Last Updated: May 25, 2026
From the Badlands, we drove five hours to Larchwood, Iowa, to be close to Sioux Falls — we needed an RV air conditioner replaced and were due for our annual physician visits.
Larchwood, Iowa
It was only about 100 yards to the South Dakota border and 20 miles to Sioux Falls. Other than the casino, the area was miles upon miles of hay and corn fields. Larchwood itself has a population of only about 900 people.
Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort
Grand Falls turned out to be a hidden gem among the highway-adjacent RV parks around Sioux Falls. The casino opened in 2011, and the resort has since added an 18-hole golf course. There was a very nice pool and spa, and live music on weekends. There were hardly any trees — just open farmland — and the wind blew at least 20 miles per hour every day. Our neighbor’s awning ripped off in the wind, and we even had tornado alerts, though no one seemed to mind. We enjoyed the restaurants and a relatively smoke-free environment. To celebrate its seventh anniversary, the casino put on a fireworks display. Jake seemed to like it — he growled and barked at the big booms while wagging his tail the whole time.
The RV park sat right next to the driving range. After 6 p.m. there was no one out there, so Jake relished being off leash while we practiced our putting. The RV park had 50-amp service, 60-psi water pressure, and sewer, but no internet — the Verizon signal, however, was great. We made some new friends during our stay.
Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls had just about everything one could need, including a Costco. Even during rush hour there was no real traffic, and it was easy to get around the city.
SculptureWalk
Every year, artists exhibit their work along the streets of downtown Sioux Falls for everyone to enjoy and vote on. SculptureWalk is the largest annual exhibit of public sculptures in the world, with dozens of pieces displayed from the Washington Pavilion to Falls Park; visitors can vote for a People’s Choice Award each summer.
It was fun strolling among all the art and exploring the shops and restaurants that downtown Sioux Falls has to offer.
Practical Tips for Visiting Larchwood and Sioux Falls
The lay of the land. Larchwood sits in far northwestern Iowa, about 20 miles and a 20-minute drive from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Basing yourself here puts the city’s airport, shopping, and medical care within easy reach while keeping you in quieter, more open countryside.
Staying at Grand Falls Casino. The resort’s RV park has full hookups and sits beside the golf practice area — a calmer, more scenic alternative to the highway-adjacent RV parks closer to Sioux Falls. Be prepared for open farmland with little shade and steady wind, and secure your awning.
Downtown Sioux Falls. Park downtown and walk the SculptureWalk, a free, year-round outdoor art exhibit, then browse the local shops and restaurants. Be sure to also visit Falls Park, where the Big Sioux River tumbles over the pink quartzite ledges that give the city its name.
Weather. Summer on the northern plains brings strong wind and the occasional tornado watch. Keep an eye on local weather alerts and know where the nearest shelter is, especially when traveling in an RV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Larchwood, Iowa?
Larchwood is a small town of about 900 people in far northwestern Iowa, roughly 20 miles southeast of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and just a short distance from the state line.
Is Grand Falls Casino a good RV stop?
Yes. The Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort RV park offers full hookups in a quiet, open setting next to the golf practice area — a relaxed alternative to the busier highway RV parks around Sioux Falls, with restaurants, a pool, and live music on site.
What is SculptureWalk Sioux Falls?
SculptureWalk is a free, year-round outdoor exhibit of public sculptures throughout downtown Sioux Falls — the largest annual exhibit of its kind in the world. The pieces rotate each year, and visitors can vote for a People’s Choice Award.
What is there to do in Sioux Falls?
Highlights include the downtown SculptureWalk, Falls Park with its namesake waterfalls on the Big Sioux River, and a walkable downtown full of shops and restaurants. The city also has full services, making it an easy and convenient stop.
Should you visit Falls Park?
Yes. Falls Park is the free city park where the Big Sioux River drops over pink quartzite rock — the falls the city is named for. It is the signature sight in Sioux Falls and an easy walk or short drive from downtown.
