Pease Creek Recreation Area offers dedicated equestrian camping facilities 9 miles south of Geddes off South Dakota Highway 1804. The 600-acre recreation area provides direct access to Missouri River shoreline trails through wooded terrain. Horse campers have access to 5 non-electric sites with corrals at $22 per night, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. The campground remains operational year-round, though campers should note water systems typically shut down from October through April.
What to do
Horseback riding on riverside trails: The equestrian trails at Pease Creek Recreation Area cover 600 acres along the Missouri River shoreline. As one visitor notes, "This area provides all types of water sports, winter sports, wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting." The terrain offers varied riding conditions through wooded areas with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wildlife observation: Birdwatching opportunities are particularly notable during migration seasons. "We were delighted with the company of 4 Bald Eagles. Hundreds of migrating Canadian Geese," reports one Pease Creek Recreation Area camper who visited in December.
Water recreation: The Missouri River provides boating, fishing and swimming opportunities with boat ramp access near the campground. "Right outside the area is a privately owned campground that looked like it was expanding so that will add to the boatramp traffic and noise," notes one visitor, indicating increasing popularity of water activities in the area.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: The wooded setting creates private camping spaces with natural protection from wind and weather. One camper at Pease Creek Recreation Area mentioned, "We stayed on site 9 and enjoyed the shelter all the trees provided. Wind was 24 mph gusts hit 45 mph and didn't affect us at all."
Wildlife encounters: Visitors frequently report impressive wildlife sightings. A camper observed, "A wooded campground, about .25 mile walk/drive to the river. Clean bathrooms and vault toilets. Nice shoreline to stroll along with dogs. Saw mountain lion tracks along shore."
Low visitor density: The recreation area typically maintains a quiet atmosphere with moderate usage levels. According to one visitor, "The campground was pretty quiet and mostly deserted when we overnighted. It was dark, quiet and plenty of sites to choose from."
What you should know
Local firewood regulations: Due to the threat of Emerald Ash Borer, transporting firewood from other states is discouraged. A Carney Park visitor noted similar restrictions in the region, emphasizing the importance of purchasing firewood locally.
Documentation for horses: Health papers and proper documentation are required for out-of-state horses using the equestrian facilities. Generator use is limited to hours between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. to maintain the quiet atmosphere.
Limited services: While electric hookups are available at some sites, the campground has minimal facilities during off-season periods. "Bathrooms and showers, along with water faucets, are all shut down for the season," reports a December visitor, indicating seasonal limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: A small playground provides recreation options for children within the campground boundaries. Carney Park offers similar family-friendly features, with one visitor noting, "Cute town, ok bath house and a cute play park with swings, etc. Quiet at night."
Hiking opportunities: Family-friendly walking paths follow the shoreline for nature exploration. The terrain is generally accessible for most ages and abilities, with paths leading directly from the campground to the river.
Site selection: Campsites vary in size and shade coverage. "Sites are gravel and, for the most part, level. We didn't require any leveling blocks at all," notes one visitor, though they caution, "Sites 4 and 8 were covered with large seed pods from the trees. I imagine it would sound like branches hitting your camper when they fall in the fall."
Tips from RVers
Electric service reliability: RV campers report consistent electrical service with no issues. "50 - 30 - 20 amp service with no errors at the electric box," reports one Equestrian Campground — Niobrara State Park visitor, noting electrical reliability is common at horse campgrounds near Fairfax, South Dakota.
Road access considerations: The access roads to some horse campgrounds in the region have limitations. "The road in is a very narrow country road meaning the camp and road are better suited for smaller rigs," cautions one visitor about Pease Creek specifically.
Self-contained preparation: During off-season visits, RVers should arrive self-contained. "We were here from December 08 through 12. Bathrooms and showers, along with water faucets, are all shut down for the season," notes a winter visitor, highlighting the importance of bringing adequate water supplies during colder months.
