The prairie landscape surrounding Lake Preston, South Dakota features rolling grasslands punctuated by natural lakes formed from glacial depressions. Located approximately 1,700 feet above sea level, this region experiences typical Northern Plains temperature swings ranging from highs near 90°F in summer to below-zero temperatures in winter. Campers visiting Lake Preston can choose from several small-town campgrounds with varying levels of amenities, from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Oakwood Lakes State Park offers excellent horseback riding opportunities about 30 minutes from Lake Preston. A camper noted, "Great place for horseback riding and canoeing, plush boating and fishing. In addition to natural beauty there are games to rent, playground, etc."
Laura Ingalls Wilder historic activities: Ingalls Homestead provides hands-on 1880s activities less than 10 miles from Lake Preston. "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—all things the Ingalls family had to do on a farm from long ago," explains one visitor.
Island exploration: Scout Island at Oakwood Lakes State Park features unique hiking trails around the perimeter. "Super cool hiking trail around Scout Island! Great history at Ol Mortimers Cabin and the old military fort," shares a camper who enjoyed the historical elements.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: The shower facilities at Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 2 receive consistent praise for cleanliness and privacy. One camper mentioned, "The bathrooms are amazing for a campground. One of the few places I've ever camped where you get a full bathroom to yourself."
Swimming beaches: Lake Thompson Recreation Area features multiple water access points with developed swimming areas. According to a visitor, "Three walkways down to the water's edge with one being a large swimming area. Boating is permitted as well."
Small-town convenience: Lake Preston City Park & Campground offers easy access to local amenities despite its small size. A camper shared, "This park is a nice little stop in a super small town. We came through just to visit the Ingall's homestead and enjoyed this peace and quiet so much we decided to stay for four days."
What you should know
New campground option: Outback Campground opened in July 2024 and provides full hookup sites near two fishing lakes. A camper notes, "It is close to two lakes. Lake Whitewood and Lake Thompson. Very good fishing at both lakes. You are within 10 minute drive from fishing, swimming and boating on 2 fun lakes."
Limited shade at some sites: The campsites at Lake Thompson Recreation Area vary in terms of sun exposure. One camper observed, "Some sites face the lake, others have shade with enough open sky for your StarLink dish."
Insects can be prevalent: Lake Thompson campers should come prepared with insect repellent, particularly after wet weather. A visitor warned, "Be sure to use bug spray as mosquitoes were all over- maybe due to wet weather."
Tips for camping with families
Historical immersion activities: Kids particularly enjoy the interactive pioneer experiences at Ingalls Homestead. One family reported, "My oldest son also learned how to drive the covered wagon to the schoolhouse down the road (another highlight). Each station on the self-guided tour has an activity with incredibly nice and informed hosts."
Unique sleeping arrangements: Lake Poinsett State Recreation Area offers family-friendly cabin options in addition to traditional campsites. Families with children appreciate the campground layout: "We stayed at campground 1 number 36 it was the perfect pull through spot to set up for the weekend! The bathrooms were very clean which made the stay 10 times better."
Midweek visits for more space: Families often find weekday camping provides a quieter experience with more available facilities. A camper at Oakwood Lakes State Park noted, "We visited during the week so we pretty much had the campsite to ourselves!! They have a playground which my 4 year old son loved! He can't wait to go again!"
Tips from RVers
Dump station positioning: RVers at Ingalls Homestead should be aware of the dump station layout. A reviewer cautioned, "There is a dump station but be fore warned it's on a slope, so emptying your tanks completely will be a challenge."
Entry strategy for tight spaces: Norland Park in Arlington provides basic RV sites within 20 minutes of Lake Preston. A camper advised, "A very utilitarian campground in Arlington, SD. Best feature aside from the shade is there is a laundrymat in the same lot!"
Campsite maneuvering tip: When staying at Ingalls Homestead with larger RVs, consider your approach. One RVer recommended, "Our suggestion if you stay here is, 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."
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