The best camping in Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, SD

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Discover Lake Vermillion's serene waters and vibrant wildlife.  

The best camping in Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, SD

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Uncle B's Produce Farm

2. Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%
(1236)
5mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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 Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

3. The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

100%
(42)
23mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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
Downhome Country Farm

5. Downhome Country Farm

100%
(19)
25mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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
The Larson Campground

6. The Larson Campground

100%
(12)
30mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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
River Road Campground Luverne

9. River Road Campground Luverne

92%
(548)
50mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Luverne, MN
This is a newer campground to Rock County near Luverne, MN. This property is known as the "boy scouts" by the locals. When we were kids we spent time on this property riding bike, horses, and exploring. We have turned this 13 acre property into 22 site campground that we are excited to share with you. Check out Sweet Retreat a house for rent. Call 605-254-5450 for details. (also available on Airbnb/VRBO) (Sweet Retreat, 5 bedrooms, 2 bath) Nestled in a bed of trees just 2 miles from I-90 and 1/4 mile South of the Luverne City Park. This campground has 12 sites with rural water and 20,30&50 amp electric at every site. Dump Station. 8 Full Hook Up Sites (Sewer, Water, Electric) Two small ponds and shade trees. Wifi. Shower House/Bathrooms. Campers can enjoy the quiet place to relax and enjoy nature and wildlife, a perfect place for bird watching. We also have a paved bike trial that connects to the campground that leads to miles of trials around Luverne and out to the State park.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Country Cabin

11. Country Cabin

14mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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)
28mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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
Tower Campground

17. Tower Campground

21mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 153 sites · Soux Falls, SD
Tower Campground stands out as the only year-round urban campground in Sioux Falls, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking convenience and accessibility to local attractions. Situated just minutes away from the city's major points of interest, our campground offers an ideal base for exploring the vibrant surroundings. With over 120 available sites, we cater to a variety of camping preferences, from cozy tent spots to accommodations for larger RVs. Our rates are flexible, offering daily, weekly, and monthly options to suit your stay. Each site is equipped with essential amenities, including water, electricity, cable TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. In addition to our well-maintained sites, Tower Campground features convenient on-site facilities such as showers and laundry services. We are also pet-friendly, welcoming your furry companions to join in on the adventure. Whether you're looking to relax or explore the great outdoors, Tower Campground is the perfect choice for your Sioux Falls getaway.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
W.H. Lyon Fairground

18. W.H. Lyon Fairground

21mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 1 site · Sioux Falls, SD
The W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds stands out as a versatile venue that not only hosts the annual Sioux Empire Fair each August but also serves as a prime location for various events throughout the year. Managed by the Sioux Empire Fair Association, Inc., this expansive fairgrounds offers a unique blend of entertainment and community engagement, making it a hub for local gatherings and celebrations. In addition to its event hosting capabilities, the fairgrounds provide ample camping and stalling options for visitors. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or attending a special event, you can enjoy the convenience of on-site accommodations. For more information about camping and stalling availability, feel free to reach out at 605-367-7178. The W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds is not just about events; it’s also surrounded by a wealth of nearby attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore local parks, hiking trails, and swimming holes, while those looking for dining and shopping options will find a variety of restaurants and shops just a short drive away. This combination of features makes the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds a unique destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Pets
Jellystone Park Sioux Falls

19. Jellystone Park Sioux Falls

27mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 1 site · Brandon, SD
Discover the charm of our award-winning, family-owned campground and RV park in South Dakota, where over 25 years of experience has created a unique blend of family-friendly camping and entertainment in the Sioux Falls area. Nestled in a serene setting that offers the perfect balance of city convenience and country tranquility, our campground is an ideal destination for creating lasting memories with family and friends—complete with your favorite Pic-A-Nic Baskets! Our expansive grounds feature a variety of amenities and planned activities tailored to suit every vacation style. Whether you prefer cozy cabin rentals, spacious RV sites, or traditional tent camping, you’ll find comfortable accommodations and first-rate facilities that enhance your outdoor experience. Don’t forget to explore our onsite corn maze, open from late August through October, and check out our blog for helpful camping tips. With nearby attractions like natural swimming holes, outdoor adventures, restaurants, and shops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We invite you to make your reservation for upcoming weekends and holidays soon, as our most sought-after spots fill up quickly! Thank you for considering our campground, and we look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable getaway!
Pets
Toilets

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

Camper favorites near Lake Vermillion Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%
(1236)
5mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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 Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

100%
(42)
23mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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

Downhome Country Farm

100%
(19)
25mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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

The Larson Campground

100%
(12)
30mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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

River Road Campground Luverne

92%
(548)
50mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Luverne, MN
This is a newer campground to Rock County near Luverne, MN. This property is known as the "boy scouts" by the locals. When we were kids we spent time on this property riding bike, horses, and exploring. We have turned this 13 acre property into 22 site campground that we are excited to share with you. Check out Sweet Retreat a house for rent. Call 605-254-5450 for details. (also available on Airbnb/VRBO) (Sweet Retreat, 5 bedrooms, 2 bath) Nestled in a bed of trees just 2 miles from I-90 and 1/4 mile South of the Luverne City Park. This campground has 12 sites with rural water and 20,30&50 amp electric at every site. Dump Station. 8 Full Hook Up Sites (Sewer, Water, Electric) Two small ponds and shade trees. Wifi. Shower House/Bathrooms. Campers can enjoy the quiet place to relax and enjoy nature and wildlife, a perfect place for bird watching. We also have a paved bike trial that connects to the campground that leads to miles of trials around Luverne and out to the State park.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

Country Cabin

14mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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)
28mi from Lake Vermillion Recreation Area · 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 Vermillion Recreation Area

The best camping in Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, SD guide

Overview

About

Even though Lake Vermillion Recreation Area was named after the vivid red quartzite found along the banks, the waters found here are ultra-blue, pristine, and gorgeous. That may be why so many people flock here to swim, boat on, fish around, and just downright enjoy this 512 acre reservoir! This is a paradise right around the corner, located only 27 miles from Sioux Falls. A paradise where you can camp, hike, fish, hunt, boat, and watch for birds. Sounds nice right about now, huh? Don’t miss out on hiking the Otter Stream Trail, camping on one of the spacious sites, or bringing friends for a rustic-cabin-kinda weekend. You’ll be nearby to a smattering number of outdoor attractions all around the gorgeously green southeastern South Dakota. All there is to do now is pack your bags, grab some s’mores, and set the GPS!

When to go

The ideal time to visit Lake Vermillion Recreation Area is during the warm summer months, from June to August, when the park is in full bloom and the lake's waters invite for a refreshing dip. Conversely, the winter season can be quite harsh, with the park often blanketed in snow, limiting access to certain areas and activities.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience amid the park's changing conditions.
  • Be mindful of park wildlife; maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
  • Accessibility varies across different areas of the park; some trails may not be suitable for all visitors.
  • Remember to pack out all your trash and leave no trace to preserve the park's natural beauty.
  • For any inquiries, call customer service at 605.223.7660.
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