The best pets off leash campgrounds in South Dakota

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.

92% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

92% (1.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cheyenne River Bottom

94%

(49)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Wall, SD

This ranch is the home of children's book author Cowgirl Annie. This property is a working Ranch. Some of the campsites are in an abandoned gravel pit so you will be parking on a sandy gravel base. I like to let my guests decide where they want to park. I may have to move guests to a different site than the one they booked depending on what is happening on the ranch or the weather. There are cottonwood stands close by that you can hike through to the river. A wide variety of wildlife live in this area, so no telling what you may see or hear. You will have a big area to yourselves. I have tried to plan areas so you won't be disturbed by other campers. I do not groom hiking trails. You will be at one with nature. You may want to bring bug spray, sometimes the mosquitos and horseflies are bad. Wall Drug and the Badlands National Park are about a twenty-minute drive. Mount Rushmore is about an hour and 15 minutes.

2. Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%

(1236)

12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Monroe, SD

Awarded South Dakota's best Hip Camp 4 times. Uncle B's farm is a small 11 acre hobby farm with a large vegetable garden, chickens, peafowl, guinea fowl, turkeys, dogs, and cats. There is an old quarried stone railroad bridge and a few short walking trails around the pond. The pond is at the back of the property where I have 6 dry camp sites listed as Uncle B's farm for tents or self contained RV's. All sites have partial to full shade and most have mature trees that will work for a hammock or tensile tent. All of the campsites have a firepit, some with cooking grates and all sites have a picnic table. The "shower shack" is shared by all guests and has 2 separate 3/4 baths with all modern plumbing. There is also a basic outdoor kitchen with a few portable grills as well as a sink with modern plumbing. Available at Uncle B's RV Camper site I have 3 RV sites with water and 30 Amp electrical hookups. My "Ready Set Camp" listing is a dome tent set up and furnished with 4 cots, table, and lamp as well as a match ready fire. The Barn loft apartment is a studio apartment with a small galley kitchen and private bath. The Hippie Bus is new for the 2025 season and offers a trip back in time. Uncle B's farm has been voted Best Hip Camp to see in South Dakota for the 4th time and placed 2nd in the nation in 2022. Come see why...

3. Diamond A Cattle Ranch

98%

(98)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Pukwana, SD

On our ranch is the original 1906 Ashley Homestead Shanty. We have a 1905 rural schoolhouse that is fully furnished for our guests to explore. A 1940s tourist cabin with two bedrooms (full-sized bed and twin-sized bed) is available for rent. We also have for rent, a new tiny house with a queen bed and a pull-out sofa. A new two-bathroom shower house is now available for our guests' use. There are seven electric only pedestals for your RV or camper. A camp store has Bad River Jerky and Pemmican that our daughter produces. There is also local honey and homemade jellies (chokecherry, mulberry, strawberry, wild grape). Our cowgirl and cowboy grandkids have their homemade beaded necklaces for sale.

4. Bear Butte Overlook

1 site · Tent, RV · Sturgis, SD

Bear Butte Overlook – RV Group Camping with a View Looking for the perfect Rally basecamp or peaceful Black Hills escape? Welcome to Bear Butte Overlook, a private 20-acre property on the Murray Family Homestead — just 5 minutes from downtown Sturgis. Set on a scenic ridge with panoramic views of Bear Butte and the surrounding valley, this group-friendly site offers space for up to 3 RVs on a graveled cul-de-sac. It’s ideal for small groups who want to stay together, enjoy the view, and unwind around a fire after a day of riding or exploring. 🛻 RV site details: • Group rental only – one booking includes all 3 spots • Two spots with 110, 30 & 50 amp hookups • One spot with 50 amp only • Boondocking-style (no water or sewer) 🔥 Shared fire pit 🌄 Epic sunrises and sunsets over Bear Butte 📍 Easy access to Sturgis, Spearfish Canyon, Deadwood, and more Quiet, private, and close to everything — Bear Butte Overlook is where your next adventure begins.

