Best camping in Cow Creek Recreation Area, SD 2025

Discover Cow Creek Recreation Area's natural splendor.

The best camping in Cow Creek Recreation Area, SD

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cow Creek Recreation Area adventure.

Popular ways to camp

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Top-rated campgrounds

Camp Marrowbone

34mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · La Plant, SD

Our rustic camp property allows you to explore the Cheyenne River Reservation while staying in our humble property. Enjoy the most beautiful sunsets over Stove Creek Bay, part of the Missouri River. Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Oahe on the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Reservation, Camp Marrowbone offers an immersive outdoor experience like no other. This remote and scenic retreat is perfect for tent campers seeking adventure, solitude, and a deep connection to nature.

Fischers Lilly Park

15mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 1 site · Fort Pierre, SD

Fischers Lilly Park is a unique campground steeped in history, marking the site of the significant encounter between Lewis and Clark’s Corp of Discovery and the Teton Lakota nation. This pivotal moment in the Lewis and Clark Expedition was characterized by differing trade goals and a lack of communication, leading to an armed confrontation that nearly ended their journey. Located at the mouth of the Bad River, this historic site was officially designated as part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail by the National Park Service in June 2004. The park features 12 RV pads equipped with electrical outlets, available on a first-come, first-served basis, along with a convenient dump station. Each pad offers water and electricity for a fee of $22 per night. Families can enjoy the playground equipment and a picnic shelter, which includes electrical outlets and restrooms. For outdoor enthusiasts, a boat ramp is accessible from the park along the Bad River, with an additional ramp off Deadwood Street connected by a newly constructed walking bridge. Fischers Lilly Park is not only a place to camp but also a gateway to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Pets

River View RV Park

15mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 1 site · Fort Pierre, SD

Discover the unique charm of The River View RV Park, established in 2012, where visitors to Fort Pierre, SD can experience a modern campground that perfectly blends comfort with the natural beauty of South Dakota. Our campground offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional tent sites and full-service RV camper sites, ensuring that every guest finds their ideal outdoor retreat. Our friendly staff is ready to assist you with inquiries about pricing and available sites for the season. We are here to answer your questions and provide valuable information about local activities and attractions, ensuring you make the most of your stay. At The River View RV Park, you can enjoy full-service RV hookups, allowing you to relax and recharge while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Missouri River is just a stone's throw away, and Lake Oahe is a short drive, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration. Experience exceptional camping at unbeatable prices. Our affordable RV and tent sites provide breathtaking views and easy access to nature. Located just a short drive from Pierre, the state capital, and the Missouri River, our park is the perfect base for your outdoor escapades. Our dedicated staff is always available to guide you toward exciting activities and answer any questions you may have. Key Features of Our RV Park: -

Pets

Bobs Resort Inc

32mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 23 sites · Gettysburg, SD

Bob’s Resort stands out as a unique destination that captures the essence of a simpler, more relaxed lifestyle. Perched on a scenic bluff with breathtaking views of Lake Oahe along the majestic Missouri River, this resort is designed for those seeking both tranquility and adventure. Whether you’re here for exhilarating pheasant hunting, leisurely boating, or peaceful fishing, Bob’s Resort offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our commitment to exceptional customer service, a hallmark since 1960, ensures that your stay will be both enjoyable and memorable. We believe that a great experience will bring you back, and we encourage you to share your adventures with friends. Come and discover the charm of Bob’s Resort, where relaxation meets fun in a stunning natural setting.

Pets

Toilets

Cooking equipment

South Whitlock Resort

33mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 23 sites · Gettysburg, SD

Nestled in a picturesque landscape, South Whitlock Resort stands out as a unique family-owned campground with a rich heritage that spans five generations. Originally a family ranch, this beautiful resort has transformed over the years while maintaining its deep-rooted connection to the land. Although the original ranch buildings have been replaced, the campground is adorned with rows of trees, lovingly planted and nurtured by Pat's parents, which serve as a stunning natural backdrop. In 1982, Pat and Randy Harer took a bold step by purchasing the land from her family, embarking on an exciting journey to develop the resort. Their initial efforts included constructing a convenience store and collaborating with skilled contractors to establish essential sewer, water, and electrical infrastructure. This groundwork allowed for the placement of mobile homes in the heart of a scenic pasture, creating a vibrant summer community for guests. The resort's offerings expanded further with the relocation of a motel unit to the site, enhancing the accommodations available to visitors. The following year, they acquired a supper club from Grenville, SD, which was carefully moved to its current location, providing an additional dining option for guests. Over the years, South Whitlock Resort has continued to evolve, with ongoing improvements to the land and facilities, welcoming new generations of families and guests to create

Pets

Toilets

Cooking equipment

Other options near Cow Creek Recreation Area

Fischers Lilly Park

15mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 1 site · Fort Pierre, SD

