enjoying the serene riverside environment.
Agriculture is the mainstay, with many residents engaged in farming and ranching. What makes Wasta secluded is its position off Interstate 90, making it easily bypassed by travelers heading to more prominent destinations.
It’s this very quality that provides a peaceful retreat, where large lot sizes and open spaces invite you to breathe deeply and unwind.
Where is Wasta?
Wasta is located in Pennington County, approximately 40 miles east of Rapid City along Interstate 90. Despite its proximity to the interstate, the town remains quiet and largely unnoticed by passing traffic. To get there, I simply exited off I-90 and found myself in a town that feels worlds away from the busy roadway.
The surrounding prairie and the vast sky create a sense of openness that underscores Wasta’s secluded nature.
7. Scenic: Quietude at the Edge of the Badlands
Scenic is a near-ghost town that truly lives up to its name, offering breathtaking views at the edge of the Badlands National Park. With a population that barely reaches a dozen, I found it to be a place where silence reigns and the rugged beauty of the Badlands takes center stage.
There’s a haunting charm to the abandoned buildings and the old structures that hint at a bygone era. While there aren’t traditional industries here, the stark landscape and open spaces provide a unique backdrop for photography and quiet exploration.
Scenic’s seclusion comes from both its tiny population and its location away from major roads, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude amidst dramatic scenery.
Where is Scenic?
Scenic is situated in Pennington County, about 50 miles southeast of Rapid City along Highway 44. Its location on the outskirts of the Badlands contributes to its feeling of remoteness. I reached Scenic by following Highway 44 through miles of open prairie and rugged terrain, a journey that underscored just how isolated it is.
The vast stretches of undeveloped land and the minimal traffic make it clear why Scenic remains one of the most secluded spots in Western South Dakota.
6. Quinn: Peace on the Plains
Quinn is a small town where the horizon seems endless, and the peace of the plains comes alive. With a population of about 60 residents, I’ve found it to be a place where community ties are strong and the hustle of modern life feels distant.
The town offers a serene setting for those interested in bird watching or simply enjoying the expanse of the prairie. Agriculture is the heartbeat of Quinn, with many residents involved in farming and ranching.
Its seclusion is due to its remote location and the vast stretches of surrounding farmland, providing ample space and tranquility away from urbanization.
Where is Quinn?
Quinn is located in Pennington County, just north of Interstate 90 and east of Wall. Its position on the open plains far from larger cities contributes to its secluded character. I took Interstate 90 to Exit 98 and followed a county road north to reach Quinn, passing through miles of agricultural land along the way.
The journey emphasizes the isolation, with few signs of civilization between the highway and the town, making Quinn a peaceful retreat into simplicity.
5. Red Shirt: Seclusion by the River
Red Shirt is a small community nestled near the Cheyenne River, with a population of around 40 residents. When I visited, I was captivated by the tranquility that comes from being so closely connected to nature.
The river offers opportunities for fishing and quiet reflection, and the surrounding landscape is rich with the history and culture of the Oglala Lakota people. There isn’t much in the way of industry, but the community thrives on its traditions and the natural resources of the land.
Red Shirt’s seclusion is enhanced by its remote location and the natural barriers created by the river and the rugged terrain, providing an intimate connection with nature that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Red Shirt?
Red Shirt is located in Oglala Lakota County, on the northeastern edge of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. It’s situated near the confluence of the Cheyenne River and Red Shirt Table, a prominent landform in the Badlands.
To get there, I traveled south from Scenic on BIA Highway 41, navigating through a landscape that feels untouched by time. The remote roads and the lack of nearby towns contribute to Red Shirt’s isolated feel, making the journey just as memorable as the destination.
4. Oral: Oasis of Calm
Oral is an unincorporated area that truly lives up to its name as an oasis of calm. With a sparse population, the community offers expansive acreage and a peaceful environment. I appreciated the wide-open spaces and the opportunity to disconnect from the hectic pace of daily life.
The area is primarily agricultural, with ranching and farming dominating the landscape. What makes Oral secluded is its distance from larger towns and the serenity provided by the surrounding natural beauty of South Dakota’s southern plains.
Where is Oral?
Oral is located in Fall River County, southeast of Hot Springs. To reach it, I took Highway 18 east from Hot Springs and then turned onto county roads that wind through the rural countryside. The lack of major highways and the sprawling nature of the land contribute to Oral’s secluded atmosphere.
The journey through rolling hills and open fields makes it clear why Oral is a perfect spot for embracing a quiet, rural lifestyle.
3. Buffalo Gap: Gateway to Solitude
Buffalo Gap, with its population of just over 130 residents, serves as a peaceful gateway to the southern Black Hills. I was drawn to its historic charm, with buildings that hint at its past as a frontier town.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nearby Wind Cave National Park and Custer State Park, making it a perfect base for exploring the area’s natural wonders. Ranching is prevalent here, and the community maintains a strong connection to the land.
The seclusion of Buffalo Gap comes from its small size and the surrounding undeveloped land, offering a serene environment ideal for those seeking privacy and a slower pace of life.
Where is Buffalo Gap?
Buffalo Gap is located in Custer County, south of Rapid City and east of the Black Hills. It’s accessible via Highway 79, but its distance from larger cities and tourist hubs keeps it quiet. I drove south from Rapid City, enjoying the gradual change from cityscape to open prairie and rolling hills.
The town’s location amid vast ranchlands and near pristine natural areas contributes to its secluded charm, making it a hidden gem for those in search of solitude.
2. Oelrichs: Tranquil Prairie Living
Oelrichs is a quaint town of about 120 residents, where the prairie stretches as far as the eye can see. I found it to be a place where tranquility is part of daily life, and the community is close-knit and welcoming.
The town is surrounded by open grasslands, making it ideal for those who appreciate wide-open spaces and stunning sunsets. Agriculture is the main industry here, with farming and ranching shaping the local economy.
Oelrichs’ seclusion is due to its remote setting and the minimal development in the area, providing a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of city life.
Where is Oelrichs?
Located in Fall River County, Oelrichs sits along Highway 18 near the Nebraska border. To get there, I traveled south from Hot Springs, enjoying the expansive views of the prairie along the way. The town’s distance from larger urban centers and the vast surrounding landscapes make it feel wonderfully isolated.
The peaceful drive and the simplicity of the roads emphasize why Oelrichs is a haven for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle amid natural beauty.
1. Rochford: A Hidden Gem in the Black Hills
Rochford is perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in the Black Hills, with a population that might just be in the single digits. Hidden deep within dense forests and rolling hills, I’ve found Rochford to be a perfect place for those looking to truly get away.
The town boasts the historic Moonshine Gulch Saloon, a must-visit spot where locals and travelers alike share stories. Outdoor activities abound, with nearby trails for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling depending on the season.
There isn’t much in terms of industry—most of the livelihood here revolves around tourism and the occasional passing traveler. What makes Rochford secluded is not just its tiny population but its location, enveloped by the Black Hills National Forest and far from urban centers.
Where is Rochford?
Rochford is located in Pennington County, north of Hill City and southwest of Lead and Deadwood. To reach it, I meandered through winding forest roads, passing through breathtaking landscapes of pine-covered hills.
The town is accessed via Rochford Road, which itself is a scenic route that underscores the isolation of the area. Its position deep within the Black Hills, away from major highways and cities, makes Rochford a truly secluded haven for those seeking peace amid nature.
