South Dakota's Lake Francis Case offers primitive tent camping opportunities within a short drive of Fairfax. The reservoir stretches across 540 miles of shoreline, creating diverse camping environments throughout the region. Most sites sit at approximately 1,350 feet elevation, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and winters dropping below freezing. Winter camping remains available at several locations year-round, though services become limited.
What to do
Fishing from shore: South Shore Lakeside Use Area provides direct access to Lake Francis Case where anglers target walleye, northern pike, sauger, and channel catfish. The shoreline location means you can cast directly from your campsite. According to one camper at South Shore Lakeside Use Area, "Fishing from shore... walleye northern pike sauger sunfish perch common carp black bullhead channel catfish smallmouth bass."
Wildlife watching: During winter months, the area becomes a haven for bald eagle watching. One visitor noted, "Enjoy watching the bald Eagles during the winter months" at South Shore. Burke Lake Recreation Area offers additional wildlife viewing opportunities around its smaller lake environment.
Swimming: Several recreation areas feature designated swimming areas with beaches. A visitor described Burke Lake Recreation Area as "a great place to swim and get together." During peak summer months (June-August), the swimming beaches provide relief from South Dakota heat.
What campers like
Solitude and seclusion: Many campers appreciate the uncrowded nature of smaller recreation areas compared to larger campgrounds. A camper at South Shore Lakeside Use Area shared, "Away from other campers... I've been here twice now, once in mid to late fall and also late June and have been the only camper."
Mature trees and shade: Several campsites feature established trees providing natural shade during hot summer months. One recent visitor noted, "All sites seemed to have some shade, picnic table, and fire pit."
Clean facilities: Despite their primitive nature, campers frequently mention the maintenance of toilet facilities. South Scalp Creek maintains vault toilets that campers describe as clean and serviceable. A hunter staying at South Scalp Creek Recreation Area mentioned it "Had good spots for pitching a tent and had fire rings for a camp fire. Vault toilets were located in the camping area as well."
What you should know
Limited shopping access: The rural nature of the Fairfax area means limited options for supplies. A reviewer advises, "The area is rural and shopping can be difficult. I suggest buying local when possible but stock up before you arrive."
First-come, first-served system: Most camping areas operate without reservations. Sites fill quickly on holiday weekends, particularly July 4th. A regular visitor to South Shore Lakeside Use Area observed, "I do see a reserve for the 4th Of July weekend and that is to be expected."
Primitive amenities: Prepare for basic facilities at most sites. One camper described South Shore as having "one pit toilet, clean, no hookups so no RVs, except me, a great view from any site." Bring sufficient water supplies as drinking water is not available at most locations.
Road noise: Some campsites sit near roadways. A camper at South Shore noted, "Only negative point is it's close to the street. But since there is not a lot of traffic it was pretty quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: Several camping areas include adjacent swimming beaches with gradual entry points suitable for younger children. Lakota Youth Development - Tipi Stays offers a unique cultural camping experience with more developed facilities including showers and toilets that may better accommodate families with small children.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be prevalent near water, especially in early summer. Pack appropriate repellent as recommended by one visitor: "Bring your insect spray and enjoy."
Campsite selection: When tent camping with children, select sites further from shore during windy conditions. Sites with natural windbreaks from trees provide better protection for tents and camping equipment.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most sites near Fairfax lack electrical, water and sewer hookups. RVs must be self-contained. One RV camper at South Shore Lakeside Use Area noted they were the exception rather than the rule: "no hookups so no RVs, except me."
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive camping areas may be unpaved or minimally maintained. One reviewer described South Shore access as "the road is in good shape and the campground is exceptional for a primitive site," but conditions vary seasonally.
Overnight convenience: Several campers mention using the best tent camping near Fairfax, South Dakota as convenient overnight stops during longer journeys. A traveler remarked, "Really nice stop on our road trip and will stay again for sure."