Fischers Lilly Park is a unique campground steeped in history, marking the site of the significant encounter between Lewis and Clark’s Corp of Discovery and the Teton Lakota nation. This pivotal moment in the Lewis and Clark Expedition was characterized by differing trade goals and a lack of communication, leading to an armed confrontation that nearly ended their journey. Located at the mouth of the Bad River, this historic site was officially designated as part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail by the National Park Service in June 2004. The park features 12 RV pads equipped with electrical outlets, available on a first-come, first-served basis, along with a convenient dump station. Each pad offers water and electricity for a fee of $22 per night. Families can enjoy the playground equipment and a picnic shelter, which includes electrical outlets and restrooms. For outdoor enthusiasts, a boat ramp is accessible from the park along the Bad River, with an additional ramp off Deadwood Street connected by a newly constructed walking bridge. Fischers Lilly Park is not only a place to camp but also a gateway to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Pets

River View RV Park

15mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 1 site · Fort Pierre, SD

Discover the unique charm of The River View RV Park, established in 2012, where visitors to Fort Pierre, SD can experience a modern campground that perfectly blends comfort with the natural beauty of South Dakota. Our campground offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional tent sites and full-service RV camper sites, ensuring that every guest finds their ideal outdoor retreat. Our friendly staff is ready to assist you with inquiries about pricing and available sites for the season. We are here to answer your questions and provide valuable information about local activities and attractions, ensuring you make the most of your stay. At The River View RV Park, you can enjoy full-service RV hookups, allowing you to relax and recharge while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Missouri River is just a stone's throw away, and Lake Oahe is a short drive, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration. Experience exceptional camping at unbeatable prices. Our affordable RV and tent sites provide breathtaking views and easy access to nature. Located just a short drive from Pierre, the state capital, and the Missouri River, our park is the perfect base for your outdoor escapades. Our dedicated staff is always available to guide you toward exciting activities and answer any questions you may have. Key Features of Our RV Park: -

Pets

Bobs Resort Inc

32mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 23 sites · Gettysburg, SD

Bob’s Resort stands out as a unique destination that captures the essence of a simpler, more relaxed lifestyle. Perched on a scenic bluff with breathtaking views of Lake Oahe along the majestic Missouri River, this resort is designed for those seeking both tranquility and adventure. Whether you’re here for exhilarating pheasant hunting, leisurely boating, or peaceful fishing, Bob’s Resort offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our commitment to exceptional customer service, a hallmark since 1960, ensures that your stay will be both enjoyable and memorable. We believe that a great experience will bring you back, and we encourage you to share your adventures with friends. Come and discover the charm of Bob’s Resort, where relaxation meets fun in a stunning natural setting.

Pets

Toilets

Cooking equipment

South Whitlock Resort

33mi from Cow Creek Recreation Area · 23 sites · Gettysburg, SD

Nestled in a picturesque landscape, South Whitlock Resort stands out as a unique family-owned campground with a rich heritage that spans five generations. Originally a family ranch, this beautiful resort has transformed over the years while maintaining its deep-rooted connection to the land. Although the original ranch buildings have been replaced, the campground is adorned with rows of trees, lovingly planted and nurtured by Pat's parents, which serve as a stunning natural backdrop. In 1982, Pat and Randy Harer took a bold step by purchasing the land from her family, embarking on an exciting journey to develop the resort. Their initial efforts included constructing a convenience store and collaborating with skilled contractors to establish essential sewer, water, and electrical infrastructure. This groundwork allowed for the placement of mobile homes in the heart of a scenic pasture, creating a vibrant summer community for guests. The resort's offerings expanded further with the relocation of a motel unit to the site, enhancing the accommodations available to visitors. The following year, they acquired a supper club from Grenville, SD, which was carefully moved to its current location, providing an additional dining option for guests. Over the years, South Whitlock Resort has continued to evolve, with ongoing improvements to the land and facilities, welcoming new generations of families and guests to create

Pets

Toilets

Cooking equipment

The best camping in Cow Creek Recreation Area, SD guide

Overview

About

Lewis and Clark were among the first modern-day explorers to stumble upon this area, and now you can follow in their footsteps. The main show over at the Cow Creek Recreation Area is undoubtedly the Oahe Reservoir, where tons of fun awaits. With more than 2,000 miles of shoreline, you know it’s gonna be a fantastic time. The waters are clear and inviting, and they beckon you in for boating, sailing, fishing, water sports, and even diving. Back at camp, you can even snag a shoreline site with a surprising amount of privacy. Plus, the sunsets are unreal, so get that camera ready.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Cow Creek Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer months can be quite warm, making early morning or late evening the best times for outdoor activities. Winters are quieter but can be cold, so ensure you're prepared if visiting during this season.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season to ensure a comfortable visit.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your trip accordingly.
Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for a safe and enjoyable day.
Stay informed about any trail closures or area restrictions that may be in effect during your visit.
Accessibility varies across the park, so inquire ahead if you require special accommodations.

Be the first to review

Share your experience here to help other campers.