Fishing, swimming, and shoreline access draw campers to this free, dispersed site on Lake Francis Case near Pickstown, South Dakota. The area sits right along the water, and multiple reviewers confirm that proximity to the river is the defining feature of the experience. No designated sites exist here. Campers pick their own spot, and the flat terrain makes setup straightforward.
Finding the entrance takes some attention. There are no signs marking the turnoff, and several campers report missing it, especially after dark. The access road is a short gravel track that most vehicles handle without trouble. Once in, the site can hold several parties at once, though some visits have drawn only a single group. Highway noise carries from a distance, but reviewers consistently note it does not significantly disrupt the stay. "Fine overnight stop along the river," as Kimberly K. puts it, captures the general tone.
Amenities are minimal: a pit toilet is on site, cell service is available, and pets are welcome. The campground is ADA accessible and alcohol is permitted. The season runs May 1 through October 31. Campers who want more developed facilities can look at nearby options like West Chamberlain or Cedar Shore Resort. This spot works best for self-sufficient campers comfortable with dispersed, no-frills overnight stops close to the water.
Map & DirectionsCOE Lake Francis Case West Chamberlain Recreation Area is located in South Dakota near Chamberlain
Directions
Located 2 mi NW via US-16 & CR.
Address
399 Powerhouse Rd
Pickstown, SD 57367
Coordinates
43.83313292 N
99.34185967 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/12/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/14/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/12/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/12/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/14/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/12/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
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.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 57 min from Sioux Falls, SD
- 2 hrs 48 min from Rapid City, SD
- 3 hrs from Sioux City, IA
- 3 hrs 59 min from Grand Island, NE











