Lake Oahe spans approximately 231 miles through South Dakota and North Dakota with over 2,250 miles of shoreline. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with summer temperatures regularly reaching 85-95°F during peak camping season. The shoreline features a mix of cottonwood groves and open grasslands, creating varied camping environments depending on location.
What to do
Fishing access points: Campground 3 at Oahe Downstream Recreation Area offers prime fishing locations where "Hubby could walk out of the camper and fish" according to camper Liz, who appreciated the direct water access from their site.
Beach activities: Farm Island State Recreation Area provides a maintained swimming beach with sand shoreline. Visitor Chris J. noted it's "an oasis in the middle of nothing," while Daniel K. mentioned "kayak rentals, playground and beach area" making it ideal for water activities.
Wildlife viewing: The winter months offer exceptional eagle watching opportunities near the dam. Shannon G. reported from Oahe Downstream Recreation Area: "Love watching the bald eagles. There's lots of trees and shade," making it a good spot for birders year-round.
Disc golf: Several dog friendly campgrounds at Lake Oahe offer recreational facilities beyond water activities. N I. mentioned that Oahe Downstream Recreation Area includes "disc golf, archery, biking, birding, boating, fishing, geocaching, horseshoes, lawn games" providing multiple activity options.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: East Whitlock Recreation Area offers primitive camping directly on the beach. Charles C. noted that "People were camping with their rigs right on the beach which was nice. There were a few picnic tables and small pits or grills."
Clean facilities: The bathhouses throughout pet-friendly Lake Oahe campgrounds receive consistent praise. At Farm Island Recreation Area, Dexter E. found that "shower and bathrooms are impeccable," while another camper called them "hands down best shower/bathroom facilities I've ever seen in a state park."
Waterfront access: Little Bend RV Park provides scenic river views. Colin O. shared: "The views of the Missouri River are absolutely stunning. You can also access the river via a 10 minute drive down to the docks and there is a restaurant very close by."
Privacy between sites: Many Lake Oahe pet-accommodating campgrounds offer well-spaced campsites. Laura K. appreciated that Farm Island has "very roomy sites so you're not right on top of each other," noting they "camped along the river with fishing/swimming access right from the campsite."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most Lake Oahe dog friendly campgrounds require advance booking through their online system or by phone. Shari G. explained that at Oahe Downstream, "All reservations must be done through their online system or over the phone, although there is a campground office open during the day."
Fee structure: Okobojo Point Recreation Area charges separate entrance and camping fees. Brandon F. detailed: "Four dollar gate fee, and $13.79 per night camp fee." Audrey F. added that "Odd amount $16.91 for 1 night made for necessary change. Wish they'd make it whole dollars like Federal campgrounds."
Seasonal challenges: Summer brings insects at many waterfront sites. Liz warned about Oahe Downstream: "Only downside which couldn't be helped are all the flies. Take a fly swatter and fly traps/tape. Days later and down the road we are still finding flies in our camper!"
Off-season access: While many amenities remain available year-round, some areas have seasonal closures. At Oahe Downstream, N I. noted: "This campground is open year round but the campgrounds are close to camping November 15 through the last Friday in March. Bald eagles are winter roosting and can be easily disturbed."
Tips for camping with families
Beach recreation: Swan Creek Recreation Area West Campground provides water access for children. Bill M. described it as a "Nice little campground mainly geared towards fishing" with "clean and well taken care of" facilities including "free showers that are well cared for with very hot water."
Rental equipment: Several Lake Oahe dog-welcoming campgrounds offer equipment rentals for family activities. Kathy P. noted that Farm Island "has rentals galore! Handbikes, canoes, paddleboards, so much fun!!! Plus a well maintained beach and facilities and an awesome staff!"
Playground access: For families with children and dogs, look for sites near recreational facilities. Daniel K. pointed out that Farm Island provides a "great for kids. Kayak rentals. Playground and beach area. Bike paths," though he cautioned about "quite a few bugs here."
Shade considerations: When camping with pets during summer, shade availability varies between campgrounds. Dexter E. observed at Farm Island that "shade is a commodity very hard to find. However, in about fifteen years ample trees have been planted that this problem should be corrected."
Tips from RVers
Electric access: Many Lake Oahe pet-friendly campgrounds offer electric-only sites. Shannon G. shared that their Oahe Downstream site costs "$19/day for Electric and we usually get good cell service here," making it suitable for extended stays.
Site selection: RVers with dogs should consider waterfront sites for direct access. Shannon G. recommended: "The best spots are 194-196. They are back in sites and we have a large window on the back of our camper and get to look at the beautiful river."
Water availability: Farm Island campsites lack direct water hookups. Laura K. noted: "Always haul our water - good as none on site. Dump station and water in park, but not at sites," which requires planning for RVers traveling with pets who need regular water access.