5. Easton’s Castle/O-TE-LA Camp

86%

(70)

25 sites · Tents, RVs · Aberdeen , SD

Camp where L FBaum found the inspiration for The Emerald City of OZ. Campsites with an acre each, magical firepits in the forest circling the castle. Numerous deer owls pheasants and songbirds. Wireless free on the porch, tents for rent, porta potties. $3 bathrooms w showers just 2 miles away. Learn more about this land: Pitch camp in one of 25 sites in the 20 acre forest surrounding magical Easton’s castle, the inspiration for the Wizard of OZ. L Frank Baum loved this place and you will too. A small forest. One acre campsites. You will be alone in Nature. Room for RV to park w limited electrical and wireless around castle. There are no RV electrical or sewer hookups. /p>

6. Serenity Fields

87%

(52)

20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Kimball, SD

Originally settled by immigrants homesteading westward, Dakota Prairie Lodge now conducts hunting and fishing adventures and dabbles in agriculture. Far from population centers, the peacefulness of this rural retreat is a delight.

7. The Wilderness

99%

(124)

1 site · Tent, RV · West Pennington, SD

Learn more about this land:Tired of the city? Want to get away from people? This 80 acre site is perfect for getting away from civilization and experiencing nature as it was meant to be. Hike in the beautiful Black Hills or make the short trip to Lake Pactola for boating or fishing. If relaxing isn't your speed, take a bike ride on the Michelson Trail or travel one of the many off road trails nearby.

8. Luxury RV Canyon Retreat

95%

(55)

1 site · RV · Lead, SD

The property is one of the few rentals allowed in Spearfish Canyon. A NEW Post and Beam Pavilion for parking and picnics! An outdoor table and chairs under pavilion available for usage. Also NEW--horseshoe pits in meadow for your enjoyment. It sits besides an historic 95-year old log cabin. A guest house, Couples Canyon Retreat, sleeps 3, is also available for rent. Contact owner. Learn more about this land: All paved road to your private luxury concrete RV pad sitting at the entrance of beautiful Spearfish Canyon. Convenient location to all sites in SD Black Hills including Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish and one hour drive to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. Walking distance to a trout pond for fishing and Cheyenne Crossing for a delicious meal. Hiking and off-roading trails galore. Go to sleep hearing Upper Spearfish Creek across the road, with mountain views, deer and smell of fresh pine trees. Lead Country Club Golf course close by. New Post and Beam Pavilion available for parking and picnics.

9. Harris Hideout

98%

(26)

1 site · RV · Chamberlain, SD

Learn more about this land: Campers will park on a secondary garage concrete pad on our property. It is secluded and walking distance to the Missouri River, where you can take in nature anyway you would like! Fish, swim, paddleboard, kayak, it’s all here! We have 50 and 30 amp, along with 110 available. In addition, we have house accommodations of our walkout basement which includes a full sized bed and queen bed, full bathroom, full kitchen - all furnished, washer and dryer. This option is not always available and is of an extra charge. Contact Neoma or Gary for details.

10. Tippy Toe Acres

83%

(3)

4 sites · RVs · Trent, SD

We purchased the property for use as a honey bee ranch. We no long keep bees, but we still love to go out to the country, and garden, and just enjoy the peace and quiet. Learn more about this land: Please, don't make a reservation, and then invite a bunch of people to join you. Your guests aren't my guests, but can be. Just a field near the Big Sioux River. Amenities will be added, as demand warrants. Lots of peace and quiet. Still close to Dell Rapids SD, for gas, bait, groceries, etc. We believe in equality for all, Top Freedom Friendly!

11. Steinke Ranch Buffalo

94%

(36)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Colome, SD

Learn more about this land: Welcome Steinke Ranch! We offer rolling hills covered with beautiful trees. We have 8 different sites available alongside 3 fishing lakes within 10 miles. Find a shooting range near by and a plenty of deer, turkey, buffalo, and pheasant, only 2 1/2 miles off of highway! Come here and enjoy ultimate peace and quiet!.........have a Camp Fire...Play Horseshoes....Cowboy putting green.....Skeet shooting....Buffalo meat ...Buffalo snacks....Wisconsin Cheese......100% Pure Maple Syrup from Vermont.....Buffalo toys......Decals.....

12. Nirvana SD

100%

(2)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, SD

This property is approx 2 acres in Hot Brook Canyon on the outskirts of Hot Springs South Dakota. (not 1 mile) It has space for tent camping, small RV's and campers or Car camping. It is primitive but has Hot Brook running thru it with a nice soaking hole. Camp fires are permitted after checking the local fire warnings. A nice walk to town and the Chatauqua park along with Evans Plunge. Currently there is a circulatory water system in a small block building where you can wash dishes, take a shower if the sun has warmed the tank and a composting toilet (do not put toilet paper in it!) which I will instruct and hopefully have instructions posted. This is a choose your place and make your own fire ring for a campfire and gather your own wood but remove the fire ring when you leave. The water in the stream is good for washing and cleaning but not potable. The Chautauqua park is very close and has a restroom. There may be a camp host available but not given, they will be around. This is a primitive camping area and there are several trails and a nice soaking place in the stream. Freedom is the rule of thumb alongside respectful nature to other guests and neighbors. Noise should be kept to a minimum. There is no trash removal so take out everything you bring in. This is a Libertarian property the Rule is RESPECT for the neighbors, your fellow campers, and of course nature. Be advised I keep several vehicles and my masonry equipment as well as my bio diesel system on the site.

