Pease Creek Recreation Area encompasses 600 acres along the Missouri River, providing both standard camping areas and specialized horse campsites. The equestrian facilities include five non-electric sites with individual corrals priced at $22 per night. The recreation area can be reached by traveling 9 miles south of Geddes off South Dakota Highway 1804. Water and electric hookups are available at the main campground, with sites costing $26 per night for electric service.
What to do
Explore river shorelines: Pease Creek offers extensive walking trails along the Missouri River shoreline where visitors can observe wildlife. Pease Creek Recreation Area visitors have spotted diverse wildlife, as one camper noted: "Saw mountain lion tracks along shore..." The area also attracts migrating birds and eagles.
Fishing opportunities: The recreation area provides access to the Missouri River's 102,000 acres of surface water. Winter camping is available, though with limited services. One December visitor reported: "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 viewing: Bird watching is particularly rewarding at Pease Creek. A winter visitor observed: "We were delighted with the company of 4 Bald Eagles. Hundreds of migrating Canadian Geese." The secluded setting creates excellent conditions for wildlife encounters throughout the year.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: The secluded nature of Pease Creek Recreation Area appeals to campers seeking solitude. As one visitor mentioned: "This is a very well maintained campground. We were here from December 08 through 12, 2024. Bathrooms and showers, along with water faucets, are all shut down for the season."
Clean facilities: Equestrian Campground — Niobrara State Park offers another horse camping option in the region. At Pease Creek, campers consistently mention the maintenance level: "Campground was empty showers hot, rest rooms clean and stocked will come here again."
Wooded campsites: The shaded sites provide natural protection from elements. One visitor noted the main campground has "23 sites 5 horsecamp sites... Secluded, well maintained, new comfort station, horsecamp I don't think any site is bad." The tree coverage is particularly valuable during windy conditions common in the area.
What you should know
Limited services: Seasonal restrictions affect amenities at Pease Creek horse campgrounds. "Open year round Oct 1–April 30 water systems may be shut down." Winter visitors should prepare accordingly with sufficient water supplies and expect closed shower facilities.
Staff availability varies: During off-peak periods, staff presence is minimal. One visitor noted: "We arrived and only one other person was there. There was no host or staff there. There were signs saying you must get approved firewood but no one was there to get the firewood which was frustrating."
Site limitations: The campground layout has some constraints for larger vehicles. "Short sites, narrow country road... meaning the camp and road are better suited for smaller rigs." RVers with larger setups should consider site selection carefully when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children visiting Pease Creek have access to recreational facilities within the campground. One reviewer mentioned: "Small playground for children. Small picnic area down the road between sites 8 and 9." These amenities provide entertainment options beyond water activities.
Safety precautions: Families should be aware of wildlife presence in the area. With reports of mountain lion tracks and the presence of large birds of prey, proper supervision of children is essential, especially near the shoreline areas.
Water recreation planning: The lake offers swimming opportunities, but families should note there are no lifeguarded areas. The boat ramp provides access for family boating excursions, but all watercraft users must follow the "CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY technique" to prevent spreading aquatic invasive species.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling conditions: RVers report generally good conditions for setup at Pease Creek. One camper noted: "Sites are gravel and, for the most part, level. We didn't require any leveling blocks at all. 50 - 30 - 20 amp service with no errors at the electric box."
Supply planning: The remote location requires advance planning. "Town is not nearby so fuel up and stock up before driving out!" RVers should arrive with all necessary supplies as convenience stores and markets are not available within the recreation area.
Reservation details: For horse campgrounds near Geddes, South Dakota, reservations can be made through South Dakota's system: "Reservations 800-710-2267 on line travel.compsd.com northpoint@state.sd.us." The state park entrance fee is separate from camping fees.
