Best Campgrounds near Madison, SD

Camping near Madison, South Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

• Hiking and Exploring: Check out the trails at Newton Hills Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Great trails and a short scenic road, plus some nice open spaces." The park is perfect for a leisurely hike or a family adventure.
• Fishing and Swimming: At Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, you can enjoy a swim or cast a line. A reviewer noted, "Nice swim area, pretty campsites, especially the tent areas that sit high over the lake."
• Disc Golf: If you're into disc golf, Big Sioux Recreation Area has a course that many campers rave about. One camper said, "The disc golf course really took this park to the next level."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Palisades State Park Campground remarked, "Bathrooms are exceptionally clean. Showers great."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Dakota Campground, offer roomy sites. A camper shared, "Full service pull through sites fully shaded."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Mitchell KOA said, "Mark was a very helpful host and takes the time to set you up in your spot."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or activities. A visitor at Sioux Falls KOA noted, "Lots of noise since it’s off the highway."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A camper at Lake Mitchell Campground mentioned, "I did not rate it 5 stars because it does not have a lot of amenities."
• Busy Weekends: If you plan to visit during peak times, be prepared for crowds. A reviewer at Newton Hills Campground said, "It was very busy with lots of families out and about."

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. One family at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park said, "It was an absolute blast for our kids with plenty of activities to keep them entertained."
• Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds that offer larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area noted, "Well spaced and clean RV sites."
• Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check for nearby dining options. A reviewer at Big Sioux Recreation Area mentioned, "We got a good run in. My husband biked over to Brandon to get a good ride."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure the campground can accommodate your RV size. A visitor at Mitchell KOA said, "This campground has lots of RV and tent sites."
• Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Dakota Campground shared, "Full hookup sites, swimming pool and a small arcade for the kids."
• Be Prepared for Weather: Check the forecast before you go. A reviewer at Palisades State Park Campground mentioned, "We were very happy to stay somewhere without a fire ban."

Camping around Madison, SD, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat.