Regional Demographics
GEOGRAPHY & ECONOMY
Big Springs Baptist Church (BSBC) is a historically strong country church that is situated 45 minutes south of Sioux Falls, SD, and 45 minutes north of Sioux City, IA. The church’s reach is a 25 to 30-mile radius with attendees primarily coming from four counties; Union and Lincoln counties in South Dakota, and Plymouth and Sioux counties in Iowa. The one thing these counties have in common is that they all border on the Big Sioux River, which literally runs down the center of BSBC's area of reach. Due to the proximity to this river, BSBC is located in the heart of some of South Dakota’s richest and most historic farmland. Though not the only jobs, agriculture and agriculturally connected businesses make up the primary livelihood for the majority of people living in this region.
COMMUNITIES & POPULATION
There are five primary communities from which BSBC attendees come. The first and closest is the town of Alcester, SD. With a growing population of over 800, Alcester increasingly serves as bedroom community to the cities of Sioux Falls (pop. 180,000), and Sioux City (pop. 85,000). Beyond Alcester is the community of Beresford, SD, a resourcing town of over 2,000 that is situated on Interstate 29. The next community is the town of Hawarden, IA. With over 2,500 residents, Hawarden is just 10 minutes from BSBC and offers a wide array of services as well as some nice restaurants. To the south of Hawarden, is the community of Akron, IA, a rather quaint town of 1,500 people that boasts a historic downtown and a literal opera house for community plays. Finally, the 2,000 residents of Elk Point, SD, represents the southwest reach of BSBC. Located on Interstate 29, the growing community of Elk Point sits only 20 minutes north of Sioux City, IA. All of these communities are proud of their schools and maintain a strong value of family. Though located in the country, Big Springs Baptist Church has a geographic reach that is home to nearly 20,000 people.
SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT
Though all of the above communities have their own special shopping opportunities, larger shopping centers and supply options are located in the cities of Sioux Falls , Sioux City and Vermillion. If you are into outdoor activities, then you’ll enjoy the legendary hunting and fishing opportunities that South Dakota offers. Besides this, BSBC is centrally located near the Newton Hills, Union Grove, and Ponca State Parks, which boast many activities, hiking trails, camping, water sports, and more. Those involved in team sports will enjoy the many school and private sports leagues offered in the area. Beyond this, BSBC is located within 45 minutes of collegiate sporting events at the University of South Dakota as well as professional basketball, baseball, hockey, and arena football events in Sioux Falls and Sioux City. One of the more unique opportunities that the Big Springs' region offers is the Big Sioux River, which has become one of the Heartland’s best canoeing and kayaking rivers.