Camping options near Britton, South Dakota extend beyond RV parks to include nature-focused sites within a 30-mile radius. This northeastern South Dakota region features prairie landscapes interspersed with small lakes and conservation areas. Winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°F, limiting most camping to the May through October season.
What to do
Hiking trails: Sica Hollow State Park Campground offers interesting trails through an oak/grass prairie ecosystem with small waterfalls and streams. "Some of the most interesting hiking on this end of the state. Only 11 or so spots and very little shade," notes a visitor to Sica Hollow State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds provide lake access for fishing and swimming. At Silver Lake Rec Area, campers can enjoy fishing from shore or boating on the lake. "There is actually 3 campgrounds and they surround the lake. Some of the nicest tent spots I've seen. Small Frisbee golf course and not much formal hiking but you can boat on this lake and lots of fishing from the shore," reports a camper at Silver Lake Rec Area.
Nature viewing: Hankinson Hills Campground preserves original oak/grass prairie habitat. "What is unique about this place is that is an original remnant of the oak/grass prairies that used to cover extensive areas where the forest met the plains. There is grazing in the grassland but it is very quiet and no light pollution," explains one visitor to Hankinson Hills Campground.
What campers like
Affordable rates: Many municipal campgrounds in the region offer budget-friendly options. Britton City Park provides unusually generous terms: "1st 2 nights free, $15 after that, 10 day max, full hookups as in water, sewer & 20/30amp electrical at all 4 sites, must call number or sign in at city hall."
Swimming areas: Dead Colt Creek Rec Area features a dedicated swimming area. "The lake is very pretty. The swimming area is very nice. They have full bathrooms with showers. A number of different camp sites to be at," says one camper at Dead Colt Creek Rec Area.
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds in the region offer peaceful settings. At Hankinson Hills, a camper noted: "There are gorgeous sites well spaced and lots of shade. Trails to bike ride around. No motorized vehicles allowed so it's quiet. Road in was good gravel. Picnic tables, fire rings and pit toilets. $10 / night."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between sites and can affect remote work plans. "Cell service was actually pretty good," reports one Hankinson Hills visitor, while at Silver Lake Rec Area another notes: "Poor cell service but lots of open sky and the sat service is killing it today."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in the area close completely from November to April. Silver Lake Rec Area operates May 1 to October 1, while Dead Colt Creek's season runs May 1 to September 30.
Insect activity: Summer months bring biting insects to many campgrounds. "Only downside was the abundance of biting flies and mosquitoes," warns a visitor to Hankinson Hills Campground.
Facility condition: Some municipal campgrounds have aging infrastructure. "The sites are paved, but they are old and starting to break up," notes a visitor to Groton City Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "The swimming area is very nice," notes a camper at Dead Colt Creek Rec Area, making it suitable for families with children wanting water activities.
Playground access: Some campgrounds connect to municipal parks with play equipment. Silver Lake Rec Area features "a very nice swimming beach and what appeared to be a new playground for the kids."
Avoid sites without facilities: Some camping areas lack basic amenities. At Webster City Park, a visitor noted: "These are just camping spots w/electric. There are several spots along the road on a paved area or there were several grassy, older looking sites right across the street... No shade anywhere but grass and a somewhat fenced lot. No toilet either."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites throughout the region typically feature minimal space between rigs. At Groton City Park, "Each site has water and sewer. Picnic tables are available. No fire pits."
Power sharing arrangements: Some campgrounds have unusual electrical setups. "We shared a post with our neighbors and each post had one 30 amp and one 50 amp plug so you'll need an adapter if your neighbor is already plugged in to 30 amp service," explains a visitor at Silver Lake Rec Area.
City-based camping: Several municipal sites offer basic rv sites near Britton, South Dakota with minimal amenities. At Milnor City Park, a visitor describes the setup: "Calling a campground is a stretch. It's a few parking spots near a small park right inside the town. They're cute. They're nice summer in the shade."
