Best Campgrounds near Bruce, SD

Camping near Bruce, South Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place filled with activities, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Explore the Ingalls Homestead: This campground is not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a slice of history. Visitors can tour the property for $20 per person and check out the dugout, barn, and schoolhouse. One reviewer said, “Love that there are only 4 sites. Beautiful land!” Ingalls Homestead is a must-visit for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder.
• Enjoy water activities: At Lake Herman State Park Campground, you can swim, fish, or rent paddle boards and kayaks. A camper mentioned, “Great campground with a lot to do. Nice beach and walking trails.”
• Hiking and biking: The trails around Oakwood Lakes State Park are perfect for hiking and biking. One visitor noted, “Great place for horseback riding and canoeing, plus boating and fishing.”

What campers like

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review for Campground 1 — Oakwood Lakes State Park highlighted, “The bathrooms are amazing for a campground. One of the few places I've ever camped where you get a full bathroom to yourself.”
• Quiet atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the peaceful environment. One reviewer at Sexauer City Park said, “Quiet small city campground. A few nice pullouts. Plenty of back ins, and a tent area.”
• Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds like Stokes-Thomas Lake Campground offer playgrounds and beach areas. A camper shared, “Wonderful campground! Very well kept with the grass cut and shower/bath houses cleaned and maintained often.”

What you should know

• Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. For example, Campground 2 — Oakwood Lakes State Park has no water hookups, which might be a downside for some campers.
• Reservations recommended: Especially during peak seasons, it’s wise to reserve your spot in advance. A visitor at Sexauer City Park noted, “Ideal small campground, reserve in advance!”
• Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially if you’re camping near water. One camper at Lake Herman State Park Campground mentioned, “The area has many geocaches as well!”

Tips for camping with families

• Choose campgrounds with activities: Look for places like Ingalls Homestead that offer educational tours and hands-on activities for kids. A family shared, “Little House on the Prairie fans, you MUST stay here!”
• Pack for the beach: If you’re heading to Lake Herman State Park Campground, don’t forget your swimsuits and beach toys. One camper said, “Nice beach and walking trails and outdoor excessive area.”
• Plan for quiet evenings: Many campgrounds are peaceful at night, making them perfect for family bonding. A visitor at Stokes-Thomas Lake Campground noted, “Mid-week was very quiet and peaceful.”

Tips from RVers

• Check for dump stations: Some campgrounds, like Campground 1 — Oakwood Lakes State Park, have dump stations, but others may not. A reviewer mentioned, “The dump station is on a slope, so emptying your tanks completely will be a challenge.”
• Look for big rig-friendly sites: Many campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A camper at Campground 2 — Oakwood Lakes State Park said, “Big rig friendly, drinking water, electric hookups.”
• Be prepared for dirt roads: Some campgrounds, like Ingalls Homestead, have dirt roads leading to them. A visitor noted, “Great place to spend the night. Only a few campsites. Workers are great.”

Camping near Bruce, South Dakota, has something for everyone, from history buffs to families looking for fun. Make sure to check out the local campgrounds for a memorable experience!