The best camping in Lake Herman State Park, SD

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100% (1)

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

The best camping in Lake Herman State Park, SD

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

3. The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

100%
(42)
28mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Tent · Baltic, SD
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge is located on 21 acres along the Big Sioux River, a place of quiet and natural beauty intended to foster social interaction and creative pursuits between artists and community in SE South Dakota, 10 miles north of Sioux Falls. Property updates at The Retreat happen constantly; we get better and better! The 100′ x 40′ main hall is perfect for larger workshops, concerts, poetry readings, small theatrical productions, classes, and other social gatherings and rentals in April through November. The A-Frame is a unique space for recitals, presentations, meetings, or a sleeping space for up to 6 people. There is a Woodworking Shop; Artist Studio; screened-in outdoor patio; playground; huge bonfire pit; and room to camp or explore. The Retreat is a space to work in quiet solitude or to collaborate on creative projects with others. The setting is inspiring; possibilities for your stay are endless. Learn more about this land: This site is a sandy spot along the Big Sioux River on a ridge well above the water line. View out over the river to a farm on the opposite bank. Spend your time with wild turkeys, geese, and an occasional deer. Site is on the far edge of an artist retreat, but still private. Spend time hiking the river bank or gravel country roads, fish in the river, take part in any Retreat activities if available, photography opportunities, enjoy an evening campfire under the stars.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Uncle B's Produce Farm

4. Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%
(1236)
32mi from Lake Herman State Park · 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...
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
The Larson Campground

5. The Larson Campground

100%
(12)
33mi from Lake Herman State Park · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Garretson, SD
Welcome to the Larson Homestead! Our 13.5 acres has a lovely view of the pasture, creek, and surrounding farms. We have pet goats, cows, chickens, dogs, cats, and kittens! Depending on when you come you could witness baby chicks hatching or baby goats being born or bottled. The goats are super friendly and love to be petted or fed. You can wander around the pasture and creek during your stay. There are many RV spots with the power along with a pool! Firewood is available on site. We reserve the right to prohibit fires if we feel it’s too dry or windy. A picnic shelter is available to use for assistance if extra bedding or space is needed. The picnic shelter is equipped with a loft along with refrigeration, stove, oven, microwave, soon, shower, and a toilet. Next to the picnic shelter is a large area to have a bonfire where you can grill food or just relax around and enjoy the scenery! Along with your stay, we provide being big boards and bags for your entertainment along with a stereo for music. If your family is traveling with four wheelers or dirt bikes we have a large area to explore along with a man-made track that is on the edge of the yard. We are located 11 miles north off of interstate 90. We are 15 miles from Sioux Falls And 6 miles from Garretson (where you have the opportunity to visit Devils Gulch, Split Rock Park, or Palisades State Park!) We have a large area for children to run and play including three different places in the sandbox. Our animals would love to meet you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night
Downhome Country Farm

6. Downhome Country Farm

100%
(19)
48mi from Lake Herman State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lennox, SD
Downhome Country Farm is 10 acres of woods and prairie with a large garden, chickens, wild turkeys, guinea fowl, mules, horses, a dog, and bee hives in the pasture. We have two restored vintage campers that sleep 4 people and multiple tent sites. The bathroom and solar shower are shared by all guests. There are 2 sites for self-contained RV's with 20A electric available and water at some sites. 2 tent sites are available until the hay season (August) then the pasture is wide open tent camping. Horse boarding and camping available too. Each site can request individual fire rings. We have an outdoor community area that has a large fire pit, covered shelter and a woodfired pizza oven that will be in use on some weekends and by request. Local and national touring musicians are known to provide pop up private concerts some weekends and impromptu jam sessions. On occasion, we have outdoor movies and morning yoga along with great activities in the surrounding community too. Or just hang out in the hammocks and soak in that downhome country feeling. Come and enjoy the great outdoors on our farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Country Cabin