13. Paulson RV Park

75%

(4)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Springfield, SD

There have been a lot of people who have come through this park in the 30+ years I have been apart of it. We would like you to be added! This park used to be a full service mobile home park. There are still some trailers that remain. Each site is big enough to accommodate a double wide mobile home so even the largest RV one can bring in has lots of space to spare.

14. Refuge Hill Campsite

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, SD

So, you're planning a trip to the Black Hills? You're welcome to take refuge here at our peaceful homestead. This area is perfect for those wanting a quiet and peaceful experience that is still close to several attractions such as Crazy Horse Monument, Mount Rushmore Monument, Custer State park and Wind Cave. September has been a treat. Elk bugling all day this week during the rut. The blood moon lunar eclipse was on full display, lighting up the whole property. We can share even more activities in Custer or Hot Springs, a 25 min drive to either from our location. There are 3 RV/Van sites with power (2 include septic), and 2 more sites without power/septic (good for solar ready vehicles). Many spacious areas to set up tents for dispersed camping. There is a large gravity fed water tank for non-potable water use. You may see a few of our chickens walking around or an occasional kitten or pup. Several deer, elk, and turkey spotted on the property. On site Activities: + Half mile walking loop - featuring wild flowers, interesting rocks, and a pasture home to large elk herd. + Archery - bring your gear and prepare for your next hunt, borrow a target or BYO + Mickelson Trail - 1 mile away from the Mickelson Trail entrance! 109 mi touring trail From Deadwood to Edgemont +Frisbee Golf practice baskets - Move them to create the shots you'd like to practice. + Corn hole available + Kids Play Area - Easily viewable from camp sites (swings, jungle gym, sand area, tree house) +Star Gazing - No light pollution! Every clear night is incredible. Full moon nights are a treat. + Shooting Range - 22 Caliber or smaller at designated times/areas + EV Charging - Charge electric cars (20-50A charging) +Traveling workers - Starlink available if needed for laptop work. Notify host before check-in if you need Starlink access (minimum 4 night stay). + Dog friendly - Our 3yr old Aussie is always ready for another friend (fenced area available if needed) + Set up Hammocks +Tents, RVs, Vans If you need anything or have questions just let us know, we want this experience to be great. The number one comment we get is "I love the relaxing and peaceful vibes here".

Camper favorites in South Dakota

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tippy Toe Acres

83%

(3)

4 sites · RVs · Trent, SD

We purchased the property for use as a honey bee ranch. We no long keep bees, but we still love to go out to the country, and garden, and just enjoy the peace and quiet. Learn more about this land: Please, don't make a reservation, and then invite a bunch of people to join you. Your guests aren't my guests, but can be. Just a field near the Big Sioux River. Amenities will be added, as demand warrants. Lots of peace and quiet. Still close to Dell Rapids SD, for gas, bait, groceries, etc. We believe in equality for all, Top Freedom Friendly!

Steinke Ranch Buffalo

94%

(36)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Colome, SD

Learn more about this land: Welcome Steinke Ranch! We offer rolling hills covered with beautiful trees. We have 8 different sites available alongside 3 fishing lakes within 10 miles. Find a shooting range near by and a plenty of deer, turkey, buffalo, and pheasant, only 2 1/2 miles off of highway! Come here and enjoy ultimate peace and quiet!.........have a Camp Fire...Play Horseshoes....Cowboy putting green.....Skeet shooting....Buffalo meat ...Buffalo snacks....Wisconsin Cheese......100% Pure Maple Syrup from Vermont.....Buffalo toys......Decals.....

