RV sites near Bruce, South Dakota offer camping opportunities within the prairie landscape of eastern South Dakota, where elevations range from 1,600 to 1,800 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with hot summers reaching 90°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area sit near small lakes formed during glacial periods, providing both fishing access and wildlife viewing.
What to do
Kayaking on local waters: At River of the Double Bend Campground in nearby Trent, campers can rent kayaks and paddle upstream before floating back to camp. "We rented kayaks and went up river, then floated to our camp site. Half way we ran out of beer - AND THEY BROUGHT US SOME!!!" reports Laura R.
Horseback riding trails: Oakwood Lakes State Park maintains dedicated horse trails that connect multiple camping areas. "There is a horse trail and trail campsites," notes Louann J. about the park's trail system that loops around the lakes.
Historical exhibits: The Ingalls Homestead in De Smet provides hands-on 1880s activities for visitors. "There's a one-room school house with tours, a barn with animals, a covered wagon ride where you (or your kids) can lead the horse-drawn wagon, opportunities to learn how to make a jump rope, twist hay, wash clothes," explains Brian C.
Fishing access: Multiple docks and shoreline access points at Memorial Park provide opportunities for anglers. "Close to beach, fishing dock and close to playground for kids!" mentions Rebekah M. about the facilities at this Watertown park.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Lake Herman State Park Campground receives high marks for its shower and restroom maintenance. "Bathrooms were decent," notes Andrea, while other campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities.
Large, level sites: Sexauer City Park in Brookings provides spacious camping areas. "Nice quiet park with clean bathrooms and showers and level pads for rv parking," reports Kristi P. about this municipal campground.
Playground access: Several parks maintain playground equipment suitable for families with children. At Oakwood Lakes State Park, "We visited during the week so we pretty much had the campsite to ourselves!! They have a playground which my 4 year old son loved!" writes Ashley K.
Wildlife viewing: The grassland and lake environments support diverse bird populations. "Nice place to go camping, especially if you are looking to go birding for waterfowl or fishing one of the nearby lakes," David B. notes about the park's natural attractions.
What you should know
Limited reservation systems: Some campgrounds operate on first-come systems with paper registrations. At Sexauer Park, "Although an envelope system is in use and we were told we didn't need one, reservation slips made out by the park (ON ORANGE) take precedence over the white slips," warns James H.
Seasonal closures: Winter camping requires checking facility status. "Apparently when temps reach towards freezing they close all restrooms and showers (only listed on Facebook)," reports DakotaMiner about Sexauer Park.
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds feature more crowded layouts than others. At Pipestone Family Campground, "Campground was nearly full of local campers but the kids played great together... We had a pull thru spot, leveling was tricky," notes S G.
Lake conditions: Water access points may present challenges. "The one and only thing I would say is that there is a rocky very Rocky Lake," mentions Alley-oop M. about Memorial Park's shoreline.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Ingalls Homestead offers interactive historical programs. "Friendly folks and simple camping. Lots of things for the kids to do and play just like its 1880," shares Gregory B.
Beach access: Several parks maintain swimming areas with nearby camping. "Great campground with a lot to do. Nice beach and walking trails and outdoor excessive area," reports Jesse B. about Lake Herman State Park.
Playground proximity: At Memorial Park, sites near recreational facilities benefit families. "Close to beach, fishing dock and close to playground for kids!" notes Rebekah M.
Group activities: Some campgrounds organize social events for all ages. "Decent pool & showers, fun activities like bags tournaments and a potluck," mentions S G. about Pipestone Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: At Sexauer City Park, "Spent 4 nights for my son's wedding. Has 30 amp service. Clean shower house. Perfect spot to visit Brookings without paying for hotel," shares Kelly.
Dump station access: RVers should note varying dump station placements and conditions. "There is a dump station but be fore warned it's on a slope, so emptying your tanks completely will be a challenge," warns Lora H. about the Ingalls Homestead facilities.
Site accessibility: Large rigs may face maneuvering challenges at certain campgrounds. "Love that there are only 4 sites. We stayed here with family and had 3 of the sites... 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," advises Michelle B. about Ingalls Homestead.
Private bathroom options: Some parks offer individual facilities. "The bathrooms are amazing for a campground. One of the few places I've ever camped where you get a full bathroom to yourself," notes Taylor T. about Oakwood Lakes State Park.
