Camping areas near Beresford, South Dakota range from established state parks to free municipal campgrounds across the gently rolling prairie landscape. The region's continental climate brings warm summers with daytime temperatures reaching 85°F and cool, crisp fall nights often dropping below 50°F by September. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet, providing accessible terrain for campers of all experience levels.
What to do
Hiking woodland trails: Newton Hills State Park offers multiple hiking paths through deciduous forest that contrasts with the surrounding farmland. "There are plenty of trails and paved roadways to wander around on. The spots are nice. The only thing that could be improved would be more established, kid friendly trails into the woods," notes Zach E. about Newton Hills Campground.
Water activities: Lazy H Campground provides fishing and boating opportunities on their private lake. "There's fishing, boating, biking, and swimming. The beach has giant floating lily pads that the kids loved. There are showers on the beach to wash off feet after you're done swimming," shares Bryan R. about the Lazy H Campground.
Disc golf: Local parks feature disc golf courses for recreation beyond traditional camping activities. "Play equipment, horse trails, hiking trails, well maintained. Beautiful area," mentions S U. about Union Grove State Park Campground, while Bibs O. notes "Disk golf is also found here" at Peder Larsen City Park.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Many campsites prioritize cleanliness and upkeep. "Bathrooms are just as clean and nice. Nearly had the park to ourselves (end of October) and it was wonderful!" writes Liz about Union Grove State Park Campground, while Jeffrey J. describes Countryside Campgrounds as a "Super clean park. All pull through level sites. Clean bathrooms, clean laundry. A gem. Large green areas and a playground."
Spacious sites with privacy: Campers appreciate sites that offer adequate room and separation. "The sites in upper campground are a little small and close together but very well maintained. Hosts are very friendly," notes Leslie B. about Union Grove State Park. Victor E. describes Big Sioux Recreation Area as having "Beautiful, quiet, shaded, level sites with plenty of space between."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost alternatives. "Slept here on way from Davenport IA to Rapid City. No services picnic tables designated spots or fire pits, just a loop dirt road with grass and plenty of space to camp on both sides," shares J T. about Gunderson Park, adding that there were "just two other vehicles there, plenty of space to spread out."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "CAMPING IS NOW ONLY ALLOWED BETWEEN MEMORIAL DAY THROUGH LABOR DAY. NO WINTER CAMPING IS ALLOWED ANY LONGER," cautions Bibs O. about Gunderson Park. Most state parks remain open year-round but with reduced services during winter months.
Reservation requirements: Planning ahead is necessary for many campgrounds. "Reservations can be made ahead of time online. However day passes have to be purchased in person, cash, on site day of," advises Leni K. about Union Grove State Park Campground.
Highway noise considerations: Proximity to interstate highways affects some camping experiences. "Convenient to the interstate, but that also means some highway noise if you are not in a hard sided camper," warns Leslie B. about Union Grove State Park, while Kevin C. mentions about Countryside Campgrounds: "2 things not crazy about sound of trucks exiting off interstate using jakebrake (engine exhaust brakes) and sale barn near by."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "It is really obvious that these folks put a lot of thought and effort into this park. Big lake for swimming and fishing. Concrete pads and nice new picnic tables," notes Jennifer S., adding about Lazy H Campground, "Great for kids!"
Swimming opportunities: Look for campgrounds with swimming options during summer visits. Austin and Natasha S. share about Union Grove: "Be prepared to higher your campground expectations after this one! Definitely one of the cleanest most well kept campgrounds I've seen in a while. Shower rooms/bathrooms are immaculate."
Nature exploration: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area. Bibs O. reports about Gunderson Park: "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." This provides educational experiences for children to observe wildlife in natural settings.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. "The pull through sites are fully concrete and level. They all have a huge table and stone fire pit. Plenty of room for a second vehicle. Full hookups are great," shares Bryan R. about Lazy H Campground.
Connectivity options: Internet access varies by location. Bryan R. reports: "Sprint/T-mobile data was around 56 Mbps down" at Lazy H Campground, making it suitable for remote work needs while camping.
Level site access: RV campers appreciate properly graded sites. "Site was level. Trees surrounding area. Electric hook up but no water. Flush toilets with showers very nice," notes Carol J. about Big Sioux Recreation Area.