Nirvana SD

100%

(2)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, SD

This property is approx 2 acres in Hot Brook Canyon on the outskirts of Hot Springs South Dakota. (not 1 mile) It has space for tent camping, small RV's and campers or Car camping. It is primitive but has Hot Brook running thru it with a nice soaking hole. Camp fires are permitted after checking the local fire warnings. A nice walk to town and the Chatauqua park along with Evans Plunge. Currently there is a circulatory water system in a small block building where you can wash dishes, take a shower if the sun has warmed the tank and a composting toilet (do not put toilet paper in it!) which I will instruct and hopefully have instructions posted. This is a choose your place and make your own fire ring for a campfire and gather your own wood but remove the fire ring when you leave. The water in the stream is good for washing and cleaning but not potable. The Chautauqua park is very close and has a restroom. There may be a camp host available but not given, they will be around. This is a primitive camping area and there are several trails and a nice soaking place in the stream. Freedom is the rule of thumb alongside respectful nature to other guests and neighbors. Noise should be kept to a minimum. There is no trash removal so take out everything you bring in. This is a Libertarian property the Rule is RESPECT for the neighbors, your fellow campers, and of course nature. Be advised I keep several vehicles and my masonry equipment as well as my bio diesel system on the site.

Paulson RV Park

75%

(4)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Springfield, SD

There have been a lot of people who have come through this park in the 30+ years I have been apart of it. We would like you to be added! This park used to be a full service mobile home park. There are still some trailers that remain. Each site is big enough to accommodate a double wide mobile home so even the largest RV one can bring in has lots of space to spare.

Refuge Hill Campsite

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, SD

So, you're planning a trip to the Black Hills? You're welcome to take refuge here at our peaceful homestead. This area is perfect for those wanting a quiet and peaceful experience that is still close to several attractions such as Crazy Horse Monument, Mount Rushmore Monument, Custer State park and Wind Cave. September has been a treat. Elk bugling all day this week during the rut. The blood moon lunar eclipse was on full display, lighting up the whole property. We can share even more activities in Custer or Hot Springs, a 25 min drive to either from our location. There are 3 RV/Van sites with power (2 include septic), and 2 more sites without power/septic (good for solar ready vehicles). Many spacious areas to set up tents for dispersed camping. There is a large gravity fed water tank for non-potable water use. You may see a few of our chickens walking around or an occasional kitten or pup. Several deer, elk, and turkey spotted on the property. On site Activities: + Half mile walking loop - featuring wild flowers, interesting rocks, and a pasture home to large elk herd. + Archery - bring your gear and prepare for your next hunt, borrow a target or BYO + Mickelson Trail - 1 mile away from the Mickelson Trail entrance! 109 mi touring trail From Deadwood to Edgemont +Frisbee Golf practice baskets - Move them to create the shots you'd like to practice. + Corn hole available + Kids Play Area - Easily viewable from camp sites (swings, jungle gym, sand area, tree house) +Star Gazing - No light pollution! Every clear night is incredible. Full moon nights are a treat. + Shooting Range - 22 Caliber or smaller at designated times/areas + EV Charging - Charge electric cars (20-50A charging) +Traveling workers - Starlink available if needed for laptop work. Notify host before check-in if you need Starlink access (minimum 4 night stay). + Dog friendly - Our 3yr old Aussie is always ready for another friend (fenced area available if needed) + Set up Hammocks +Tents, RVs, Vans If you need anything or have questions just let us know, we want this experience to be great. The number one comment we get is "I love the relaxing and peaceful vibes here".

Stories from the community

K

Katie

October 2025

30 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

Uncle B was awesome. He was so accommodating and definitely went the extra mile helping us get our RV hooked up in the rain after a long day on the road. He even put together a small gift for our newborn son which was so sweet. We came to stay en route home after our wedding and he made our stay so memorable. 100/10 would recommend staying here. We will be back!

l

liz

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

I went by myself to Uncle B’s farm and he made me feel right at home! He gave me a tour of his farm and helped me start my fire each time. He is very welcoming and genuine. His facilities are clean and he has a fun trail to venture into to find little easter egg type monuments.

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

Brian was a fantastic host; friendly and helpful, although his co-hosts Frankie, Johnny, and Dibs really stole the show. (Frankie, Johnny, and Dibs are dogs.) The camp is well-maintained, far enough off main roads to feel quiet, and, for fellow solo travelers, I felt very safe there. I just used an RV site, but if you are looking for a fun “glamping” experience, the converted skoolie on property is absolutely adorable.

Dan

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

The horse went above and beyond I stay there I would hardly recommend staying there and getting the bus and we are planning on making this and annual trip out there

N

Nicole

October 2025

25 ft Class C

1 night at Diamond A Cattle Ranch

Very nice ranch. Dog and cat visited our camper. Showers were a little dirty though.