10. Country Cabin

36mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Tea, SD
Beautiful yet very peaceful property with over four acres of land near wild water west, blue haven and wall lake. Six bedroom country cabin home has lots of room for gatherings inside with two fireplaces, outside has a wrap around deck also with three stall horse barn located on the property. Perfect for a family getaway or construction workers! We have farm animals on the property for your family to enjoy such as horses, goats, ducks and chickens. The space We have six rooms with two bathrooms. it can sleep up to fifteen people. we also have farm animals for your family to enjoy such as horses, goats ducks & chickens. Guest access Guests are welcome to explore and have a great time! Please be responsible around all the animals as they pay their own space as well and need their privacy! Please keep all gates closed, thank you! Other things to note Firewood is available free for our guests We have life size games available as well. Tetherball, Corn hole and life size Jenga along with Horse shoes & croquet
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$119
 / night
Foggy Sunrise

12. Roost at the Coop Camping

100%
(3)
39mi from Lake Herman State Park · 4 sites · Tents · Brandon, SD
Welcome to Fruit of the Coop! This tranquil 7-acre property is a working farm located just outside of Sioux Falls, in the watershed of the Big Sioux River. Our farm features rolling hills and groves of cottonwood and oak trees, replete with wild turkeys, deer and coyotes. Take advantage of the short walking trail, beautiful sunrises, and the gorgeous views from the fire pit. The property is on a dirt road in a development of homes, mostly on 1-2 acre parcels, located between the town of Brandon and the city of Sioux Falls. You are welcome to walk the neighborhood. Guests have access to 2 marked parking spaces on the right side of the front, paved driveway. All guests have access to the grounds. Please do not enter the farm house or any buildings on the property. You are welcome to appreciate the short, self-guided hiking trail on the farm. The trailhead can be found in the SE corner of the back yard, where the pasture fence meets the treeline. Follow the blue trail markers to the Adirondack chairs, where you can sit with a cup of coffee and enjoy the view. If you’re feeling adventurous, the trail does circle around the entire 7-acre property, ending up near the front driveway. Please note that you will have to climb over or through a triple-strand smooth wire fence at the end of the hike and you may encounter horses on the 2nd half of the trail. 2 free parking spaces on site to be shared with the Airbnb guests. If these are full, please park along the sides of the driveway so a vehicle can get through the center and please do not block any garage doors on the property. You will come across chickens, cats, turkeys, horses and dogs while on your stay. Please treat them with respect and do not chase or feed any of the animals. The horses enjoy being petted from across the fence, but please do not enter into the horse corral or pasture. Our 2 dogs roam freely on the property, as do our 2 cats. Please do not allow any of the animals inside your tent. Even though we love animals of all kinds, we cannot allow guests to bring pets of their own. We want your stay at the farm to be top notch! We will be on site during your stay, so please do not hesitate to message us on the app or call or text us at (605) 366-1219 for any assistance you may need.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
Royal River Casino and Hotel

14. Royal River Casino and Hotel

19mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Flandreau, SD
Discover the unique charm of the Royal River Casino's RV Park and Campground, where tranquility meets excitement. Nestled in a serene setting, our campground offers a peaceful retreat during the day, allowing guests to unwind and connect with nature. As the sun sets, the vibrant atmosphere of our casino comes alive, providing an exhilarating contrast to your daytime relaxation. Conveniently located just off Interstate 29 and a short drive east on Highway 32, our RV Park & Campground serves as an ideal stopover for travelers. With spacious sites and a variety of amenities, including clean restrooms, picnic areas, and access to nearby attractions, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay. Explore the natural beauty surrounding the campground, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming in nearby holes. After a day of adventure, indulge in delicious meals at local restaurants or browse charming shops in the area. At Royal River Casino's RV Park and Campground, you’ll experience the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making your visit truly unforgettable.
Pets
Flandreau City Park

