9 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Gavins Horse Camp at Lewis And Clark Recreation Area accommodates equestrians with horse-specific sites near Beresford. The campground features trail access directly from the camping area, with sites designed to accommodate both horse trailers and camping equipment. The campground connects to riding paths throughout the recreation area, allowing for varied terrain and scenic views. Campsites in the horse camp area provide adequate space for trailer parking alongside tent or RV setup. Restroom facilities remain extremely well maintained and clean, with showers available for campers after a day on the trails. The park maintains several miles of trails suitable for riders of different experience levels.
Union Grove State Park Campground offers another option for horse enthusiasts, with a dedicated lower campground specifically for equestrians. The park contains multiple hiking and horse trails through wooded areas, providing shaded routes during summer months. Horse trails wind through varied terrain including wooded sections and open areas. Water access points for horses are available throughout the trail system. The campground provides 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups for those camping with horse trailers and RVs. Sites accommodate vehicles with trailers while maintaining adequate space between neighboring campers. Trails in the area give riders opportunity to exercise their horses on well-maintained paths. The campground remains open year-round, though trail conditions vary seasonally with weather changes affecting accessibility.
"Play equipment, horse trails, hiking trails, well maintained. Beautiful area."
"Lower one is for horses. Upper is not. Sites in upper campground are a little small and close together but very well maintained. Hosts are very friendly."
from $10 - $15 / night
Check Availability"I had an amazing time at Newton Hills Campground in South Dakota with my family and young children."
"Love this place very close to the major city of anything is needed. Nature and trails all around, lake for fishing and swimming, love to come out during the summer with the dogs!"
"South Dakota State Park, Brandon SD. Great stop. We spent 2 days. Very nice campground with lots to do and see. Big spacious sites ours backed up to the bike path and river."
"They have nice long paved trails for walking and biking. We got to walk our dogs on it to avoid tick contact from the grassy trails. There was a cool suspension bridge that was fun to walk on."
"South Dakota has it right with making reservations! Nebraska is HORRIBLE!!! We quit the Nebraska State parks years ago! Putting in coins to take a shower?! Really?! South Dakota doesn’t do that!!!"
"We had a wonderfull Campside with view of the Lake .The campground is very big and Quiet. Very clean Bathhouses .Lot of Beaches and Playgrounds for Kids. We come back ."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"Please contact the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center at (402) 667-2546 for more information.• The Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium• Visit nearby Yankton, South Dakota- the historic capitol"
"There is access to water and restrooms in each loop. Some of the sites are right near Lake Yankton. There was decent fishing but nothing too special."
from $20 - $22 / night
Check Availability"Convenient location to a lot of attractions, stores, and restaurants. Can camp during events. Huge area."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"Great biking and walking paths for families - beautiful path along the waterfront!"
"There’s no water or sewer at the sites, but there is when you first drive into the campground."
from $30 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Playground, boat ramp, picnic area fishing, birdwatching, equestrian camp & trails, something for everyone."
"Horse trails and camping is available at Danish Alps as are primitive and electric spots."
from $30 - $35 / night
Check Availability
GuideWe stayed here one night and got to experience some South Dakota wind rocking our camper during the night. The bathrooms are huge and very clean but someone left dirty diapers in trash and by morning the smell was rough. Area along fence borders highway with much closer sites and road noise. We opted for area on grass near arena.
GuideI had an amazing time at Newton Hills Campground in South Dakota with my family and young children. The spacious and clean facilities provided the perfect backdrop for our outdoor getaway, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation away from the city. The kids had a blast exploring the natural surroundings and participating in the family-friendly activities. This campground is a true gem for those seeking a wholesome outdoor experience.
ScoutGreat place to camp!!! South Dakota has it right with making reservations! Nebraska is HORRIBLE!!! We quit the Nebraska State parks years ago! Putting in coins to take a shower?! Really?! South Dakota doesn’t do that!!! South Dakota State Parks ROCK!!!!!
LegendDates: April 15, 2021- October 17, 2021 October 17 2021– April 21, 2022
Fees:$16.00$18.00
The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center: Contains exhibits on the Missouri River and area history including the Lewis and Clark Expedition with stunning views of Lewis and Clark Lake along with the Missouri River. Powerhouse Tours are available on weekends. Please contact the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center at (402) 667-2546 for more information.• The Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium• Visit nearby Yankton, South Dakota- the historic capitol of the Dakota Territory.• Located both upstream and downstream of Lewis and Clark Lake, visit the Missouri National Recreational River.
•• Latitude• 42° 51' 31.0000" N • Longitude• 97° 28' 57.0000" W••
From U.S. Hwy 81 in Yankton, South Dakota, drive four miles west on South Dakota Highway 52, then south on Dam Toe Road and follow signs
.• Check-In Time is 4:00 P.M./ Check-Out Time is 2:00 P.M.
