In 1998 thirty acres of meadow and swampy sloughs began its transformation into a vibrant landscape of flower beds, a winding pond, sculptures, a fountain, tree collections, and meandering paths that wind through native prairie.
The vision of arboretum founders and the Freeman Academy Board of Directors turned a cow pasture on the south side of campus into a community treasure shared by locals and travelers alike.
The Freeman Prairie Arboretum contains diverse species of trees, grasses and plants that are native and adaptive to southeastern South Dakota.
The pond is open for fishing when it is ice free. Please catch and release and keep the fish population strong.
Pets are welcome on a leash as required by city regulations. Please clean up after your pet. Green waste bags are available in two dispensers – just north of the picnic area by the Visitor Center and at the eastern trail entrance to the arboretum.
Picnic tables are provided by the Visitor Center. However, you can pitch a blanket or set up camp chairs throughout the arboretum.
Due to fire concerns, grills and other open sources of flame are not permitted.
The Freeman Prairie Arboretum is on the grounds of Freeman Academy. The Academy’s administrative team helps with event scheduling, Visitor Center contracts, billing, and donations. Call 605-925-4237.
Please email prairiearboretum@gmail.com
We would love to speak with you.
Feel free to reach out using the below details.
Address: 900 Cedar St Box 1000, Freeman, SD 57029
Phone: (605) 925-4237