15. Flandreau City Park

19mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Flandreau, SD
Nestled along the scenic banks of the Big Sioux River, just one mile east of Flandreau, Flandreau City Park stands out as a unique recreational haven. Spanning approximately fifteen acres, this park offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. One of the park's standout features is the historic dancing pavilion, known as Japanese Gardens. Built in 1919, this charming facility boasts beautiful hardwood floors and is one of the last of its kind in the region. In recognition of its cultural significance, Japanese Gardens was added to the National Historical Preservation Society register in 1995, making it a must-see for history buffs. Flandreau City Park is not just about history; it is a vibrant gathering spot that includes baseball and softball fields, camping facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Whether you're looking to enjoy a game, set up camp, or simply relax in nature, this park provides a welcoming atmosphere for all. With its blend of recreational opportunities and historical charm, Flandreau City Park is a delightful destination for both locals and visitors.
Pets
Dell Rapids Campground

17. Dell Rapids Campground

26mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Dell Rapids, SD
Discover the unique charm of our campground, nestled at the headwaters of the Dells channel that inspired the name Dell Rapids. Located on the south side of the Big Sioux River and just west of South Garfield Avenue, this serene park offers a rustic camping experience within the city limits. Our campground features 29 well-equipped campsites, each with individual electric panels. Sites 1-5 and 16-29 also provide access to water and sewer facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Each campsite is furnished with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. In addition to the campsites, visitors can enjoy a modern shower house and a playground for family fun. The campground is conveniently connected to a newly installed recreational trail, which includes a pedestrian bridge that spans the Big Sioux River, making it easy to explore the natural beauty of the area. For those looking to venture beyond the campground, you'll find other scenic city parks nearby, as well as the historic downtown Dell Rapids, all within walking distance. Our campsites are affordably priced at $30 per night for electric and water only (sites 6-15) and $40 per night for electric, water, and sewer (sites 1-5 & 16-29). Please
Pets
Sexauer Park Campground

18. Sexauer Park Campground

28mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Brookings, SD
Sexauer Park stands out as the only campground in Brookings, making it a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This well-equipped campground features 18 paved pads that are perfect for trailers, RVs, campers, and similar vehicles, with four designated pull-through sites for added convenience. For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, a spacious grassy area is available for tent camping. The campground offers a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Guests can enjoy electrical hookups, a dump station, and picnic tables for outdoor dining. Families will appreciate the playground, while those looking to stay active can take advantage of the sand volleyball court. Additionally, potable water and restrooms with showers are provided for your comfort. Whether you're exploring nearby natural features, swimming holes, or engaging in outdoor activities, Sexauer Park serves as an ideal base for your adventures. With its unique offerings and convenient amenities, this campground is a perfect choice for a memorable getaway in Brookings.
Pets
Lake Carthage

19. Lake Carthage

30mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Carthage, SD
Discover the unique charm of Lake Carthage Park, a well-equipped campground that seamlessly blends natural beauty with modern amenities. Situated along the serene shores of the expansive 1,300-acre Lake Carthage, this park is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat. The campground boasts 13 electrical campsites alongside several primitive tent sites, catering to a variety of camping preferences. For water enthusiasts, the park features a convenient boat ramp and a sandy beach area, providing easy access to the lake for fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying a day on the water. The scenic lakeside campsites offer breathtaking views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Just a short drive away in the town of Carthage, visitors can take advantage of essential amenities such as a dump station and a shower house, ensuring a comfortable stay. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore or exploring the tranquil waters, Lake Carthage Park is a beloved destination for anglers and outdoor lovers alike, promising an unforgettable experience in nature.
Pets
ingalls homestead

20. ingalls homestead

32mi from Lake Herman State Park · 22 sites · De Smet, SD
De Smet offers a unique blend of charm and adventure that goes far beyond the famous Ingalls Homestead. This quaint town, while small, is packed with a variety of attractions, dining options, accommodations, and outdoor experiences that cater to every visitor's needs. As you explore De Smet, you'll discover an array of restaurants serving delicious local cuisine, cozy motels, inviting bed and breakfasts, and well-equipped campgrounds that provide a perfect base for your adventures. Each lodging option offers its own unique features, ensuring a comfortable stay. In addition to its welcoming accommodations, De Smet is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming. Nearby swimming holes and parks invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to relax or seek adventure, De Smet has something for everyone. The information provided in the sections below will help you plan an unforgettable visit to this charming town.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
100% (1)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Herman State Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds

