Bowdle, South Dakota is another town that came into being as the railroad pushed its way towards the Missouri River. Bowdle was laid out in 1886 and named for a banker who represented the railroad’s interests in this region. Bowdle in the 1880’s was an important sheep and wool shipping point. As German settlers moved into the area a more diversified farming became more important.

Today Bowdle is a quiet homey prairie town on the Yellowstone Trail that has maintained a fairly steady population over the years. A piece of South Dakota trivia concerns the Bowdle water tower. The municipal water tower is the tallest in South Dakota, a sight that can be seen for several miles away.

If you are a pheasant hunter in South Dakota in the fall, you might want to check out Bowdle’s annual Pheasant Phest. There will be great food, games and prizes and lots and lots of friendly people that will be glad to meet you. Bowdle has convenience stores and gas, locally owned restaurant and bar, campsites and lodging for the traveler looking for a travel stop along South Dakota's highway 12.

Picture your next travel stop in Bowdle, South Dakota!