2017-01-14 05:53:47
Do you hear that? It’s the sound of fresh air and sunshine calling. Following that call may mean leaving some creature comforts behind – for a little while at least. But don't worry, if sleeping in a tent isn't your cup of tea, we have full service campgrounds with electric hookups for your camper as well as air-conditioned camping cabins. Each of these campgrounds offer a unique camping experience with lots of fresh air, sunshine, plus great scenery. 1 LEWIS & CLARK RECREATION AREA: Located near Yankton, this is one of the state’s most popular camping areas. Situated on the banks of beautiful Lewis & Clark Lake and the Missouri River, the park offers many prime waterfront campsites and camping cabins, as well as resort facilities, several trails including a paved hiking and biking trail that follows the lake shore, equestrian campground and trail, disc golf, archery range, swimming beaches, a full service marina and restaurant. 2 SPRINGFIELD RECREATION AREA: A smaller and quieter park, Springfield Recreation Area is just upriver from Lewis & Clark Recreation Area. The park is located on the shores of the Missouri National Recreational River. You’ll find great bass fishing and an adjacent golf course on bluffs overlooking the river. 3 NEWTON HILLS STATE PARK: Newton Hills, near Canton, is a wooded oasis providing shaded campsites, a lookout tower and a fully equipped lodge, perfect for family gatherings. Lake Lakota boasts fishing, swimming and canoeing. You will also find hiking and biking trails as well as cross-country ski trails for winter fun. There is also an equestrian campground and trails. 4 UNION GROVE STATE PARK: Union Grove, near Beresford, has secluded campsites and features more than 180 species of trees and shrubs which provide impressive fall colors. Wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, marmots, rabbits, fox and squirrels, thrives in the park. Over 200 species of birds visit the area, providing excellent bird watching. There is also a bridle trail and an equestrian campground with corrals. 5 PALISADES STATE PARK: Colorful quartzite cliffs along with a colorful past make Palisades, near Garretson, one of the most unique campgrounds in the area. Split Rock Creek, which flows through the park, is lined with Sioux quartzite formations that rise as much as 50 feet above the water. This park is popular with campers, hikers, rock climbers and canoers. A comfortable fully equipped lodge is perfect for family gatherings. 6 LAKE HERMAN STATE PARK: History and water-based recreation attract many campers to Lake Herman at Madison. Located on a peninsula, the park offers visitors spectacular views of Lake Herman. Melting glacial ice formed this 1,350-acre lake thousands of years ago. An 1871 log cabin built by some of the first settlers to the area has been restored. Visitors to the park can now play disc golf, hike, swim, fish, canoe or crosscountry ski. Canoe and kayak rental is available. 7 WALKER’S POINT REC AREA: Nearby Walker’s Point is tucked along the shore of Lake Madison. This small but complete park meets the needs of campers and anglers. Campsites are located near the water and many offer picturesque views of the lake. 8 BIG SIOUX REC AREA: Located near Brandon, this park lies on the banks of the Big Sioux River with easy access to Sioux Falls. It is popular among campers, canoers and archers. Other activities include disc golf course, hiking and biking, and GPS trail. In the winter, cross-country skiers and snowmobilers gather in the warming house. An 1869 homestead cabin will interest history buffs. 9 LAKE VERMILLION REC AREA: Near Canistota, Lake Vermillion is popular among fishermen, boaters, canoers, swimmers and hunters. Canoe and kayak rental is available. The park provides the ideal hunting camp with waterfowl and upland game nearby. 10STATE PARK LODGES: If you prefer all the comforts of home as you explore nature, the beautiful lodges located at Newton Hills and Palisades State Parks are just right for you. Lodges are fully equipped and perfect for larger groups. 11CLAY COUNTY PARK & CAMPGROUND: Near Vermillion, this park encompasses 34 acres of vast beautiful wilderness on the last natural stretch of the Missouri River. It offers camping, picnic shelters, boat ramp, fishing dock and a paved nature trail. 12TABOR LAKESIDE USE AREA: If you don’t mind roughing it, this remote area offers a primitive camping experience with beautiful unspoiled views of the Missouri River. For boaters and fishermen, a boat ramp and dock are available. 13ELK POINT CITY PARK CAMPGROUND: Conveniently located near Interstate 29, Elk Point’s campground is situated in the beautifully landscaped city park and includes firepits, picnic tables, shelters, electric hook-ups and a bathhouse. The city swimming pool is nearby. Privately owned campgrounds offer even more options. Check out our campground directory on page 223.
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