Camping spots near Beresford, South Dakota span across mixed prairie and woodland terrain at elevations between 1,200 and 1,600 feet. The region experiences temperature swings with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows often dropping below 10°F. Most campgrounds in the area close primitive facilities during cold months while keeping main electrical sites accessible year-round.
What to do
Hiking trails: Newton Hills Campground offers multiple trail options through wooded areas. One camper noted, "Great trails and a short scenic road, plus some nice open spaces. Bath facilities are convenient, but seem old and marginally maintained. Great stargazing."
Water recreation: Lazy H Campground provides extensive water activities with a maintained swimming beach. A visitor described their experience: "The beach has giant floating lily pads that the kids loved. There's fishing, boating, biking, and swimming. There are showers on the beach to wash off feet after you're done swimming."
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas allow opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Gunderson Park, a camper reported: "Our stay favored us with Bald Eagle sightings. 2 hung around the trees on the other side of the river in full view, it was wonderful."
Disk golf: Available at Peder Larsen City Park in Centerville, where sites also include electrical connections. According to reviews, "Disk golf is also found here" and the park features "a playground is very large for such a small village."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Union Grove State Park Campground consistently receives praise for maintenance standards. A camper reported: "Shower rooms/bathrooms are immaculate, and smell so nice. Site was perfect for both an RV or a tent."
Spacious sites: Big Sioux Recreation Area provides well-sized camping areas. A reviewer mentioned, "The campsites are clean, spacious, and beautiful. Absolutely loved it there."
Free camping options: Gunderson Park offers no-cost camping with few restrictions. According to a camper: "They have 2 fire pit locations, but, after speaking with the official at city hall we found out you can camp pretty much anywhere in the park you would like."
Campground hosts: Several locations have active hosts to assist visitors. At Union Grove State Park, a camper shared: "Campground/facilities are nice and clean, host is very friendly and helpful!"
What you should know
Limited winter access: Most area campgrounds restrict access seasonally. At Gunderson Park, a camper noted: "CAMPING IS NOW ONLY ALLOWED BETWEEN MEMORIAL DAY THROUGH LABOR DAY. NO WINTER CAMPING IS ALLOWED ANY LONGER."
Reservation requirements: Some parks require advance bookings while others allow same-day camping. At Union Grove, visitors should know: "Reservations can be made ahead of time online. However day passes have to be purchased in person, cash, on site day of."
Fee structures: Unexpected charges may apply at certain locations. One camper at Big Sioux Recreation Area advised: "I made my reservations online ($30 for the reservation, $1.26 tax, $0.45 for more tax, and $10 for the non-resident reservation fee)... I had no sooner settled in, and a woman knocked on my van asking that I pay a city tax, an additional $15."
Site selection: Not all sites within campgrounds offer equal conditions. At Newton Hills Campground, a camper observed: "Many campsites are almost full sun—so have your shade structure ready. Evenings very peaceful."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Newton Hills Campground offers family-friendly amenities. A camper shared: "I spent a quick night at Newton Hills and found the park to be lovely, but it was very busy with lots of families out and about. If you have a family it'll be a great spot—if you're looking for quiet and calm, maybe something else."
Swimming opportunities: Dedicated swimming areas enhance family camping experiences. A visitor to Lazy H Campground reported: "Great staff and extremely clean Campground. Pull through sites. Clean lake with boating. Private lake so no fishing license required."
Multiple activity options: Parks offering diverse activities better accommodate families with children of varying ages. A camper at Newton Hills noted: "Everything was great. There are plenty of parks and paved roadways to wander around on. The spots are nice. The only thing that could be approved would be more established, kid friendly trails into the woods."
Privacy considerations: Family groups often benefit from more secluded sites. At Big Sioux Recreation Area, a tent camper observed: "The non-e tent sites are in a forested section, all shaded. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings. Sites are located a very short walk from the designated parking."
Tips from RVers
Site composition: Countryside Campgrounds offers well-maintained RV spots. A camper reported: "All pull through level sites. Clean bathrooms, clean laundry. A gem. Large green areas and a playground. A little bit of hiway noise."
Hookup considerations: Multiple power options exist at area campgrounds. At Union Grove State Park, a visitor noted: "I liked this campground so much, I stayed 5 nights instead of 2. Small, cozy, shady campground, awesome camp hosts, private restrooms/showers, nice playground for kids. 30& 50 amp service, dump station."
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some camping locations. At Countryside Campgrounds, a camper advised: "Nice camp site tucked in near the interstate. 2 things not crazy about sound of trucks exiting off interstate using jakebrake (engine exhaust brakes) and sale barn near by. Beside that, clean sites easy hook ups and friendly staff."
Road access: Site accessibility varies by location. Big Sioux Recreation Area features good access: "The park is on the outskirts of a little town just east of Sioux Falls... The campsites are clean, spacious, and beautiful."
