The Garretson area sits where Split Rock Creek cuts through Sioux quartzite formations, creating unique geological features uncommon in eastern South Dakota. Located about 20 miles northeast of Sioux Falls, camping options span from state park facilities to family-oriented private campgrounds. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions.
What to do
Hiking quartzite formations: At Palisades State Park Campground, trails wind through distinctive pink quartzite rock formations along Split Rock Creek. "This local spot is an unexpected beautiful spot in the landscape. The amenities are limited but its refreshing," notes Miranda M. The park offers several hiking paths suitable for various skill levels.
Swimming and water activities: Summer visitors can cool off at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area where designated swimming areas provide relief from heat. "There is a very nice sand beach, playgrounds, fishing, star gazing, and four campgrounds," reports John D. The lake allows motorized boats, kayaking, and fishing opportunities throughout the warmer months.
Family entertainment: Sioux Falls Yogi Bear offers scheduled activities and recreational facilities. "Everything from laser tag to chocolate milk chugging contests. The sites were extremely well maintained. Saturday night was the yogi bear parade and it was the highlight of our entire stay," shares Alec S. These organized events run primarily from April through October.
What campers like
Convenient location: Lake Vermillion Recreation Area provides easy access for travelers. "Good stopover site on way to black hills. We stayed here at site 69 E for one night in August 2020. Nice, clean campground with partial shade in some sites," writes Kathy L. The campground sits approximately 30 minutes from Sioux Falls.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings available at less developed campgrounds. "We stayed in one of the four designated tent sites. You have to park and haul your gear to the site, but it is a short and easy walk. The 4 tent sites are near each other, yet feel secluded and private," notes Stacia R. about Palisades State Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Dakota Sunsets RV Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "The attention to detail you see in this park is not something we have seen a lot during our travels. The gravel roadways to each campsite are groomed perfectly level. Art, sculptures and flower pots are everywhere," reports Robert O. Most campgrounds in the area feature regularly serviced restrooms and shower facilities.
What you should know
Non-resident fees apply: South Dakota state parks charge additional fees for out-of-state visitors. "South Dakota charges a day use fee ($6) plus a fee for tent camping ($17); I opted to pay for an Annual Pass of $30 since I plan on doing more SD camping this year," explains May M. These fees apply at both Palisades State Park and Lake Vermillion Recreation Area.
Limited tree cover: Some campgrounds offer minimal shade, particularly in newer sections. "[Palisades has] King, a recently built campground, sits on the prairie and provides beautiful views of Split Rock Creek," notes Tim R. Travelers camping during summer should prepare for direct sun exposure at many sites.
Reservation requirements: Most rv campgrounds near Garretson, South Dakota fill quickly during summer weekends. "Residents of South Dakota love their camping, so book a site as early as allowable," advises John D. Reservations can typically be made 90-180 days in advance depending on the facility.
Tips for camping with families
Choose activity-focused campgrounds: Pipestone Family Campground provides facilities specifically for children. "Campground was nearly full of local campers but the kids played great together. Decent pool & showers, fun activities like bags tournaments and a potluck," shares S.G. The campground maintains a swimming pool and organized weekend activities during summer.
Consider accessibility needs: Some campgrounds offer better amenities for families with young children. "Our family spent a long weekend here enjoying all of the activities they had to offer. The sites were extremely well maintained. Restrooms were aging but were well cleaned and taken care of," notes Alec S. about Sioux Falls Yogi Bear.
Pack for variable weather: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations even during summer. Morning temperatures can be cool while afternoons heat up considerably. Layered clothing and adequate sun protection are essential when camping with children in this area.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: The region offers varying RV site dimensions across different campgrounds. "The super nice and informative couple who own the campground checked us in and then we were escorted to pull through site 41 with FHUs. The site was more than long enough for our 39' 5th Wheel and F-450 truck," explains MickandKarla W. about Dakota Sunsets RV Park.
Internet connectivity considerations: For those needing to stay connected, connectivity varies significantly between rv campgrounds Garretson, South Dakota area. "WiFi was average but there were not many RVs in the park for our 3 nights stay, and we got 4 bars on Verizon," notes MickandKarla W. "King also offers free Wi-Fi with a download speed of 22 Mbps, while Queen has no T-Mobile service," adds Tim R. about Palisades State Park.
Seasonal availability awareness: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Most private RV parks in the region close between late October and mid-April, while some state facilities maintain limited winter operations with reduced services.
