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Roads

Dispersed Camping

COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area

COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area, near Pickstown, South Dakota, offers a laid-back spot for those looking to unwind by the water. This location is perfect for a peaceful retreat, with a secluded vibe that many visitors appreciate.

The area is right next to the river, providing a serene backdrop for your stay. Campers have enjoyed the tranquility, with one noting, “We were the only ones there when we went,” highlighting the chance for some quality quiet time. While there are no designated sites or amenities like picnic tables or showers, the natural setting makes it a great place for boondocking and enjoying the outdoors.

If you’re up for a little adventure, keep your eyes peeled for the gravel road leading in, as some have mentioned it can be tricky to find without clear signage. The beautiful sunrises and the sound of waves lapping at the shore add to the charm, making it a lovely spot for a night under the stars. Just remember, this isn’t a place for big rigs or those looking for a full-service campground experience.

Whether you’re passing through or planning a short stay, COE Lake Francis Case is a solid choice for a night of relaxation by the water.

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Location

COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area is located in South Dakota

Detail location of campground

Directions

Located 2 mi NW via US-16 & CR.

Address

399 Powerhouse Rd
Pickstown, SD 57367

Coordinates

43.83313292 N
99.34185967 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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5 Stars

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1 Star

17%
50%
17%
0%
17%

3.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 27, 2024

No Overnight Camping

Went to the dirt road indicated. Signs said no overnight camping very clearly

Sitena
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 26, 2024

Nice, Peaceful Site

Close to the water. Secluded. We were the only ones there when we went. Pretty chill, relaxing, quiet area. There are no signs, so it’s easy to miss. Just a little gravel road.

SiteJust a little ways down from the resort.
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area by Kasey , June 26, 2024
  • Review photo of COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area by Kasey , June 26, 2024
Reviewed Sep. 14, 2023

Nice place for the night

It was a peaceful, flat place to stay for a night. We got to see a beautiful sunrise while listening to the waves lap on the shore. You could still hear the highway off in the distance but it really wasn’t bad.

SiteUnmarked spot just north of the boat ramp
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area by Kyle B., September 14, 2023
Reviewed Aug. 5, 2023

Secluded Spot

Fine overnight stop along the river. It was difficult to find in the dark. We didn't see any signs

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Oct. 15, 2022

Nice stop over

Just passing through and saw the Chamberlain Rec Area. No signage so pulled to the back next to the river for the night to relax.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area by Chris N., October 15, 2022
Reviewed Nov. 8, 2021

It was okay!

Camping by the river was nice! This is a good spot to boondock, it’s free, theres a pit toilet, and the road to get in isn’t bad! There were about 5 other parties when I camped here, some noise from others and traffic. It wasn’t bad, good for one night!

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area by Celine K., November 8, 2021
  • Review photo of COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area by Celine K., November 8, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area?

    COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area is located at 1394 feet.

  • Does COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at COE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is unknown.