Sica Hollow State Park near Sisseton, South Dakota, has a long-standing reputation for being haunted, stemming from its name and Native American legends. The name "Sica" comes from the Dakota word meaning "evil" or "bad". Reports of unexplained phenomena have persisted for centuries, frightening both the Native Americans who first used the land and later European settlers. According to Dakota creation stories, the area was the site of a great battle between spirits. One legend tells of a malevolent hand that arrived among peaceful tribes in the area, teaching young men to kill. The Great Spirit's messenger, the Thunderer, intervened to remove the hand and restore peace, but the ominous reputation of the hollow remained. Native American legends say the iron-rich, reddish water that bubbles from the springs is the blood of the spirits who died in the battle. While the color is caused by minerals, the legend contributes to the area's eerie lore. Campers and visitors have reported hearing mysterious phantom drumbeats, war cries, and chanting, which some believe are the sounds of the spiritual forces from the ancient battle.