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Map showing campground location near Lake Preston, South Dakota
Camper submitted image from Lake Preston City Park & CampgroundView 2 Photos
CampingMap showing campground location near Lake Preston, South Dakota

Lake Preston City Park & Campground

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Lake Preston City Park & Campground operates as a municipal facility in the small town of Lake Preston, offering a self-service camping experience with cash payments collected via lockbox. The campground provides electrical hookups at all sites, with water access available at select locations featuring splitter attachments for shared use between adjacent campers.

Sites divide between back-in spots with shade coverage and pull-through options in full sun, all featuring fresh gravel surfaces. The facility includes clean restrooms with shower access, a playground area, and maintains a first-come, first-served reservation system. Campers can explore additional campsites near Lake Preston or visit nearby Thorsness Park for alternative accommodations. The location works well for travelers visiting the Ingalls Homestead or those needing a quiet overnight stop with basic amenities.

Reservation Info

Reservations can be made at the Finance Office located at 111 3rd St NE or by calling (605)847-4140.

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Map & DirectionsLake Preston City Park & Campground is located in South Dakota near Lake Preston

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

44.35894823797893 N
97.37034130216796 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 6/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Water Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Lake Preston City Park & Campground

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5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 23, 2020

Great place to stop for a few days

This park is a nice little stop in a super small town. We came through just to visit the Ingall’s homestead and enjoyed this peace and quiet so much we decided to stay for four days.

It’s self service, so first come first served. We were the only ones here for a day or so and then a few others came, but it never filled up. You just put your cash in a lock box.

All the sites have electrical and there’s water available in a few sites. Splitter on the spout makes it easy for two campers to share the water.

The back in spots have plenty of shade. The pull throughs are in direct sun. But all the spots are freshly graveled and we’ll maintained.

There’s a playground for the kids and clean bathrooms with showers.

The town is super small, so don’t expect to have a touristy experience or anything. But if you’re on your way to the ingall’s homestead, or just need a place to park for a night or two, the spot is great.

  • Review photo of Lake Preston City Park & Campground by Kristen L., August 23, 2020
  • Review photo of Lake Preston City Park & Campground by Kristen L., August 23, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

What recreational activities can I do at Lake Preston?

Lake Preston offers a peaceful environment perfect for relaxation and unwinding. The quiet setting makes it ideal for reading, picnicking, and enjoying nature. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions, most notably the historic Ingalls Homestead, which is a short drive away. The small-town atmosphere provides a charming backdrop for leisurely walks and enjoying the slower pace of rural South Dakota. While the immediate recreational offerings may be modest, the tranquil surroundings are the main attraction for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.

What amenities are available at Lake Preston Campground?

Lake Preston City Park & Campground operates on a self-service, first-come-first-served basis with no advance reservations required. The campground provides basic amenities in a peaceful park setting. While specific facility details aren't extensive, the campground offers a quiet atmosphere with minimal crowds, making it ideal for campers seeking tranquility. The park setting provides green space and a peaceful environment. Contact the town office directly for current information about hookups, bathroom facilities, and any usage fees.

Where is Lake Preston Campground located and how do I get there?

Lake Preston City Park & Campground is located in the small town of Lake Preston, South Dakota. The campground is situated within the city park, offering a peaceful setting in this quiet rural community. Lake Preston is conveniently located for those visiting area attractions like the Ingalls Homestead in De Smet. To get there, follow directions to Lake Preston town center, where the park and campground are easily accessible. The campground is visible from the main road through town.

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