J

Jean-Claude

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Diamond A Cattle Ranch

Very peaceful. Friendly neighbors. Great little camp store. The old school house was cool to check out. Very convenient to the interstate without hearing it.

J

Jamie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

Had a wonderful overnight stay on the hippie bus. We were welcomed to the campground in the warmest way, equipped with hippie gear (peace necklaces & rose colored lenses) s'mores kit and campfire wood. The campground had very nice bathroom/shower and kitchen areas. Highly recommend Uncle B's for a relaxing camping experience.

N

Nathan

October 2025

16 ft car

With kids

2 nights at Cheyenne River Bottom

Loved the views of the night sky and the open ability to hike around the camp area. Hospitality was awesome, and was helpful with knowledge of the surrounding areas and wildlife. Would absolutely stay again

J

Jill

October 2025

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

We pulled up just as the harvest moon was rising and felt right at home! What a bonus to see Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore and Red Rocks right there (IYKYK) :) Brian was welcoming, and had such neat touches to the experience. Flush toilets and warm showers to top it all off :)

M

Mark

October 2025

38 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

Great hospitality! Greeted us as we pulled in. Clean shower and bathrooms. Lots of extras all around the property! Very cool setup! Will stay again if we pass back thru! Thanks again Brian

c

christina

October 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

Brian has spent a lot of time making his property cool for everyone who comes there. His showers were clean and he’s a very personable person and it was easy to find.

R

Ronald

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

I loved the place, friendly owner and excellent amenities. I honestly should have gotten one of the more premium spots but I'll make sure to do that when I come back. Peaceful area and not too far off the highway.

K

Katie

October 2025

27 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

We loved staying at Uncle B’s Hipcamp! We ended up being the only campers that night so we got VIP service, although I bet he treats everyone like a VIP - he’s that kind of guy. When we arrived we got a dozen farm fresh eggs and he made my daughter a bracelet making kit with her name on it! Our dog had a blast running off leash with his dogs, our daughter had so much fun exploring and getting to meet the baby kitties! My husband and I also had a great time getting to know Uncle B and getting a tour of the camp. We built a great bonfire (wood provided by Uncle B!) All around great experience, I wish we would’ve had time to stay longer!

a

anders

October 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

We had a great stay at Uncle B’s spot. The host Brian and his pack of pups and other critters gave us a very warm welcome complete with s’more fixins and a bag of treats for our dog. He’s great. A real fun and kind character that is so welcoming and committed to you enjoying your time at the farm. There’s lots of fun stuff to look at on the property and the facilities are well stocked and clean. He even invited us into his garden to pick some veggies for the road. If you’re in the area and need a peaceful and unique spot to stay, this is it.

L

Lea

September 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at The Wilderness

Beautiful spot!! We camped with a few dogs and had a wonderful time in the woods.

B

Brandy

September 2025

19 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

We stopped at Brian’s overnight, traveling from Tennessee to South Dakota, but would have stayed several days if we had the time! His place is perfect! He has put so much thought and creativity into his place! It is a gem!

Leah

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity Fields

This is a great place to get away, especially for a road trip. Having access to a bathroom and shower makes such a difference, and the facilities were so clean and so much was provided! We had a wide open space to camp, and went to explore the front area of the lodge in the morning before taking off. The lodge has a lot of information available to guest about the lodge and activities in the area. I would absolutely camp here again, and would look into the lodge rooms as well. Thank you Toni!

E

Ella

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

It’s glaringly obvious Brian really cares that his guests have a fun and enjoyable experience. The property itself is spacious and beautiful, there’s plenty of animal friends roaming about, a kitchen area, and full bathrooms with showers. We picked some peppers from the garden before leaving and took a tour of the property with Brian so he could show us some fun scenic spots he created. Campsite/amenities aside, Brian himself is a destination spot. Couldn’t recommend this place enough.

T

Thomas

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Diamond A Cattle Ranch

Beautiful and charming camp site close enough to the freeway to be convenient but far enough to be quiet. I had a wonderful time and would definitely book again.

Wes

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Wilderness

It's the wilderness for sure. This was our third stop in a drive across the country and I thought it was quite enjoyable. The place was easy to access and had plenty of places to setup camp. If you're pulling a trailer it seemed as if there was just one place big enough to turn around and I wasn't gonna gamble and drive deeper into the property to find out if that's true or not, lol. Would visit again.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash 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.