Camping areas around Lake Andes sit in the rolling plains of southeast South Dakota, at approximately 1,490 feet elevation. The region experiences dramatic temperature swings from winter lows often reaching -10°F to summer highs frequently exceeding 90°F. Lake Andes campgrounds typically remain partially open year-round, though water systems shut down from October through April.
What to do
Paddle boarding opportunities: At North Point Recreation Area, visitors can launch from sites backing up to the Missouri River. "Sunset paddle boarding on the river was a real treat. Kinda cool to say you SUP'd from South Dakota to Nebraska with a beer on the board," notes one camper.
Hiking trails: North Shore Path at North Point offers a 1.2-mile loop suitable for all skill levels. "Trails: North Shore Path is a 1.2 mile loop and is good for all levels mainly used for hiking," explains a visitor who found the trail accessible yet scenic.
Beach swimming: South Shore Lakeside Use Area provides a gravel swimming beach with mature trees for shade. "Nice spots, beautiful lake and beach, not crowded at all," reports a camper who found the area quieter than other recreation sites.
Bird watching: Winter months bring bald eagles to the shorelines. "Enjoy watching the bald Eagles during the winter months," notes a visitor to South Shore. Multiple campers report spotting eagles from waterfront campsites.
What campers like
Quiet campsites: Despite full campgrounds during summer, the atmosphere remains peaceful. "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," shares a visitor to North Point Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Pease Creek Recreation Area receives high marks for maintenance. "Campground was empty, showers hot, rest rooms clean and stocked will come here again," mentions a spring visitor who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Waterfront sites: Many campers prefer waterfront sites for scenic views. "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," describes one North Point camper who appreciated the landscape.
Wide spacing between sites: The layout at most Lake Andes campgrounds allows for privacy. "Large, well spaced out campsites," notes a visitor at North Point who found the arrangement conducive to relaxation.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Beyond eagles and typical wildlife, larger predators occasionally appear. "Saw mountain lion tracks along shore..." cautions a camper at Pease Creek who discovered evidence during shoreline walks with dogs.
Variable pricing systems: Armour Lions Park has inconsistent price signage. "It's a little confusing in price/ paying. There is a box that says $10 donation. A sign that says $15 donation," reports a recent visitor who found the payment system unclear.
Limited shopping access: The rural location requires preparation. "The area is rural and shopping can be difficult. I suggest buying local when possible but stock up before you arrive," advises a camper familiar with the limited resources around Lake Andes.
Seasonal facility closures: Winter campers should prepare for limited services. "We were here from December 08 through 12, 2024. Bathrooms and showers, along with water faucets, are all shut down for the season," explains a winter visitor to Pease Creek who still enjoyed their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: Hidden Gem Campground offers accommodation alternatives. "There are 71 sites to choose from... There are no showers or bathroom facilities at the campground. Payment can be made at the bar just north of the campground sites," notes a visitor who found the newer campground well-maintained.
Playground access: Several campgrounds provide play areas. "Camp site was near beach, fishing dock and playground for the kids!" shares a family who enjoyed the conveniences at North Point Recreation Area.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be intense during summer months. "Bring your insect spray and enjoy," advises a South Shore Lakeside visitor who found bugs the only downside to an otherwise pleasant experience.
Dog-friendly guidelines: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Lake Andes require leashes, typically limited to 10 feet. "Dogs must be on a ten foot leash," confirms a Pease Creek visitor, noting this standard rule applies throughout most pet-friendly sites.
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Corsica City Campground provides convenient overnight options. "For $20 a night it's well worth the money. Site was level, we had 50amp, and there is a concrete pad with a picnic table. There is a place to dump," reports a visitor who found it adequate while visiting family.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "Much Semi traffic, so it's been kind of noisy (right next to highway)," cautions a Corsica City Campground visitor, suggesting selecting sites further from main roads.
Electric reliability: Power access varies by campground. "50 - 30 - 20 amp service with no errors at the electric box," notes a December visitor to Pease Creek who found the electrical service reliable even during off-season stays.
