The agency conducts public outdoor education programs, typically focusing on hunting and boating safety.

The GFP Commission serves as the advocate and liaison between the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks and its customers and partners.

Regional offices are located in Aberdeen, Chamberlain, Ft. Pierre, Huron, Mobridge, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Watertown, and Webster.

Game species managed by the GFP in South Dakota include: pronghorn, bighorn sheep, white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, mountain goat, Mountain lion, bison, turkey, common pheasant, prairie grouse, sage grouse, ruffed grouse, partridge, mourning dove, cottontail rabbit, common snipe, American crow, quail, tree squirrel, and various waterfowl including duck, Canada goose, and snow goose.

The GFP also regulates the Trapping of furbearing animals such as coyote, raccoon, beaver, muskrat, bobcats, mink and red fox within the state.

They enforce laws and conduct investigations related to hunting, fishing, boating, and other outdoor recreation activities.

The GFP offers a variety of educational resources including curriculum supplements, outdoor skills and safety training, education materials (field guides, learning kits), and a variety of other resources (DNR[clarification needed] for kids, grants).