Equestrian camping options near Canton, South Dakota require careful planning as dedicated horse facilities are limited. The area sits within the rolling prairie landscape of eastern South Dakota, where forested hills meet agricultural lands at elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, with winter lows often below freezing, creating varied trail conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Big Sioux Recreation Area maintains a complete disc golf course within the park boundaries. "Frisbee golf course" is available for campers according to Tyson K., who notes the course is conveniently located near the camping areas.
Trail exploration: Multiple hiking paths at Newton Hills State Park offer woodland experiences through diverse terrain. "Beautiful, quiet, shaded, level sites with plenty of space between. Great trails and a short scenic road, plus some nice open spaces," states Victor E.
Suspension bridge walk: A short hike from the campground at Big Sioux Recreation Area leads to a unique suspension walking bridge. Tyson K. mentions, "Took a short walk on their trail system to the suspension walking bridge," making it an accessible feature for most visitors.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear prairie skies provide excellent night viewing conditions at Newton Hills. Victor E. specifically notes "Great stargazing" as a highlight of staying at this location, particularly in sites away from artificial lighting.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: Union Grove State Park offers individual bathroom units rather than communal facilities. Austin and Natasha S. describe them as "immaculate, and smell so nice," noting that "Shower rooms/bathrooms are immaculate," providing a level of privacy not found at many campgrounds.
Wooded tent sites: Several Union Grove State Park campsites feature tree cover that's uncommon in this mostly open region. Leni K. recommends specific sites: "We had the best tent site on the grounds, corner spot with decent trees and distance... Would definitely come back for a longer stay if we could get #4 or #5 for sure."
Non-electric tent areas: Big Sioux Recreation Area provides dedicated non-electric tent camping zones separate from RV areas. Tyson K. explains, "The non-e tent sites are in a forested section, all shaded. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings. Sites are located a very short walk from the designated parking."
Playground access: Family-friendly features at Newton Hills appeal to those with children. Zach E. notes there are "plenty of parks and paved roadways to wander around on," while Isaac E. mentions "great playgrounds" making it suitable for families with young children.
What you should know
Fee structure complexity: Multiple separate fees can apply at area campgrounds. Tyson K. cautions about Big Sioux: "My complaint would be the fees. 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."
Highway noise considerations: Some sites at W.H. Lyon Fairground experience road noise due to proximity to major highways. Glenda notes "Area along fence borders highway with much closer sites and road noise. We opted for area on grass near arena," suggesting location selection matters at this campground.
Water level variability: Lake conditions at Newton Hills fluctuate seasonally. Zach E. mentions "the lake is currently dried up but that's no one's fault!" indicating water-based activities may be limited during dry periods.
Site spacing differences: Big Sioux Recreation Area offers variable site spacing. Nathan L. describes tent site 24 as "tucked into the woods but still close to the parking lot" with "neighboring sites are far enough away where you still have privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity consideration: At Big Sioux, tent sites near play areas may experience higher foot traffic. Carolyn M. notes tent sites "were right on the edge of the playground, so the families had to walk right through my campsite to get to the play area."
Kid-friendly hiking limitations: Some trails at Newton Hills Campground may be challenging for younger children. Zach E. suggests "more established, kid friendly trails into the woods" would improve the experience, indicating current trails may require adult supervision.
Family campsite selection: Newton Hills offers sites specifically well-suited for families with children. Nicholas S. shares, "I had an amazing time at Newton Hills Campground in South Dakota with my family and young children. The spacious and clean facilities provided the perfect backdrop for our outdoor getaway."
Noise levels by day: Union Grove State Park experiences different noise levels between weekdays and weekends. Leslie B. mentions "Convenient to the interstate, but that also means some highway noise if you are not in a hard sided camper," suggesting families with light sleepers should plan accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for sun exposure: Newton Hills sites have variable sun coverage throughout the day. Sally C. cautions "Many campsites are almost full sun—so have your shade structure ready" for RVers concerned about temperature management during summer months.
Fairground alternative: When traditional campgrounds are full, W.H. Lyon Fairground provides basic RV accommodations near Sioux Falls. Dakota M. explains it "has no playground, swimming pool, etc." but offers "full hookups, clean restrooms and showers," making it functional though not resort-like.