The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

100%
(42)
28mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Tent · Baltic, SD
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge is located on 21 acres along the Big Sioux River, a place of quiet and natural beauty intended to foster social interaction and creative pursuits between artists and community in SE South Dakota, 10 miles north of Sioux Falls. Property updates at The Retreat happen constantly; we get better and better! The 100′ x 40′ main hall is perfect for larger workshops, concerts, poetry readings, small theatrical productions, classes, and other social gatherings and rentals in April through November. The A-Frame is a unique space for recitals, presentations, meetings, or a sleeping space for up to 6 people. There is a Woodworking Shop; Artist Studio; screened-in outdoor patio; playground; huge bonfire pit; and room to camp or explore. The Retreat is a space to work in quiet solitude or to collaborate on creative projects with others. The setting is inspiring; possibilities for your stay are endless. Learn more about this land: This site is a sandy spot along the Big Sioux River on a ridge well above the water line. View out over the river to a farm on the opposite bank. Spend your time with wild turkeys, geese, and an occasional deer. Site is on the far edge of an artist retreat, but still private. Spend time hiking the river bank or gravel country roads, fish in the river, take part in any Retreat activities if available, photography opportunities, enjoy an evening campfire under the stars.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%
(1236)
32mi from Lake Herman State Park · 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...
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night

The Larson Campground

100%
(12)
33mi from Lake Herman State Park · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Garretson, SD
Welcome to the Larson Homestead! Our 13.5 acres has a lovely view of the pasture, creek, and surrounding farms. We have pet goats, cows, chickens, dogs, cats, and kittens! Depending on when you come you could witness baby chicks hatching or baby goats being born or bottled. The goats are super friendly and love to be petted or fed. You can wander around the pasture and creek during your stay. There are many RV spots with the power along with a pool! Firewood is available on site. We reserve the right to prohibit fires if we feel it’s too dry or windy. A picnic shelter is available to use for assistance if extra bedding or space is needed. The picnic shelter is equipped with a loft along with refrigeration, stove, oven, microwave, soon, shower, and a toilet. Next to the picnic shelter is a large area to have a bonfire where you can grill food or just relax around and enjoy the scenery! Along with your stay, we provide being big boards and bags for your entertainment along with a stereo for music. If your family is traveling with four wheelers or dirt bikes we have a large area to explore along with a man-made track that is on the edge of the yard. We are located 11 miles north off of interstate 90. We are 15 miles from Sioux Falls And 6 miles from Garretson (where you have the opportunity to visit Devils Gulch, Split Rock Park, or Palisades State Park!) We have a large area for children to run and play including three different places in the sandbox. Our animals would love to meet you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night

Downhome Country Farm

100%
(19)
48mi from Lake Herman State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lennox, SD
Downhome Country Farm is 10 acres of woods and prairie with a large garden, chickens, wild turkeys, guinea fowl, mules, horses, a dog, and bee hives in the pasture. We have two restored vintage campers that sleep 4 people and multiple tent sites. The bathroom and solar shower are shared by all guests. There are 2 sites for self-contained RV's with 20A electric available and water at some sites. 2 tent sites are available until the hay season (August) then the pasture is wide open tent camping. Horse boarding and camping available too. Each site can request individual fire rings. We have an outdoor community area that has a large fire pit, covered shelter and a woodfired pizza oven that will be in use on some weekends and by request. Local and national touring musicians are known to provide pop up private concerts some weekends and impromptu jam sessions. On occasion, we have outdoor movies and morning yoga along with great activities in the surrounding community too. Or just hang out in the hammocks and soak in that downhome country feeling. Come and enjoy the great outdoors on our farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

