Lake Thompson Recreation Area and surrounding campgrounds offer diverse yurt camping options near Bruce, South Dakota. The region sits at approximately 1,700 feet above sea level in the glaciated prairie pothole region, characterized by small lakes and wetlands. Temperatures range from summer highs around 85°F to winter lows frequently below freezing, with spring and fall offering milder camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Thompson provides excellent fishing access with dedicated cleaning stations. According to Steven W., "Great fishing spots with cleaning stations available. For history buffs, campground is less than 10 miles from the Laura Ingalls Wilder homestead and De Smet."
Historical excursions: Visit the Ingalls Homestead to experience 1880s pioneer life. "This is a truly magical place, and if you've ever read any of the Little House on the Prairie books and are anywhere near De Smet South Dakota, do yourself a favor and swing by," writes Corinna B. The homestead offers hands-on activities including covered wagon rides and visiting a one-room schoolhouse.
Water recreation: Beyond swimming, many area lakes support boating and kayaking. At River of the Double Bend Campground, visitors can enjoy river activities. Laura R. shares, "We rented kayaks and went up river, then floated to our camp site," making for a perfect summer day activity.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Waterfront camping spots offer direct lake access. At Lake Thompson Recreation Area, Steven W. notes, "Beautiful location on the north shore of Lake Thompson. Some sites face the lake, others have shade with enough open sky for your StarLink dish."
Historical immersion: Many campers appreciate the area's connection to pioneer history. Gregory B. says about Ingalls Homestead, "Friendly folks and simple camping. Lots of things for the kids to do and play just like its 1880."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Memorial Park, ML W. reports, "There are many sites for both tent and RV camping along with clean wash houses and located within a 10 minute drive to town."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: While some campgrounds operate year-round, activities are most abundant from May through September. The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer fewer crowds but variable weather conditions.
Reservation requirements: Popular yurt accommodations fill quickly, especially at Lake Thompson Recreation Area. Sites at Memorial Park should be reserved well in advance, particularly for weekend stays.
Bug preparation: Summer camping requires insect protection. Audrey F. warns about Lake Thompson, "Be sure to use bug spray as mosquitoes were all over- maybe due to wet weather."
Tips for camping with families
Historical activities: The pioneer-themed attractions make excellent educational opportunities. Brian C. says of the Ingalls Homestead, "The other really cool thing about this spot—especially for families—are all the fun activities at the homestead itself. There's a one-room school house with tours, a barn with animals, a covered wagon ride."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Camden State Park, Kyle B. notes it offers "Great hiking and biking trails, swimming pond and right on the redwood river," making it suitable for active families.
Swimming areas: Many locations have designated swimming beaches for children. About Norwegian Creek County Park, Shirlee A. mentions, "Great location for kids - there are 2 parks and little 'beaches' with sand to play next to the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking yurt accommodations near Bruce, South Dakota, consider views and shade options. Michelle B. advises about Ingalls Homestead, "Love that there are only 4 sites. We stayed here with family and had 3 of the sites. Beautiful land! Our suggestion if you stay here is, pull in the parking lot and back up the driveway to the camp sites. Unless you have a small vehicle and camper, it is tricky to get turned around if it is full."
Amenities availability: While yurts provide shelter, utilities vary between locations. Lisa notes about Maxwell Park Campground, "A very utilitarian campground in Arlington, SD. Best feature aside from the shade is there is a laundrymat in the same lot! Electric, shade and a shrub row separates you from the road."
Dump station challenges: Some campgrounds have imperfect dump stations. Lora H. mentions about Ingalls Homestead, "There is a dump station but be fore warned it's on a slope, so emptying your tanks completely will be a challenge."
