Beach Camping in South Dakota: Best Beach Campsites 2026

South Dakota's headline acts need little introduction. This sparsely populated state is home to the most visited national park in the Midwest—Badlands National Park—and one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States—Mount Rushmore. From the craggy peaks of the Black Hills to the vast backcountry of the Great Plains and the banks of the mighty Missouri River, outdoor adventures are easy to find in South Dakota. The main camping season runs from May through October, with midsummer temperatures peaking in the mid-80s, while winters are snowy, especially in the north.

Top-rated campgrounds near South Dakota

Diamond Lake Campground

1. Diamond Lake Campground

33 sites · Porterfield, WI

Diamond Lake Campground stands out for its diverse range of accommodations and convenient amenities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With 71 unique sites, guests can choose from 2 cozy cabins, 1 charming yurt, 3 pull-through sites, 24 weekend sites, 37 seasonal sites, and a spacious group site. For those seeking a more rustic experience, secluded tenting areas are also available. The campground features a well-stocked camp store, providing essential RV supplies and limited grocery items for any forgotten necessities. Located near various services, guests will find gas stations, banks, a bicycle shop, a shopping mall, places of worship, and pharmacies just a short drive away. Cabin amenities enhance the comfort of your stay, including heating, air conditioning, ceiling fans, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee pots, toasters, and limited tableware. The small cabin accommodates up to 5 guests, while the larger cabin can host 7. While pets are welcome in RV sites, they must be leashed and cleaned up after at all times. Please note that pets are not permitted on or near the beaches, in any buildings, or around inflatables. Enjoy a memorable camping experience at Diamond Lake Campground, where adventure and relaxation.

Wylie Park Campground

2. Wylie Park Campground

15 sites · Aberdeen, SD

Nestled within a stunning 200-acre landscape, this campground stands out for its diverse array of attractions that promise endless family enjoyment. With 99 well-equipped campsites featuring pads, water, and electric hookups—44 of which also include sewer connections—visitors can experience both comfort and convenience in a natural setting. This beloved destination caters to guests of all ages, offering a whimsical play area inspired by cherished nursery rhymes. In addition to this enchanting feature, families can explore a delightful zoo, enjoy a round of mini-golf, or take advantage of paddle boat and canoe rentals for a fun-filled day on the water. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this park provides a perfect blend of amenities and activities, making it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Black Hills National Forest

3. Black Hills National Forest

98%

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337 sites · South Dakota

Beyond Mount Rushmore, explore 1.2 million acres of forested mountains.

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Big Sioux Recreation Area

4. Big Sioux Recreation Area

100%

(2)

52 sites · Brandon, South Dakota

Discover the natural charm of Big Sioux Recreation Area.

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Richmond Lake Recreation Area

5. Richmond Lake Recreation Area

100%

(2)

25 sites · Aberdeen, South Dakota

Richmond Lake Recreation Area: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Angostura Recreation Area

6. Angostura Recreation Area

100%

(2)

203 sites · Hot Springs, South Dakota

Angostura Recreation Area: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

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Indian Creek Recreation Area

7. Indian Creek Recreation Area

100%

(1)

128 sites · Mobridge, South Dakota

Discover Indian Creek Recreation Area's natural splendor.

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Lake Herman State Park

8. Lake Herman State Park

100%

(1)

72 sites · Madison, South Dakota

Discover Lake Herman State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

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Lake Louise Recreation Area

9. Lake Louise Recreation Area

100%

(1)

42 sites · Ree Heights, South Dakota

Discover Lake Louise Recreation Area's natural splendor and outdoor fun.

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Lake Poinsett Recreation Area

10. Lake Poinsett Recreation Area

100%

(1)

114 sites · Lake Poinsett, South Dakota

Discover Lake Poinsett's serene waters and outdoor fun.

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Mina Lake Recreation Area

11. Mina Lake Recreation Area

100%

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37 sites · Wetonka, South Dakota

Discover Mina Lake's serene waters and vibrant wildlife.

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North Wheeler Recreation Area

12. North Wheeler Recreation Area

100%

(1)

25 sites · Geddes, South Dakota

North Wheeler Recreation Area: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

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South Dakota's headline acts need little introduction. This sparsely populated state is home to the most visited national park in the Midwest—Badlands National Park—and one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States—Mount Rushmore. From the craggy peaks of the Black Hills to the vast backcountry of the Great Plains and the banks of the mighty Missouri River, outdoor adventures are easy to find in South Dakota. The main camping season runs from May through October, with midsummer temperatures peaking in the mid-80s, while winters are snowy, especially in the north.

Top-rated campgrounds near South Dakota

Diamond Lake Campground

1. Diamond Lake Campground

(1)

25 sites · Geddes, South Dakota

North Wheeler Recreation Area: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best beach camping in South Dakota guide

Where to go

Badlands and the Black Hills

Swathes of forested mountains blanket the southwestern corner of South Dakota, where a road trip to Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial is likely top of your to-do list. Just west of the four presidents, the Black Hills National Forest has 450 miles of hiking, biking, OHV, and horseback riding trails, plus 30 campgrounds, some with full hookups. To the east, hike beneath layer-cake cliffs and towering canyons in Badlands National Park, then camp out beneath the stars—backcountry camping is permitted throughout the park.

Great Lakes

The Missouri River flows through the heart of South Dakota, where you'll find the four man-made "great lakes"—Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, Lake Francis Case, and Lewis and Clark Lake. Campgrounds and RV parks pepper the shores, and all four lakes are popular spots for walleye and smallmouth bass fishing. Bring your own boat, paddle the lakes on a kayak, or rent a jet ski.

Glacial Lakes

The sweeping prairies and glacial lakes of northeastern South Dakota are little-explored, but you’re never far from a lakeside campground. With its chain of eight glacial lakes, Oakwood Lakes State Park affords plenty of opportunities for swimming, paddling, and ice fishing, depending on the time of year. Further south, Lake Poinsett has a sandy beach, two camping areas, and lakefront cabins.

Southeast South Dakota

The state's southeast corner is a patchwork of lakes, rivers, and vineyards, interspersed with country towns. Set up camp at Lake Vermillion and hit the water to swim, canoe, or paddleboard; enjoy hiking or rock climbing around the unique pink quartzite cliffs of Palisades State Park; or go wine tasting in South Dakota wine country. A photo stop at Sioux Falls is a must for visitors to the namesake city, but for camping, head to the nearby Big Sioux Recreation Area, a scenic stopover along the Jay Heath Canoe & Kayak Trail.