Campgrounds near Aurora, South Dakota offer accessible options for outdoor recreation across Lincoln and Brookings counties. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,600-1,700 feet with prairie landscapes dominating the region. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F during camping season, with facilities generally open from May through October, though some close bathroom facilities during cooler months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: At Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 1, visitors can explore multiple lakes with excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "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.
Hiking trails: The trail system includes routes suitable for various skill levels with minimal elevation change. "Super cool hiking trail around Scout Island! Great history at Ol Mortimers Cabin and the old military fort," shares Lisa H. about Oakwood Lakes State Park.
Water recreation: Multiple lakes provide swimming, fishing and boating access. Blue Mounds State Park offers additional water activities despite being further from Aurora. "The park has nice trails and bluffs. Bison are within the park but did not see," reports Dexter E.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. "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," says Taylor T. about Campground 2 at Oakwood Lakes.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature generous camping areas. "Large grassy sites with fire pit and picnic table. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Nice path around lake for walking the dog," Janet K. mentions about Campground 2.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite proximity to towns, most campgrounds maintain peaceful settings. "Despite being close to Brookings this park is quiet and i didnt find it very full. Nice place to go camping, especially if you are looking to go birding for waterfowl or fishing one of the nearby lakes," writes David B.
What you should know
Reservation systems: Understanding each park's booking process helps prevent confusion. 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 (which are the duplicate layer of your registration form)," advises James H.
Seasonal closures: Winter camping requires special preparation. "Driving from far north down south, stopped for an overnight that we had reservations for. Apparently when temps reach towards freezing they close all restrooms and showers (only listed on Facebook)," reports DakotaMiner about Sexauer City Park.
Water access varies: Not all sites offer the same proximity to water features. Lynn G. notes about Oakwood Lakes: "Nay: campsites are very open and unshaded. Only a few are by the water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "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. about Oakwood Lakes.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer learning experiences for kids. Blue Mounds State Park provides prairie tours that showcase native ecosystems. "Do the prairie tour, interesting and worth the time and the $15," recommends Karla J. B.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Aurora: Midway Camp in Volga welcomes pets with sites along the Sioux River. "Hidden gem. Midway camp is known for weddings and events. There are 24 sites most on the Sioux river. All back in sites. Grounds well maintained," notes Lynn M., making this a good option for pet-friendly camping near Aurora.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: Most campgrounds offer electric sites, but amperage varies. At Colman City Park, "Nightly site only had electric. Full hook up sites can only be rented seasonally," advises GoWhereYouAreDraw N.
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Lots of road noise and none of the site were very level. Nightly/weekly rate available," notes GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about Colman City Park.
Size limitations: Larger RVs may face challenges at certain sites. "Campground can get very cramped. Hard to park if you have a bigger camper," cautions GoWhereYouAreDraw N., offering important guidance for RVers with larger vehicles seeking pet-friendly campgrounds around Aurora.
