About Us

Essential Info

Admission Free Memorial Day to Labor Day

Open 7 days a week 9am-7pm

Physical Address: 1301 Sheridan Lake Rd Rapid City SD 57702

Mailing Address: PO Box 9196 Rapid City SD 57709

If you have questions, comments or concerns please contact us

Email: mallory@storybookisland.com

Phone: 605-342-6357

Our Team

Our amazing team,

Mallory Hook - Executive Director

Walt Denett Maintenance Supervisor

Peter Swiftbird, Maintenance Assistant

Alyssa Tanner - Outreach Coordinator

work full-time to take care of the parks upkeep, raising funds to keep the park Free for the summer season.

30 Summer Staffers - Ages 14 and up. Work part time to facilitate the fun and magic in the summertime.

Community Impact

Educational Programs: Storybook Island hosts educational events and workshops that support literacy and learning.
Family Events: We organize family-friendly events that bring the community together, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Inclusivity: Our park is accessible to children of all abilities, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
Economic Impact: By attracting visitors to the area, Storybook Island contributes to the local economy, supporting nearby businesses and creating job opportunities.

How it all started

A Man and his Vision

Storybook Island was founded in 1959 by Merle Gunderson and the Rapid City Rotary Clubs. We have been in operation for 65 years and we have always been free admission in the summer.

Storybook Island was established in 1959 with the dream of creating a magical place where children and families could experience the wonders of imagination and creativity without financial barriers. Over the years, our park has grown to become a cherished community landmark,

welcoming over 250,000 visitors annually.

Our park features a variety of story-themed attractions, interactive exhibits, and educational programs designed to engage and inspire young minds. Through partnerships with local schools and organizations, we provide enriching experiences that promote literacy, creativity, and social development.