Camping options near Arlington, South Dakota include several pet-friendly locations within a 30-minute drive. The region's flat prairie terrain sits at approximately 1,725 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Mosquitoes are common near the lakes after rainfall, particularly in Campground 1 which features extensive hiking trails around Scout Island.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Oakwood Lakes State Park offers excellent horseback riding opportunities along its network of trails. "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.
History exploration: Visitors can explore historical sites including Old Mortimer's Cabin. "Great history at Ol Mortimers Cabin and the old military fort. Kayaking, boating, fishing, and swimming are excellent!" shares Lisa H. The site provides educational opportunities about early settlement.
1880s homestead activities: Ingalls Homestead offers immersive historical experiences with hands-on activities. One camper explains, "Each station on the self-guided tour has an activity with incredibly nice and informed hosts. Most of the buildings are based on the original plans and descriptions from the Ingalls family."
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: The bathroom setup at Oakwood Lakes State Park receives consistent praise. "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.
Quiet atmosphere: Norland Park provides a peaceful camping experience despite being on a main route. A camper notes, "On busy truck route but very quiet after dark! Nice town to bike or walk! Grocery store, gas mini mart and Main St all close. No vehicle needed!"
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and recreational facilities make camping with children easier. "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!" shares Ashley K.
What you should know
Seasonal facilities: Sexauer City Park operates with limited facilities during colder months. "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 one camper.
Reservation systems: Different campgrounds have varying reservation processes. At Sexauer City Park, "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."
Site locations: Not all sites offer lake views or shade. "Campsites are very open and unshaded. Only a few are by the water," notes Lynn G. about Campground 1. Selecting a site early can make a significant difference in comfort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Poinsett State Rec Area has play areas for children. "Playground was at the other camp loop, but we spent some time playing before we left. Found some geocaches in the park, which was fun!" shares Ason S.
Animal interactions: Children often enjoy visiting sites with animals. At Ingalls Homestead, one visitor mentioned "some of our favorite time was spent hanging out in 'Pa's' lean-to barn with the barn kitties and riding horses and ponies."
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures can reach into the 90s, making water activities important. "The swim area was nice, no sand, but a nice place to swim where the water was clean!" notes a Lake Poinsett visitor.
Tips for RVers
Pet-friendly spots with space: Campground 2 offers ample room for pets. "Camped in the more open area (72E in campground 2). Large grassy sites with fire pit and picnic table. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Nice path around lake for walking the dog," explains Janet K.
Electric hookup availability: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Arlington offer electric hookups. "We stayed here in Aug 2019 - although it was a short visit, we had a nice time. Wasn't busy, kids liked playground, walking path, and checking out Mortimer's cabin. Electric hook-ups," reports Ason S.
Dump station challenges: Some facilities have difficult dump stations. At Ingalls Homestead, "There is a dump station but be fore warned it's on a slope, so emptying your tanks completely will be a challenge. Also a sign says grey water only, this is not true, you can dump your black water too."
