Lake Vermillion Recreation Area sits 1,410 feet above sea level in the rolling prairie landscape near Canistota, South Dakota. The campground encompasses 512 acres with a 203-acre reservoir, offering water-based recreation and prairie hiking trails. Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Swimming access: Lake Vermillion offers designated swimming areas with a beach for cooling off during hot summer months. "The campground has a lake with a beach area - looked to have quite a bit of algae while we were there in early July. The area is very busy with boaters," notes a visitor at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area.
Frisbee golf: Big Sioux Recreation Area provides an on-site disc golf course for visitors seeking active recreation. "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," writes a camper who stayed at the park.
Kayaking opportunities: Watercraft rentals are available for exploring local waterways. "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 an enthusiastic visitor at River of the Double Bend Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Spring and early summer provide excellent bird watching opportunities around Lake Vermillion. "Spring was coming alive with gobbling turkeys and cackling pheasants; we even got a show from a strutting tom turkey. Overall, a quiet and scenic stay with great wildlife viewing and lake views," shares a reviewer.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Canistota area maintain high standards of cleanliness. A visitor at Lake Mitchell Campground noted, "The host here is the sweetest, busiest woman I've ever seen! The campgrounds are nice and shady. Restrooms and showers are clean! Price is very reasonable. $29 for tent site with electric."
Tent-specific areas: Dedicated tent camping zones offer more seclusion than RV sections. "There are four very nice tent only sites in one area. I would give it five stars but too many people during the season," explains a reviewer at Big Sioux Recreation Area.
Unique rock formations: For glamping close to Canistota, South Dakota, the quartzite formations at Palisades State Park Campground create a distinctive landscape. "This is a sweet little tucked away oasis near Sioux Falls featuring trails, bluffs and climbing options. Great views and clean camp sites," shares a visitor.
Picnic amenities: Specialized picnic tables enhance the glamping experience. "Picnic tables have built in sun covers which were really great and with winds I didn't experience any bugs or mosquitoes," reports a camper who appreciated these practical touches.
What you should know
Fee structure: State parks in the area have multi-tiered pricing. "I thought I was paying one fee for the non-e tent site but then there was an additional fee for non-res and another fee for park day use fee or permit. This fee was confusing whether I was supposed to pay this or not," warns a visitor to Big Sioux Recreation Area.
Seasonal algae: Lake conditions can change throughout summer. "There was hazardous algae in the water when we went, so couldn't swim," notes a camper at Lake Mitchell Campground.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "Our site was spacious enough for our 40' 5th wheel and F450. The electric hookup is at the back; we needed about 30' of cord. All sites here are electric only and nicely spaced apart," explains a camper at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area.
Non-resident fees: Out-of-state visitors face additional charges. "We had already paid the $30 a night plus $10 nonresident reservation fees, to find out starting this year we needed to pay a non-resident $15 a night state park fee or $60 for a year pass," notes a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Dakota Sunsets RV Park, "There is a nice little playground for the kids. Staff was friendly and helpful," according to a visitor.
Swimming options: Beach areas provide safe water access for children. "Spacious campsites right by the lake if desired. Plenty of things to do for kids with nice playground areas and hiking trails," notes a camper at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area.
Kid-friendly lodging: For luxury glamping near Canistota, South Dakota, specialty accommodations appeal to families. "We stayed in the TeePee and it was definitely an experience our family will cherish forever. Awesome staff as well," shares a visitor at Sioux Falls KOA.
Short hiking trails: Walking paths suitable for children exist throughout the area. "Otto Stream (no stream, no otters), which is about 1.5m trail thru restored prairie," describes a hiker, noting the manageable distance for younger visitors.
Tips from RVers
Hookup details: Electric-only sites require planning. "Our site was easy thanks to its corner location. As soon as we had settled in, the very friendly camp host come over to check us in," shares an RVer with a 40' fifth-wheel at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area.
Internet connectivity: Cellular and WiFi service varies by location. "Verizon had 3 bars, T-Mobile had 2, and our T-Mobile house internet clocked 207 Mbps down/3.49 Mbps up. Satellite reception should be fine in most sites except site 45, which is heavily shaded," reports an RV camper.
Seasonal availability: Most premium sites book quickly during summer months. "Residents of South Dakota love their camping, so book a site as early as allowable. I would recommend the east campground. Very pretty," advises a regular visitor.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full services. "The fresh water fill spigot is in a large pull-out on the right, past the boat launch and just before the 10 mph sign. The dump station is in the West Campground," notes an RVer sharing practical information.