Country Cabin

36mi from Lake Herman State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Tea, SD
Beautiful yet very peaceful property with over four acres of land near wild water west, blue haven and wall lake. Six bedroom country cabin home has lots of room for gatherings inside with two fireplaces, outside has a wrap around deck also with three stall horse barn located on the property. Perfect for a family getaway or construction workers! We have farm animals on the property for your family to enjoy such as horses, goats, ducks and chickens. The space We have six rooms with two bathrooms. it can sleep up to fifteen people. we also have farm animals for your family to enjoy such as horses, goats ducks & chickens. Guest access Guests are welcome to explore and have a great time! Please be responsible around all the animals as they pay their own space as well and need their privacy! Please keep all gates closed, thank you! Other things to note Firewood is available free for our guests We have life size games available as well. Tetherball, Corn hole and life size Jenga along with Horse shoes & croquet
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$119
 / night

Roost at the Coop Camping

100%
(3)
39mi from Lake Herman State Park · 4 sites · Tents · Brandon, SD
Welcome to Fruit of the Coop! This tranquil 7-acre property is a working farm located just outside of Sioux Falls, in the watershed of the Big Sioux River. Our farm features rolling hills and groves of cottonwood and oak trees, replete with wild turkeys, deer and coyotes. Take advantage of the short walking trail, beautiful sunrises, and the gorgeous views from the fire pit. The property is on a dirt road in a development of homes, mostly on 1-2 acre parcels, located between the town of Brandon and the city of Sioux Falls. You are welcome to walk the neighborhood. Guests have access to 2 marked parking spaces on the right side of the front, paved driveway. All guests have access to the grounds. Please do not enter the farm house or any buildings on the property. You are welcome to appreciate the short, self-guided hiking trail on the farm. The trailhead can be found in the SE corner of the back yard, where the pasture fence meets the treeline. Follow the blue trail markers to the Adirondack chairs, where you can sit with a cup of coffee and enjoy the view. If you’re feeling adventurous, the trail does circle around the entire 7-acre property, ending up near the front driveway. Please note that you will have to climb over or through a triple-strand smooth wire fence at the end of the hike and you may encounter horses on the 2nd half of the trail. 2 free parking spaces on site to be shared with the Airbnb guests. If these are full, please park along the sides of the driveway so a vehicle can get through the center and please do not block any garage doors on the property. You will come across chickens, cats, turkeys, horses and dogs while on your stay. Please treat them with respect and do not chase or feed any of the animals. The horses enjoy being petted from across the fence, but please do not enter into the horse corral or pasture. Our 2 dogs roam freely on the property, as do our 2 cats. Please do not allow any of the animals inside your tent. Even though we love animals of all kinds, we cannot allow guests to bring pets of their own. We want your stay at the farm to be top notch! We will be on site during your stay, so please do not hesitate to message us on the app or call or text us at (605) 366-1219 for any assistance you may need.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night

Other options near Lake Herman State Park

The best camping in Lake Herman State Park, SD guide

Overview

About

Lest you feel like an intrepid explorer stumbling upon uncharted territory, remember this: Lake Herman has been a popular camping area for hundreds of years. That doesn’t make it any less awesome, though! It’s an oldie, and a goodie, so come on out. The state park is situated on a peninsula, so you’ll snag some fantastic views of the lake. Seeing all of that beauty will inevitably make you want to get on the water, so get ready for some boating and fishing fun. On dry land, have a wander and check out the different varieties of wildlife that like to hang out in the native oak woods and tall prairie grasses. In the winter, the park morphs into a fantastic cross country skiing area.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Lake Herman State Park is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when the park's full splendor is on display. Winter can be harsh, with limited access and activities due to snow and ice.

Know before you go

  • Check weather conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, to plan your activities accordingly.
  • Remember to pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for a comfortable outing.
  • Stay informed about any trail closures or special advisories by contacting the park's customer service.
  • Accessibility options are available; inquire ahead for specific needs.
100%
1 ratings · 0 reviews