Primitive camping sites near Lake Andes, South Dakota dot the shoreline of Lake Francis Case and surrounding waterways. Most tent camping locations are situated at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 1,450 feet above sea level, with terrain characterized by gentle slopes leading to the water's edge. Seasonal temperature fluctuations can be extreme, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hunting opportunities: South Scalp Creek Recreation Area provides suitable tent camping for hunters. Scott B. noted, "Needed a camping spot for some hunting I was doing in the area. This worked great. Had good spots for pitching a tent and had fire rings for a camp fire. Vault toilets were located in the camping area as well."
Swimming access: Burke Lake Recreation Area offers tent campsites near Lake Andes with water recreation as the main attraction. Rebecca S. mentioned, "a great place to swim and get together," making it ideal for visitors seeking water activities during warmer months.
Boating and fishing: Miller Creek in the Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area provides boat-in tent camping access with dedicated facilities. According to one camper, "This campground is sitting on the second largest lake, Lewis & Clark which runs along the border of Nebraska and South Dakota. The lake is about 16 miles long and up to 3 miles wide. It has a maximum depth of 45 feet."
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Many tent campers appreciate the lack of crowds at South Shore Lakeside Use Area. One camper shared, "This is an underrated campground. It's got one pit toilet, clean, no hookups so no RVs, except me, a great view from any site, and, most of all not crowded."
Shade coverage: Tent sites at South Shore Lakeside Use Area offer protection from summer heat. Katie L. observed, "All sites seemed to have some shade, picnic table, and fire pit," which provides comfort during hot summer days.
Reasonable pricing: Camping fees remain affordable for tent campers in the area. At South Shore Lakeside Use Area, day use fees run $8 per vehicle with an annual pass option of $36, while campsites cost $11.67 per night, keeping costs manageable for extended stays.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic throughout the region, particularly near water. At Mnisose Wicote (Wandering River), Jesse S. warned, "There were so many mosquitos here we had a rough stay the facility was otherwise nice."
Road conditions: Access to some tent campsites requires traveling unpaved roads that become difficult after rain. About Miller Creek, one reviewer cautioned, "If you come by way of Springfield, South Dakota or Neobrara, Nebraska on Highway 12 then Highway 12 from the west of Miller Creek the road becomes dirt. If it has rained the dirt will turn to a nasty mud. The road is also very potted and rough."
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas offer only basic amenities. South Shore Lakeside Use Area provides vault toilets, fire rings and picnic tables, but campers must bring their own drinking water and other supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access locations: South Shore Lakeside Use Area includes a swimming beach suitable for families with children. Magdalena noted, "Nice spots, beautiful lake and beach, not crowded at all. Only negative point is it's close to the street. But since there is not a lot of traffic it was pretty quiet."
Short-term stays: Some tent campsites work well for brief family camping trips. Josh H. recommended South Shore, saying "Really nice stop on our road trip and will stay again for sure," indicating its suitability for overnight or weekend family camping.
Cultural experiences: Families seeking educational opportunities can explore unique accommodations at Lakota Youth Development Tipi Stays, which offers an alternative to traditional tent camping with cultural immersion opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most primitive campsites near Lake Andes cannot accommodate larger RVs. At Miller Creek, a reviewer advised, "If you are planning a visit to Miller Creek you need to have a small rig or tent," making this location suitable only for compact campers or van conversions.
Supply planning: Shopping options are limited near tent campsites in the area. Campers should purchase all necessary supplies before arrival as one reviewer noted about the South Shore area, "The area is rural and shopping can be difficult. I suggest buying local when possible but stock up before you arrive."
