Campers visiting rv campgrounds near Geddes, South Dakota have access to Missouri River recreation along 540 miles of shoreline created by Fort Randall Dam in 1953. The area maintains moderate temperatures during summer camping season, typically ranging from 65°F-85°F with occasional thunderstorms. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though water systems typically shut down from October through April when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Boating and fishing access: Pease Creek Recreation Area offers excellent water recreation with a boat ramp and 600 acres for outdoor activities. "This area provides all types of water sports, winter sports, wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting," notes one visitor who appreciated the diverse recreation options.
Wildlife viewing: The riverside campgrounds provide opportunities to observe native wildlife. "We were delighted with the company of 4 Bald Eagles. Hundreds of migrating Canadian Geese," reports a winter visitor who stayed in December when the area was nearly empty.
Horseback riding: Horse trails are available for equestrians with proper documentation. "You will find a fire ring picnic table horse corral vault toilets water spigots. Generator may be used from 8 am to 9 pm. Dogs must be on a ten foot leash. Make sure out of state horses have proper documentation for health."
Swimming beaches: North Point Recreation Area maintains beaches for summer swimming. "Camp site was near beach, fishing dock and playground for the kids!" mentions one satisfied camper who appreciated the family-friendly amenities.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Waterfront sites provide memorable views and direct water access. "If you pick a site on the water (as we did) you can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Missouri River and the rolling hills of the southern shore," reports a visitor to North Point Recreation Area.
Affordable camping options: Paulson RV Park offers budget-friendly rates for both short and long-term stays. "Super cheap too. $200 per month for long term plus electric you are responsible for and $15 per day for short term. Cheaper if you are just going to park or pop a tent."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "Campground was empty showers hot, rest rooms clean and stocked will come here again," notes a visitor to Pease Creek Recreation Area who appreciated the maintenance standards.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite full occupancy during peak season, many campers report peaceful conditions. "Although the park was full when we visited (July) we had plenty of space on either side of us and it was surprisingly quiet given that the camp was full."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Water systems at most campgrounds close during colder months. "We were here from December 08 through 12, 2024. Bathrooms and showers, along with water faucets, are all shut down for the season," reports a winter visitor who found Pease Creek Recreation Area operational but with limited services.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "The road in is a very narrow country road meaning the camp and road are better suited for smaller rigs," cautions a reviewer about access limitations.
Site variations: Campgrounds offer different site sizes and hookup options. "When you are making reservations check site size because there are different lengths," advises a camper at North Point Recreation Area.
Aquatic invasive species prevention: Big River Marsh RV Park and other waterfront campgrounds require boaters to follow clean, drain, dry protocols. "If you put a vessel of any type into the water please CDD. Clean, Drain, Dry for prevention."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campsites near recreational amenities for convenience. "Camp site was near beach, fishing dock and playground for the kids!" recommends a family who enjoyed North Point Recreation Area's family-friendly layout.
Cabin options: Famil-E-Fun Campground & RV Park offers alternatives to tent camping for families wanting more comfort. "We stopped at Betts for a night on our way to the Black Hills and it was a great stop. The Corn Palace is near by and our kids had a great time in the outdoor pool."
Outdoor pools: Some campgrounds maintain swimming pools for children when river swimming conditions are unfavorable. "The outdoor pool" was highlighted as a major attraction for families, with one visitor noting it was "a very friendly family owns the place."
Activity variety: Campgrounds often provide multiple recreation options within walking distance. "Firing range, lawn games, biking, swimming, boating, volleyball, disc golf" are available at certain locations, allowing families to engage in different activities without traveling.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: White Lake Lodge & RV Campground provides complete services for self-contained camping. "Full hookups at sites. Some road noise since the interstate is close by," notes a camper who appreciated the amenities despite the highway proximity.
Site leveling: Most RV sites feature gravel pads requiring minimal leveling equipment. "I stayed in a pull-through site #5 which was mostly gravel and pretty level - about 2" on one side with Anderson levelers," reports an RVer who found the accommodations adequate for overnight stays.
Winter camping considerations: Electric service remains reliable year-round at most campgrounds. "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," notes a December visitor to Pease Creek Recreation Area.
Cell service variability: Mobile connectivity depends on proximity to towns. "Verizon connection was good and I could stream live TV on Hulu," reports one camper, while others mention that service becomes less reliable in more remote water-based recreation areas.
