Campers visiting Fort Pierre, South Dakota find themselves at the confluence of the Missouri and Bad Rivers, with the Missouri River serving as the natural boundary between Fort Pierre and the state capital of Pierre. The area sits at approximately 1,450 feet elevation with hot summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from spring through fall, though Griffin Park offers year-round camping options with reduced winter rates.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Oahe Downstream Recreation Area offers excellent fishing spots along the Missouri River. "We usually get site 196 facing the River. The bird watching is wonderful here and the Bald Eagles will put on a show for you," notes a camper at Campground 3 — Oahe Downstream Recreation Area.
Biking trails: Access the Lewis and Clark Trail directly from Griffin Park for cycling along the river. "You are right on the Lewis and Clark Trail for riding," notes one reviewer. Griffin Park provides an excellent starting point with electric sites located near the trail.
Wildlife viewing: Visit the Verendrye monument near River View RV Park for historical context and wildlife spotting. "Check out the Verendrye monument just down the road, it's a surprising bit of history from 400 years ago!" shares a visitor at River View RV Park.
Water recreation: Explore the Missouri River by boat from access points near most campgrounds. "Just upriver is the Oahe Downstream Rec Area, a great place to swim and fish, or go off-leash with the dog on the T-Jetty," mentions a River View RV Park camper.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the room between sites at Richland Reservoir dispersed camping, a free option outside town. "Very remote campsite, but easy to find off of the main road using the coordinates from here. The space is huge and there is plenty of room to spread out."
Cleanliness: Reviewers consistently note well-maintained facilities throughout the area. "Bathhouse immaculate. Showers great. Good walking paths for humans and dogs and saw many folks cycling," writes one camper about Oahe Downstream Recreation Area.
River views: Multiple campgrounds offer direct views of the Missouri River. "We stayed Fischer Lily Park campground, but went over to Griffin Park to shower. You really can't go wrong with either campground," explains one reviewer of Griffin Park.
Affordable options: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates. "Griffin Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis with fees collected via honor box ($25 during summer, $10 in winter)," notes a camper, highlighting the seasonal price difference.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most rv parks in Fort Pierre are open from spring through fall. "We came in September so there was hardly anyone around. Very peaceful," reports a camper at Oahe Downstream Recreation Area.
Access roads: Some sites require driving on gravel roads. "Getting there left a bit to be desired. The road to the park is gravel, and the signage doesn't exist!" notes a reviewer of River View RV Park.
Hookup variations: Electric-only sites are common at many campgrounds. "The sites are electric only but you can fill water before you come in. Sites are spacious with gravel," explains an Oahe Downstream visitor.
Weather preparedness: The area can experience sudden weather changes. "Around sunset some storms rolled by and the wind kicked up something fierce! We closed up the awnings in a panic and hunkered down. The wind howled all night!!!" warns a camper at Fischers Lilly Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: River View RV Park offers family-friendly facilities. "Playground, basketball goal, sand volleyball for the kids," mentions one reviewer, making it suitable for active children.
Beach activities: Several campgrounds feature river access with beach areas. "There is a swimming beach, a nice playground, hiking trails, and great fishing spots," notes a reviewer at Oahe Downstream.
Educational opportunities: Visit state museums in Pierre. "For RVers seeking family activities, the location right on the banks of the Missouri River can't be beat, and it's the perfect location for exploring all that the Pierre area has to offer: the state capitol complex, the museums," recommends a camper.
Recreation variety: Oahe Downstream Recreation Area offers diverse activities. "Oahe also offers an archery range, shooting range, disc golf and horseshoe pits, a marina and bike rentals," shares a satisfied visitor from Richland reservoir dispersed camping.
Tips from RVers
Dump stations: Plan where to empty tanks if staying at electric-only sites. "You can find water and a dump station at Fischers Lilly Park in Pierre to the north," advises a Richland Reservoir camper.
Site selection: At Fischers Lilly Park, choose sites carefully. "We thought we might hear local town noise, but we didn't. Campground is small and basic, but we've paid a lot more for a lot less. $15 for water, electric and dump station."
Weather protection: Winter camping options are limited but available. "We visited in March and it was soooo cold. Didn't come out of camper except to walk dogs. When we came in our water hookup was frozen so they moved us to a spot where they had a heated cover on water pipe," shares an RV owner at River View RV Park.
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies by location. "I used a cell booster with a 20ft antenna to get cell service. Your mileage may vary," notes a Richland Reservoir visitor, providing helpful information for remote workers.
