PIERRE, S.D. — To celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the South Dakota Parks & Wildlife Foundation (SDPWF), students across the state are invited to participate in two statewide contests: Youth Visions & Voices of the Outdoors Essay Contest and Youth Visions & Voices of the Outdoors Art Contest.
Both contests encourage young South Dakotans to reflect on meaningful outdoor experiences and share their memories through writing and art.
“South Dakota state parks are places where families and friends camp under the stars, hike scenic trails, gather around a campfire, and create lifelong memories,” said Kristina Coby, Executive Director of the South Dakota Parks & Wildlife Foundation. “This opportunity gives students the space to reflect on those moments and inspire future generations to value our great places; just like our mission does.”
Youth Visions & Voices of the Outdoors – Essay Contest (Grades 6–8)
The Essay Contest is open to South Dakota students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Students are invited to write a 3–5 paragraph essay (250–500 words) describing a memorable experience they’ve had in a South Dakota state park — or one they hope to have someday — and explain why these places matter for families, communities, and future generations.
Youth Visions & Voices of the Outdoors – Art Contest (Grades 9–12)
The Art Contest is open to South Dakota high school students in grades 9–12. Students are invited to create an original work of art illustrating a memorable experience in a South Dakota state park — whether it’s a landscape, wildlife scene, or a cherished family moment.
Accepted mediums include painting, drawing, photography, digital art, and mixed media.
Awards
Awards for finalists and overall winners include:
- Annual South Dakota State Park Pass
- VIP invitation to the Youth Visions & Voices Showcase at the Journey Museum on May 8, 2026
- One-night lodging at a Ramkota Companies hotel and a $50 gas card
- Overall Winners also receives an outdoor gear package from Scheels and a $100 Go Outdoors SD gift card
- Classroom teachers who submit entries will also receive an Annual South Dakota State Park Pass
Important Dates (Both Contests)
Entry Deadline: March 17, 2026
Finalists Announced: April 17, 2026
Awards Ceremony & Showcase: May 8, 2026 at the Journey Museum in Rapid City
Contest Details
Submission guidelines, contest details, and contest flyers can be found at:
Essay Contest – www.parkswildlifefoundation.o
Art Contest – www.parkswildlifefoundation.o
Contact:
South Dakota Parks & Wildlife Foundation
assistance@parkswildlifefound
www.parkswildlifefoundation.o
About the South Dakota Parks & Wildlife Foundation
The South Dakota Parks & Wildlife Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to
enhancing and preserving South Dakota’s parks, wildlife, and outdoor spaces through
private-public partnerships. For more than 40 years, the Foundation has worked with
individuals, families, and businesses to support projects that protect natural resources
and improve outdoor experiences for generations to come.
