Hugh Glass Campground occupies a bluff position overlooking Shadehill Reservoir in South Dakota's grasslands, offering primitive camping with vault toilets and water access. Located about 30 miles southwest of Lemmon, the area features a prairie landscape with rolling hills and grassland vegetation typical of the northern Great Plains region. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with cooler nights, making both spring and fall pleasant camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Shadehill Reservoir at Hugh Glass Campground provides good fishing according to visitors. Brian K. notes, "Remote with ~14 campsites. You take a dirt road all the way in. There isn't a designated swim area but there is a nice sandy bottom close to the boat launch."
Water recreation: While not directly lakeside, Shadehill Recreation Area offers various water activities. West River J. mentions, "Playground and a couple beaches around the area. A popular boating reservoir."
Wildlife viewing: The surrounding grasslands and reservoir attract various wildlife. Frank M. advises, "You do have to be careful driving in though, lots of cows sharing the roads."
What campers like
Peaceful surroundings: Isabel Lake offers a quieter alternative for dog-friendly camping near Lemmon. West River J. describes it as "a nice, small, lightly sheltered campground just north of Isabel, South Dakota. Campground on north side of lake has a dock, boat ramp and small beach area for wading in."
Privacy options: At Hugh Glass Campground, campers appreciate the secluded nature. Frank M. shares, "I headed on to the empty campground. I had my choice of sites and chose one that was wind shielded by some evergreens. Very peaceful!"
Uncrowded experience: Even during typically busy periods, many campsites remain available. Debra P. notes, "Memorial Day weekend and there is only one other camper."
What you should know
Facilities and amenities: Mirror Lake City Park offers additional options for travelers with pets. Lydia S. states, "Very beautiful campsites next to Mirror Lake. It is a small city campground. They have water and electricity. Sewer dump is in town. Cost is only $20 a night with a limit of 10 nights."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires driving on unpaved roads. Debra P. mentions, "Easy 4 mile drive of highway on well maintained dirt/gravel road."
Reservation information: Many campgrounds in the area operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Leslie B. notes, "I would have selected #11 if I had stayed. It looks almost abandoned since you have to know it is here. Hard to impossible to find info on USDA web."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Some dog-friendly campgrounds near Lemmon offer swimming areas appropriate for children and pets. Brian K. points out, "There isn't a designated swim area but there is a nice sandy bottom close to the boat launch."
Playground facilities: Heart Butte Reservoir offers family-friendly amenities. Sarah H. shares, "There are many nice, private and shaded campsites. The beach is beautiful. Fishing is good. The kids love the playgrounds."
Activity options: Multiple recreational activities keep families engaged. West River J. says about Isabel Lake, "You can speed around tubing or troll over to one of the shores for some fishing."
Tips from RVers
Site elevations: When choosing sites at Shadehill Recreation Area, Leslie B. cautions, "What appear to be lakeside sites are actually elevated above the water."
Electric hookups: For those seeking powered sites, West River J. notes, "Well maintained electric hookup sites along the shore."
Dump station access: Plan your waste management accordingly. Leslie B. mentions, "Clean vault toilets and also shower house with running water. Lots of big rigs; I felt tiny in my truck tent."
