Camping near Arlington, South Dakota offers year-round options within a 30-mile radius, with most sites accessible via paved and gravel roads. The region sits at approximately 1,700 feet elevation with warm summers and cold winters, creating distinct camping seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below zero, while summer highs typically reach the 80s.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Oakwood Lakes State Park features extensive riding paths through varied terrain. "Great place for horseback riding and canoeing, plush boating and fishing. In addition to natural beauty there are games to rent, playground, etc.," notes Lynn G. about Oakwood Lakes State Park.
Fishing at multiple lakes: The Arlington area provides access to several fishing lakes including Lake Poinsett and Lake Thompson. "This is very new campground. Opened in July of 2024. It is close to two lakes. Lake Whitewood and Lake Thompson. Very good fishing at both lakes. You are within 10 minute drive from fishing, swimming and boating on 2 fun lakes," reports David G. about Outback Campground.
Historical exploration: Learn about pioneer history at nearby sites. "Little Horse on the Prairie fans, you MUST stay here," recommends Lisa about Ingalls Homestead. "Each station on the self-guided tour has an activity with incredibly nice and informed hosts," adds Corinna B.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds offer individual bathrooms. "The bathrooms are amazing for a campground. One of the few places I've ever camped where you get a full bathroom to yourself. Plus it was very clean," reports Taylor T. about Oakwood Lakes State Park.
Quieter camping options: Several reviewers note the peaceful atmosphere at certain campgrounds. "One of the best campsites I've been to! Large lots, campfires allowed, lakes, trails, friendly people and sooo incredibly quiet," says Lynn A. C. about Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 2.
Swimming beaches: Clean swimming areas receive positive mentions. "The swim area was nice, no sand, but a nice place to swim where the water was clean! Camp site was a nice spot with privacy," notes Ason S. about Lake Poinsett State Rec Area.
What you should know
Campsite shade varies: Some campgrounds lack tree cover. "Campsites are very open and unshaded. Only a few are by the water," mentions Lynn G. about Oakwood Lakes. Other sites offer better shade options: "Although an envelope system is in use and we were told we didn't need one, reservation slips made out by the park (ON ORANGE) take precedence over the white slips," notes James H. about Sexauer City Park.
Seasonal closures affect facilities: Winter camping requires planning. "Apparently when temps reach towards freezing they close all restrooms and showers (only listed on Facebook), unfortunately our RV was winterized so we stayed overnight with zero accessible restrooms or showers," reports DakotaMiner about Sexauer City Park.
Campsite reservation systems differ: Each campground has its own system. "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," explains Kristen L. about Lake Preston City Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas. "We visited during the week so we pretty much had the campsite to ourselves!! They have a playground which my 4 year old son loved! He can't wait to go again! Bathrooms were clean and nice!" shares Ashley K. about Oakwood Lakes State Park.
Interactive activities: Seek out campgrounds with family-friendly options. "There's a one-room school house with tours, a barn with animals, a covered wagon ride where you (or your kids) can lead the horse-drawn wagon, opportunities to learn how to make a jump rope, twist hay, wash clothes," explains Brian C. about Ingalls Homestead.
Small town convenience: Arlington area campgrounds offer access to basic services. "A very utilitarian campground in Arlington, SD. Best feature aside from the shade is there is a laundrymat in the same lot!" notes Shelly S. about Maxwell Park.
Tips from RVers
Dump station challenges: Some facilities have limitations. "The Grey water dump is on a slight hill, with the ground washed away, and people sometimes park around it," warns Craig F. about Ingalls Homestead.
Electric options: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups with various amp ratings. "Very nice, our spot was large with electric. Quiet this weekend. 50 Amp service," reports Ronney P. about Lake Poinsett State Rec Area.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "Love that there are only 4 sites. We stayed here with family and had 3 of the sites. Beautiful land! Our suggestion if you stay here is, pull in the parking lot and back up the driveway to the camp sites. Unless you have a small vehicle and camper, it is tricky to get turned around if it is full," advises Michelle B. about Ingalls Homestead.
