Lake Preston sits amid South Dakota's eastern glacial lakes region, about 1,800 feet above sea level. This area features natural prairie lakes formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago, with Lake Thompson expanding significantly after flooding in the 1980s. Campgrounds around Lake Preston provide access to fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing opportunities, with peak camping season running May through September when temperatures average 70-85°F.
What to do
Historical exploration: Visit the Ingalls Homestead in De Smet, where camping options include open prairie tent sites, RV spots with hookups, and unique covered wagon accommodations. "A very cool and unique campsite on the grounds of the Laura Ingalls Homestead near De Smet, SD. Unique in that you can camp right on the open prairie and for only $10 a night. Just pick a spot of grass and you're good to go," writes Brian C. on Ingalls Homestead.
Fishing: Outback Campground provides access to two excellent fishing lakes within a 10-minute drive. According to David G., "This is very new campground. Opened in July of 2024. It is close to two lakes. Lake Whitewood and Lake Thompson. Very good fishing at both lakes."
Hiking and nature trails: Explore the network of trails at Oakwood Lakes State Park. Lynn G. notes that this is a "Great place for horseback riding and canoeing, plush boating and fishing. In addition to natural beauty there are games to rent, playground, etc." The park features a trail around Scout Island with historical attractions.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Lake Preston offer a peaceful setting. At Lake Poinsett State Rec Area, Wilanrie B. shares: "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."
Spacious sites: Campground 2 at Oakwood Lakes State Park offers generous camping areas. Lynn A.C. describes it as "One of the best campsites I've been to! Large lots, campfires allowed, lakes, trails, friendly people and sooo incredibly quiet."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. Janet K. reports that Campground 2 at Oakwood has "Large grassy sites with fire pit and picnic table. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Nice path around lake for walking the dog."
What you should know
Seasonal insects: During wet weather, mosquitoes can be prevalent at campgrounds throughout the region. Bug spray is essential, especially in summer months.
Limited shade: Some campsites lack tree cover. Lynn G. notes about Oakwood Lakes: "campsites are very open and unshaded. Only a few are by the water."
First-come availability: Lake Preston City Park & Campground operates on a self-service, first-come basis. Kristen L. explains: "It's self service, so first come first served. We were the only ones here for a day or so and then a few others came, but it never filled up. You just put your cash in a lock box."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several dog-friendly camping areas near Lake Preston include recreational facilities for children. Ashley K. says about Oakwood Lakes: "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!"
Interactive learning: Norland Park in Arlington offers family-friendly features including a small lake with a bridge and island. "We visited Arlington, SD on our way west and easily located this cute little campground on the main drag. The sites back right up to a cute little park with a lake/pond complete with bridge and small island," notes Shelly S.
Water access: Families appreciate the swimming areas at Lake Thompson Recreation Area. Audrey F. describes: "Three walkways down to the water's edge with one being a large swimming area. Boating is permitted as well."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When camping at Ingalls Homestead with an RV, consider your approach. Michelle B. advises: "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."
Dump station considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging dump stations. At Ingalls Homestead, Craig F. notes: "Only 'issue' is the Grey water dump is on a slight hill, with the ground washed away, and people sometimes park around it."
Electric hookups: For RVers needing power, Lake Thompson Recreation Area provides standard electric sites throughout the campground, with multiple fresh water hookups available. Steven W. shares, "Beautiful location on the north shore of Lake Thompson. Some sites face the lake, others have shade with enough open sky for your StarLink dish."
