Camping opportunities near Glenham, South Dakota range across wooded lakeshores and open prairie settings along the Missouri River system. The region sits at approximately 1,750 feet elevation and experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly reaching 85-95°F in July and August, while winter temperatures often drop well below freezing from November through March. Spring and fall shoulder seasons tend to provide the most comfortable camping conditions with moderate temperatures and fewer insects.
What to do
Fishing access: At West Pollock Recreation Area, anglers can take advantage of boat ramps for accessing Lake Oahe's walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. "The lake looks like it would be great for going out on a boat and fishing," notes one visitor who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Lake Hiddenwood Recreation Area provide opportunities for spotting deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. "The campground is quiet and well maintained. It is newly reopened after being completely flooded in 2018. There is no longer a lake here," explains one camper about this changing landscape.
Farm exploration: Visitors staying at Lazy Sy Acres can walk the property's natural grasslands with the owner. According to one guest: "Michael has worked with government programs to make portions of this retired farm natural grasslands. He planted rows of cedars, plums, chokecherry and pear to attract pheasants- deer appreciate it too."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathroom facilities at Indian Memorial. One reviewer noted: "There are two bathroom facilities with showers that are extremely clean and up to date!" Another camper appreciated the overall grounds, stating "Sites and roads are paved and easily navigable."
Shade coverage: The mature trees at many campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Lots of large trees offer shade to most of their 81 RV slots. Grass surrounds each site and a picnic table and fire ring complete the accommodations," reports a visitor to Indian Memorial.
Value pricing: Several campgrounds offer senior discounts and reasonable nightly rates. One reviewer at Indian Memorial noted: "Regular charge per night is $25.00 but the charge for seniors 55 and older is $15.00. That's a bargain for what you get in return."
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require travel on unpaved routes. A visitor to Lake Hiddenwood Recreation Area mentioned: "It is difficult to find, and down several miles of well maintained dusty gravel roads. There isn't any signage (at least from the direction we came)."
Seasonal closures: Water systems at most campgrounds shut down by mid-October. A regular camper at West Pollock Recreation Area shares: "There are showers and toilets in the park but the water is usually shut off by the time we arrive which is usually about the 3rd weekend of October."
Reservation systems: Most lakeside campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends and holiday periods. Many smaller campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis with limited or no reservation options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Country Cabins & RV Park offers play areas for children near the camping area. "Close to Tr 12. Small town of Mobridge has groceries and gas," notes one family that appreciated the convenience to supplies.
Wildlife encounters: Morning and evening wildlife viewing opportunities can engage children. At multiple campgrounds, resident turkey flocks make regular appearances. One camper at Indian Memorial observed: "A resident flock of wild turkeys reside at the campground and are regular visitors as it gets dark."
Weather preparation: Summer thunderstorms develop quickly in this region. Sites with good drainage prevent camping disruptions. According to one camper at West Pollock: "It rained while we were there, and the sites drained quickly."
Tips from RVers
Power considerations: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups, but amperage varies. "Power as you would expect, 50, 30, 15 amp service. EMS showed no faults in electrical connections," reports an RV camper at West Pollock Recreation Area.
Site spacing: RVers appreciate campgrounds with adequate room between sites. One visitor to Country Cabins & RV Park reported: "Clean roomy campground" while another noted the "big sites" available for larger rigs.
Water availability: While electric hookups are common, water at the site is less available. As one RVer at West Pollock Recreation Area reported: "Potable water at shower house and dump station" but not at individual sites.
