North Point Recreation Area and Buryanek Recreation Area feature RV and tent sites along the Missouri River, with convenient access to Lake Francis Case. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and boating conditions. The region's camping options include traditional campsites with electrical hookups, basic cabins, and cultural experiences such as traditional Lakota tipis, all within proximity to small towns like Burke, Armour, and Pickstown.
What to do
Fishing from beaches: Multiple fishing spots at North Point Recreation Area provide shore access without needing a boat. "We enjoy fishing, walking the trails, and seeing the wildlife," notes Angela W., highlighting the accessibility of fishing opportunities.
Paddleboarding across state lines: Launch from riverside campsites for unique water adventures. "Sunset paddle boarding on the river was a real treat. Kinda cool to say you SUP'd from South Dakota to Nebraska with a beer on the board," shares Morgan Y. about their North Point experience.
Playground access for children: Buryanek Recreation Area maintains play equipment near camping areas. "It is a nice place and has a nice playground," mentions Tila H., making it suitable for families with younger children.
Walking trails: North Point features the 1.2-mile North Shore Path loop trail suitable for all skill levels. "Walking paths, fishing and golf nearby," notes Bob M., indicating multiple outdoor activities within reach of the campsites.
What campers like
Large, well-spaced sites: Buryanek Recreation Area offers generous camping spaces. "Spacious campground. Very nice," shares James P., who appreciated that there was "a lot of room between sites."
Beach access from campsites: Some locations feature direct water access via pathways. "There were stairs down from our campsite to a gravel beach. Water was warm in Lake Francis Case on the Missouri River," notes Leslie B. about her Buryanek experience.
Concrete pads at city parks: Armour Lions Park provides improved camping surfaces. "I know 5 were concrete slabs, the rest gravel," explains Ila R., detailing the mix of site types available at this small city park.
Quiet evenings despite full campgrounds: Even during peak season, campers report peaceful conditions. "Although the park was full when we visited (July) we had plenty of space on either side of us and it was surprisingly quiet given that the camp was full," Sarah S. observed at North Point Recreation Area.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some recreation areas require traversing unmaintained routes. "Access to this area is off highway 44 but be prepared for several miles of minimally maintained dirt road (with some big hills) to get there," cautions Scott P. about Buryanek Recreation Area.
Seasonal tree issues: Cottonwood trees shed seeds during certain periods. "Very nice and well kept facilities but beware there are lots of cottonwoods and at times during our stay it looked like it was snowing," advises Scott P. about Buryanek.
Payment systems can be confusing: City parks often use donation-based systems with unclear pricing. "It's a little confusing in price/paying. There is a box that says $10 donation. A sign that says $15 donation," reports Ila R. about Armour Lions Park.
Navigation challenges: Recreation areas can be difficult to locate. "This is a beautiful park but a bit confusing to get to. Once you turn off the highway you will pass a couple of boat ramps and then a private campground on the right side," explains N I. about North Point Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity matters: Select sites near swimming areas for convenience with children. "Camp site was near beach, fishing dock and playground for the kids!" recommends Rebekah M. from her stay at North Point Recreation Area.
Consider yurt camping near Fairfax, South Dakota: Alternative shelters like yurts at Carney Park provide unique family accommodations. "We had a great one night stay when we were passing through O'Neil on our way to South Dakota. Cute town, ok bath house and a cute play park with swings, etc.," shares Carissa W.
Bathroom facilities vary in quality: Check recent reviews about maintenance status. "Bathrooms needed cleaning," notes Glenda about Carney Park, while at Buryanek Recreation Area, another camper mentioned, "Washroom was clean and stocked."
Look for shelter options: Some sites include covered areas for weather protection. "Shelters at each site. Picnic table and fire rings, too," notes Leslie B. about her Buryanek experience, providing protection from sun or light rain.
Tips from RVers
Electric connections may need inspection: Check power boxes before setting up. "The electrical boxes are so buggy and cobwebby and dusty that it's hard to find a properly grounded working electric box," cautions Lucky C. about their experience at Armour Lions Park.
Site sizing requires verification: When booking at North Point Recreation Area, check specifications carefully. "When you are making reservations check site size because there are different lengths," advises N I., noting the importance for larger rigs.
Municipal campgrounds offer affordable alternatives: Small town parks provide basic services at lower costs. "Water and electric with pad and picnic tables and trees for $20!" shares lee's freelance M. about their Carney Park stay, noting it's "very nice for an overnight spot."
