Storybook Island, a free children's park in Rapid City, hosts a week-long summer theater day camp in partnership with the Black Hills Playhouse. Campers from kindergarten through 8th grade play drama games, learn stage fundamentals and acting, and explore costume and set design, culminating in a family performance at the park's theater. No prior theater experience is needed.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Storybook Island directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Rachel NelsonWe could spend hours here! There are so many things to do throughout the park to keep your kids entertained. Every time we go we find a different spot to spend lots of time playing at. The indoor carousel is super fun as well. We can't go there without riding it!
★★★★★Jennifer IrvingThe Christmas lights display at Storybook are always a fun experience. This year we happen to catch is opening night and as the snow was falling which was beautiful. All the extras are affordable like the train ride, the merry-go-round, and the lighted toys. I would recommend going about 30 minutes after doors open so you won't have to wait in line. Bundle up and check out with the kids.
★★★★★Emily AllisonI loved this place so much! It is a must see if you are in the Rapids City area and have kids. It is set up very nicely, well maintained and free. My kids were not the only ones that had fun; I thoroughly enjoyed myself! I only have a few suggestions: An Alice in Wonderland piece would have been neat to see, and a bigger magnet selection in the gift shop (I love magnets!). Visit.Have Fun.Donate!
★★★★★Kristen “Wander & Nosh Mama” WermerskirchenI absolutely adored Storybook Island — it was a dream come true for my kids! From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere feels straight out of a storybook. You walk through castle gates over a charming drawbridge, passing a sparkling pond with ducks, whimsical water features, and playful pretend animals. Rapunzel hangs her golden hair from the castle tower, with a prince climbing up to meet her — such a magical and enchanting welcome! There is so much space for kids to run and play among adorable storybook-themed displays. The train ride was a highlight, and at just $3 per rider, it was very reasonable, especially since admission to the park is free. The beautiful carousel inside a covered pavilion felt absolutely precious, and the friendly staff helped the kids hop on their horses with care. Disney-style storybook music plays throughout the park, adding to the fairytale wonder. We loved the playful drinking fountains shaped like a lion and a hippopotamus, the pirate ship with its little pond and bridge, and the playground for kids 5 and under — all clean, safe, and spread out beautifully. Shady trees and plenty of benches made it easy to relax and take it all in. Each bench had a placard honoring its donor, and there were beautiful engraved stones along the pathways with names of people who contributed — a lovely reminder that the park is funded through donations and community generosity. Storybook Island is operated by the Rotary Club of Rapid City and welcomes donations to help keep the magic going. There’s also a cute little gift shop packed with tempting souvenirs, and an ice cream shop on site that wasn’t open yet when we arrived but probably operates later in the day. Overall, Storybook Island is pure childhood magic brought to life — whimsical, charming, and absolutely worth a visit. Highly recommend!
★★★★★Courtney RichardsThis was such a nice add to our trip! And best of all it’s free!! My kids 8 and 6 loved it, thank you!! If you want to ride the train it’s $2 and the carousel is $3 each ride.