Conata – Conata, South Dakota - Atlas Obscura
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Conata

Conata, South Dakota

A ghost town now swarming with dozens of prairie dogs.  

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Water Tower footings still remain along the abandoned Milwaukee Road Railway. They sit about 500 feet to the east of the building foundation. srh2767 (Atlas Obscura User)
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Conata is an old railroad town. It’s unclear when the last resident departed, but the post office has been closed since 1954.

All that remains of the town’s buildings are simply flooded basements. There are various ruinous remains of foundation across the former town, and at least one sidewalk. Scattered farming implements, plus automotive and other assortments of debris contribute to the eerie atmosphere. As does the beautiful terrain of the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands.

The ruins of Conata are positively swarming with prairie dogs and it’s not uncommon for visitors to see them roaming and barking. 

Know Before You Go

Conata can be found at the southern end of Conata Basin Road, about a mile north of the southern terminus with South Dakota Highway 44. The ruins may be found on both sides of the road.

ghost towns abandoned ruins
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Kevin OKeeffe
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Kevin OKeeffe
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Published
June 27, 2022
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