All-Terrain Vehicles(ATVs/UTVs) and golf carts are not permitted.
Quiet hours are 10:00 P.M. to 6:00 A.M.
Fireworks are prohibited.
All pets must be on a leash of 6 feet in length or less. Pet waste must be picked up and properly disposed of promptly.
Firewood Alert: Don't Move Firewood!• Due to the spread of invasive insects(such as Emerald Ash Borer(EAB)) firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect your forests by purchasing near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Firewood is not available for sale on-site, however several local businesses sell firewood a short distance away, see the campground host or attendant for more information.• Visit DontMoveFirewood.org for more information.
For questions or to contact park staff, please call: 402-667-2546 or email: gavinspoint.nwo@usace.army.mil. U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS GAVINS POINT PROJECT OFFICE P.O. BOX 710 YANKTON, SD 57078
Physical Address U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND 198 TOE RD YANKTON, SD 57078 Phone Number
For facility specific information, please call (402) 667-2546
Trails: There are at least 9 hiking trails on AllTrails that you will find around Lewis and Clark Recreation Area. Lewis and Clark has the best of both worlds since the lake borders South Dakota and Nebraska. That makes it easy to stay in your preferred state and location. In Yankton SD a great trail is the Chalk Bluffs Multi-Use Trail which is a 3.7 mile loop where you will find a lake and it is rated as moderate. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. This trail is used for hiking, horses, mountain biking and birding and is accessible through out the year. There is a 3.8 mile lightly used round trip or one way out and back called Yankton South Shore Trail. Great for wildlife viewing and it is great for walking, hiking and just enjoying nature.
Fishing: Lewis & Clark offers many types of fish for all anglers out there, walleye, sauger, large and small mouth bass, crappie, catfish and bluegill. It depends on the season and temperature of the water as to what is biting.
Boating: Boating goes hand in hand with fishing and as with all things there are rules and regulations. You will find all types of boats, speedboats, pontoon, kayaks and personal watercraft. Make sure and wear your life jacket anytime you are on the water– Stay Safe and Alive. Make sure you are aware of the rules and regulations for boating around a dam area.
Another issue that has become an increasing problem is Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) which is spreading in the United States. There are different types of AIS and they are being spread by several methods. Boaters, of all types, help spread or help stop the spread by taking care of their watercraft. Before leaving a boat launch practice the CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY technique. Many states require an AIS permit before you place watercraft in the water.
Birding: Birding at Lewis & Clark is great for watching bald eagles. You can get a list from Niobrara State Park for birds found around the lake.
Hunting: In season, of course, begins the Tuesday after Labor Day. White tailed deer, mourning dove, waterfowl and wild turkey, cottontail rabbits and squirrel. Make sure you follow all the regulations in the recreation area.
Winter sports: Adds a completely new option for recreation. When ice is thick enough the lake is open for ice fishing, skating and snowmobiles. Cross country skiing is also very popular.
Lewis & Clark Lake is formed from the Missouri and Niabrara Rivers. The lake travels for about 35 miles at a maximum pool 90 miles of shoreline. Maximum depth is 45 feet. It was named after the Lewis& Clark Expedition that camped nearby.
LNT
Better than when you found it
Stay safe– Happy Travels
TravelerSouth Dakota State Park, Brandon SD. Great stop. We spent 2 days. Very nice campground with lots to do and see. Big spacious sites ours backed up to the bike path and river. New bathhouse entire park was very clean. About half hour to Sioux Falls. Worth the trip to see the Falls and the bike/hike trail around the city.
GuideGreat place for RV camping. My Uncle and I went through here back in 2011. All sites were reservable on-line. Every site had electric hookups. There is access to water and restrooms in each loop. Some of the sites are right near Lake Yankton. There was decent fishing but nothing too special. The park itself is very close to South Dakota, and you can visit the old time capitol of the Dakota Territory. I love the little history pieces like this so it was worth the side trip for me. It is also right near Lewis and Clark Lake which has really good fishing in the early morning. People we met were using the spot as they were passing through the area or for taking kids out for the weekend. Pets were allowed here too.
GuideSuch a nice campground. Nice big shady trees and manicured lawns. They sell campfire wood for 6$ a bundle on site so we had some great campfires going. They have nice long paved trails for walking and biking. We got to walk our dogs on it to avoid tick contact from the grassy trails. There was a cool suspension bridge that was fun to walk on. The showers were very nice and hot without a lot of traffic.
There is no sewage hookup or water hook ups. They do that 50/30 amp sites available. There is a dump station right at the entrance to dump when you leave and it also has a separate fresh water station if you want to fill up right when you get there so youre not traveling with a bunch of water in your tank.
