Big Sioux Recreation Area encompasses a diverse landscape where the prairie meets riparian woodland zones along the Big Sioux River at approximately 1,500 feet elevation. Located just east of Sioux Falls near Brandon, the region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F and cold winters that can dip below 0°F. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV accommodations with 30-amp hookups.
What to do
Hiking trails: 1-3 miles in length with varying difficulty levels throughout the area. At Palisades State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the unique quartzite formations. "I love this park for both it's camping and hiking. Stunning quartzite formations make for some great climbing. It's a really small park which is both good and bad. The trails aren't very long, but it's not usually overcrowded," notes Jessica B.
Frisbee golf course: Full 18 holes with challenging water hazards. This activity receives positive reviews at Big Sioux Recreation Area. According to Tyson K., "I didn't partake but they do have a Frisbee golf course. Took a short walk on their trail system to the suspension walking bridge."
Swimming and water activities: Beach areas with designated swimming zones at several locations. Lake Vermillion Recreation Area features a sand beach for summer visitors. As Kenneth B. describes, "Beautiful place view of lake, sites are paved, no stones. Lots of trees and shade, I stayed in east campground."
What campers like
Spacious sites: 30+ feet between campsites at most established campgrounds. Tower Campground offers full hookup sites though some are closer together than others. According to Tracy B., "Large campsites if you pay for the upgraded premium site. Other sites appeared small and close together."
Clean facilities: Recently updated restrooms with regular maintenance schedules. Campers consistently mention the cleanliness standards at most locations in the region. "Site was level. Trees surrounding area. Electric hook up but no water. Flush toilets with showers very nice," reports Carol J. about her stay at Big Sioux Recreation Area.
Quiet settings: Low ambient noise levels especially during weekdays and off-season periods. Many campgrounds offer a peaceful atmosphere away from urban areas. Trevor A. states about glamping in Brandon, South Dakota: "We come here often. The showers are great, the walking trail is great, and the spots are nice and spread out. Overall a great park!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends and holidays. Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. John D. advises about Lake Vermillion Recreation Area: "Residents of South Dakota love their camping, so book a site as early as allowable. I would recommend the east campground."
Fee structure: Additional charges beyond base rates may apply at state parks. Non-resident fees, reservation fees, and park entrance fees can add up. Donna H. explains: "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."
Seasonal considerations: May-September optimal months for comfortable outdoor activities. Winter camping is available but requires proper equipment. Heidi M. reports: "We have stayed here many times. Nice quiet state campground. Our site was nice, level, spacious, and had plenty of grass coverage (instead of dirt). Bugs were a pain but not much you can do about that."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Multiple play areas located throughout the recreation zones. Families with children can take advantage of these facilities. Jessica B. shares about Sioux Falls KOA: "Our stay here was perfect! We requested a specific site and they were very accommodating. So friendly. Impressed with the camp store. We got a spot right in front of the playground which was perfect for our toddler."
Swimming safety: Designated beach areas with varying water quality throughout the season. Check with park offices for current conditions. Clarke N. mentions: "Very nice campground with big sites. This area is very nice for hiking and pretty sure swimming and kayaking. We were there early spring so water was too cold to swim."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing areas where families can observe native species. Several campgrounds offer nature programs during summer months. One visitor at Blue Mounds State Park notes: "Park features natural prairie and a buffalo herd. Bison tours are available. Plenty of hiking trails and some cliff climbing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Corner spots offer best privacy and easiest access for larger rigs. Experienced RVers recommend checking site dimensions before booking. MickandKarla W. advises about Lake Vermillion: "We continued to the end loop and backed into site 43 (50/30/20 AMP), which was easy thanks to its corner location. Our site was spacious enough for our 40' 5th wheel and F450."
Hookup availability: Electric only at many sites with water fill and dump stations centrally located. Plan water usage accordingly for longer stays. "The electric hookup is at the back; we needed about 30' of cord. All sites here are electric only and nicely spaced apart," reports a Lake Vermillion camper.
Road access: Level, well-maintained roads throughout most campgrounds with occasional tight turns. Large rigs should scout routes in advance. Robert O. shares about glamping opportunities near Brandon: "The gravel roadways to each campsite are groomed perfectly level. This park is Big Rig friendly with very large pull throughs."
