Lake Thompson Recreation Area and nearby campgrounds provide diverse options for yurt camping near Huron, South Dakota. This east-central South Dakota region features rolling prairies and natural lakes at approximately 1,800 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while winter camping faces sub-freezing conditions and significant snowfall.
What to do
Water activities on natural lakes: At Lake Louise Recreation Area, visitors can rent kayaks and canoes for exploring the water. "There are kayaks and canoes to rent, docks to fish from and hiking trails," notes a camper who stayed multiple weeks.
Historical exploration: The Ingalls Homestead offers hands-on pioneer activities just minutes from De Smet. "There's a one-room school house with tours, a barn with animals, a covered wagon ride where you (or your kids) can lead the horse-drawn wagon, opportunities to learn how to make a jump rope, twist hay, wash clothes," explains one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Thompson features dedicated fishing areas with proper equipment. "Great fishing spots with cleaning stations available," mentions a reviewer who appreciated the practical amenities for anglers.
Trail walking: Multiple campgrounds offer walking paths through prairie landscapes. At Lake Mitchell Campground, "nice swim area, pretty campsites, especially the tent areas that sit high over the lake and have pretty views of the water," according to a recent visitor.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Free or donation-based camping exists in the region. At Crystal Park in Miller, campers appreciate the "free electric camping on grass in city park for 72 hrs! Lots of trees and/open spaces. Bath house/tornado shelter when needed. Easy walk to stores in the small downtown area."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. A Lake Mitchell visitor noted, "Nice bathrooms and park. Very friendly park host, she came and introduced herself and welcomed us quickly."
Swimming access: Designated swimming areas provide safe water recreation. "Three walkways down to the water's edge with one being a large swimming area. Boating is permitted as well," reports a Lake Thompson visitor, noting the comprehensive water access.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer peaceful settings despite proximity to towns. "It's a Bono's the freeway, so there's none of that noise, just some from the main road," explains a camper at Hills RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. Lake Mitchell Campground operates from April 15 to October 31, while others like Lake Thompson remain open year-round for winter yurt camping near Huron.
Weather impacts: Summer heat can be intense without shade. "Be sure to use bug spray as mosquitoes were all over- maybe due to wet weather," warns a Lake Thompson visitor from July.
Site selection: Campgrounds vary in layout and privacy levels. "This campground has both electric standard sites for campers and tent sites. Two shower houses and multiple vault toilets throughout the campground for accessibility," explains a Lake Thompson reviewer.
Reservation requirements: Some popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Ingalls Homestead, there are "only 4 sites" according to a visitor who recommends specific parking strategies: "pull in the parking lot and back up the driveway to the camp sites. Unless you have a small vehicle and camper, it is tricky to get turned around if it is full."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Family-friendly historical activities near camping areas provide learning experiences. At Ingalls Homestead, "a very cool and unique campsite on the grounds of the Laura Ingalls Homestead near De Smet, SD" offers pioneer-themed activities that cost "$20pp to tour the property for the whole time you are staying."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor to Crystal Park mentioned the "restroom with showers. These are shared with the well maintained playground."
Swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide safer water recreation for families. At Twin Lakes Campground, "beautiful, 6 spots 2 big enough for more than class b RV 4 spots are on the water," with water access for swimming.
Nature watching: Early mornings offer wildlife viewing opportunities. A Twin Lakes camper described "the most spectacular morning of watching the flocks of birds diving at the water to get food with the morning colors in the background I've ever seen. So don't miss that early morning coffee to see that show."
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Know where services are available. At Lake Thompson, "there are 4 dump stations near the campground entrance with multiple fresh water hookups around the campground."
Site sizing: Confirm measurements before booking. One Lake Louise visitor noted, "Our 42ft fifth wheel, dually truck and Ram 1500 fit in one camp site. There was plenty of shade at each site and room between camp sites."
Power options: Electric hookups vary by location. Crystal Park offers "50-30-20 amp service at each site. Free will donation for the first 3 nights, $30.00 a night after. 6 pull through sites and 3 back in sites."
Level sites: Hills RV Park provides "really nice pull through sites with water, electric and sewer. $30 per nite. Some shady sites. Very little road noise."