It was a great campground and the falls were close by and palisades state park was also in the area with a nice hike.
There is an extra $8 car fee per night that you have to pay on top of any camping fees. If you are staying longer than 5 days it better to just get the annual parking pass for $32, which would cover parking for all state parks and recreation areas in SD.
They have great discounts if you are a veteran and south dakota resident.
TravelerBeautiful campground! Sites are well spaced. Lots of trees for great shade in the hot summer. Very nice bathroom and shower house. Easy drive in to Sioux Falls. Several trails around the park. This was our final stop on our South Dakota trip. It was a wonderful and restful campground for us. After we arrived, Park staff came around and shared maps and info on things to do in the area. The first night a storm rolled through and the host drove thru and knocked on doors to check on people and let them know where shelter was just in case. Definitely will keep this campground on our list for future trips.
TravelerI pulled in and found a wide open campground. I picked a site high on the bluff overlooking the reservoir. It had quite the view. It’s a newer area so trees are planted for the future. Sites are spacious with water and both 30 & 50 amp hookup. Clean dump station that also has a fish cleaning station. Playground, boat ramp, picnic area fishing, birdwatching, equestrian camp & trails, something for everyone.
Equestrian camping near Beresford, South Dakota provides access to multiple established trail systems across eastern South Dakota and adjacent Nebraska. The region sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, with a humid continental climate that creates four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with moderate humidity, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season for horseback riders.
Trail riding at Danish Alps SRA: The recreation area contains several miles of designated equestrian trails across varied terrain. "We mainly went to fish! There's quite a large space to the park with lots of trails and open field areas," notes Tiffany H. about Danish Alps State Recreation Area Camping.
Disc golf course access: Many campgrounds offer on-site disc golf facilities for alternative recreation between trail rides. At Cottonwood Campground, campers have noted this amenity among others: "Disc golf, shade, playground, security lights" are available according to reviewer N.I.
Fishing opportunities: Most equestrian campgrounds offer nearby fishing access for mixed recreational trips. "Great place for RV camping. There was decent fishing but nothing too special. It is also right near Lewis and Clark Lake which has really good fishing in the early morning," explains James D.
Private restroom facilities: Many campers appreciate the individual bathroom units available at some campgrounds. At Union Grove State Park Campground, "private restrooms/showers, nice playground for kids" are highlights according to Riding with S., who "stayed 5 nights instead of 2."
Spacious campsites: Equestrian campers value adequate space between sites for horse trailers. "Spacious park with lots of shade and some sites have waterfront views," notes Warren W. about Cottonwood Campground, highlighting the importance of room to maneuver with larger rigs.
Quality trail maintenance: Well-kept trails remain a primary attraction for horse camping visitors. At Newton Hills Campground, "Beautiful, quiet, shaded, level sites with plenty of space between. Great trails and a short scenic road" create an ideal environment according to Victor E.
Seasonal accessibility: Trail conditions vary significantly throughout the year. "We stayed one night on our way home from pheasant hunting. Nearly had the park to ourselves (end of October) and it was wonderful!" shares Liz about Union Grove State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: Some equestrian sites require advance booking during peak season. "Reservations can be made ahead of time online. However day passes have to be purchased in person, cash, on site day of," explains Leni K.
Facility variations: Big Sioux Recreation Area offers different amenities than other regional campgrounds. "Clean bathrooms with showers. Firewood available to purchase. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Bike and hiking trails. Plus plenty of privacy," reports Myrna G.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Newton Hills Campground, "I had an amazing time with my family and young children. The kids had a blast exploring the natural surroundings and participating in the family-friendly activities," explains Nicholas S.
Educational opportunities: Lewis and Clark Recreation Area offers historical context for family trips. "The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center contains exhibits on the Missouri River and area history including the Lewis and Clark Expedition with stunning views," notes reviewer N.I.
Wildlife viewing: Families can observe local fauna during camping trips. "There were bison and wild horses in the campground. It had nice views," shares Amy J. about her experience with children at Cottonwood Campground.
Electric hookup options: Most equestrian campgrounds offer electrical service for RVs. At W.H. Lyon Fairground, "This campground has full hookups, clean restrooms and showers. Pay 6 get 1 free," explains Dakota M., highlighting the value for extended stays.
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend choosing locations based on specific needs. "We opted for area on grass near arena. Area along fence borders highway with much closer sites and road noise," advises Glenda about positioning at W.H. Lyon Fairground.
Dump station availability: Equestrian campers with RVs should note sanitation facilities. "Clean dump station that also has a fish cleaning station," mentions Ellyce T. about Danish Alps SRA, providing useful information for planning longer stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Beresford, SD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Beresford, SD is Union Grove State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 11 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Beresford, SD?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Beresford, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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