Hartford Beach State Park Campground in Corona, South Dakota sits on the western shore of Big Stone Lake at an elevation of about 1,000 feet. The park features upper and lower camping areas with distinct terrain differences – the upper area consisting of open, level sites while the lower area offers wooded lakeside spots that can be uneven. Most camping facilities in the Corona area remain open from May through September with varying levels of services during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Hiking trails: Hartford Beach State Park offers several hiking paths that connect the upper and lower camping areas. One camper noted, "They have nice hiking trails" while another mentioned discovering "the dock and bridge near our site" while exploring the trails.
Fishing access: The Corona area provides multiple fishing opportunities along Big Stone Lake. At Lac qui Parle Upper Campground, campers can access "boat/canoe launch in lower campground about 10 minutes from Upper Campground" making it convenient for anglers.
Wildlife viewing: The region attracts diverse bird populations, particularly at Big Stone Lake. A visitor to Big Stone Lake State Park Campground observed "lots of wildlife and nice trails. Fishing is free from the park boundaries with lots of shoreline."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas for summer recreation. At Memorial Park, sites are "close to beach, fishing dock and close to playground for kids!" making it easy to enjoy water activities.
What campers like
Midweek tranquility: Many campgrounds experience significantly lower occupancy during weekdays. One Hartford Beach camper reported, "Very nicely maintained campground and facilities. Mid week stay so nearly empty."
Sunset views: Lakefront campsites provide exceptional sunset viewing opportunities. At Camping 109 RV Park, a camper noted the park was "near a river" while at Hartford Beach, another remarked, "Spectacular sunsets and sunrises. Cell phone pictures do not do it justice."
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates compared to more popular tourist destinations. City Park in Browns Valley provides "functional park with hookups and shade" at reasonable prices, while Pomme De Terre Campground offers "water and electric. Bathhouse, walking trails, fishing and beautiful lake views" described as "well worth the money."
Lake access: Multiple Memorial Park visitors appreciate the waterfront location, with one noting it's "right on beautiful lake Kampseka" providing "clean, quiet, open space."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Lower campground sites at Hartford Beach can require additional setup work. A camper warned, "The sites near the lake are very wooded, a bit smaller and pretty uneven. The sites themselves are even but your canopy might be overhanging a slope."
Seasonal mosquitoes: Insect activity can be significant, especially after rain. A visitor to Lac qui Parle Upper Campground observed, "The mosquitos were awful. Stayed right after a mosquito hatch sadly."
Variable cellular coverage: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. At Hartford Beach, "Cell signal: Good (Verizon)" while at Lac qui Parle, a camper reported "Verizon cell signal is poor."
Weekend availability: RV campgrounds near Corona, South Dakota fill quickly during weekends. A visitor to Lakewood Supper Club RV Park noted, "There are normally no open sites, we are told, as they are all rented for the season."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. At Pomme De Terre Campground, families enjoy "walking trails, fishing and beautiful lake views" with "bathhouse" facilities that work well for family needs.
Beach activities: Big Stone Lake State Park Campground provides "a very relaxing evening at the campground. The hiking trails were very enjoyable and the swimming beach looked very nice."
Site selection: For family groups, the upper campground at Hartford Beach offers significantly more space. A reviewer emphasized the difference: "The upper sites are HUGE and very near nice! The bathrooms where clean as well as campsites."
Off-season visits: For quieter family camping experiences, consider spring or fall trips. Big Stone Lake State Park has "canoe rentals an ok trail system and a great swimming beach" with fewer crowds outside summer peak.
Tips from RVers
Upper vs. lower campground choice: RVers should carefully consider site location at Hartford Beach. A reviewer explained: "There are 2 separate camp areas with 2 completely different types of sites. The sites near the lake are very wooded, a bit smaller and pretty uneven."
Full hookup availability: Year-round RV camping options exist at Camping 109 RV Park where "the sites are roomy and well maintained as the owner mowed the sites often" and accepts Passport America discounts for 50% off rates.
Site spacing: RV campgrounds around Corona offer varying degrees of privacy. At Lac qui Parle, "Lots of space between sites. There are not many trees so not much shade. Sites are gravel and relatively level, not much leveling required."
Utility distances: Electric hookup placement can require planning. At Hartford Beach State Park, "The electric hook up is pretty far from the picnic table/fire ring area. Have a long cord."
