Lake Mitchell offers camping options from traditional tent sites to upscale glamping accommodations, providing access to water recreation and fishing from April 15 through October 31. The lake spans 693 acres with approximately 12 miles of shoreline in the southeastern part of South Dakota. Weather conditions include summer temperatures averaging 80°F with cool 55°F nights and occasional thunderstorms from May through September.
What to do
Water activities: Lake Mitchell Campground provides water-based recreation with tent sites directly overlooking the water. "This was the perfect campsite after driving 13 hours. I reserved in advance and got the spot right on the lake. Gorgeous view," shares Tracy K. who enjoyed the lakefront setting.
Hiking: Explore the trails around the area, though some visitors note varying maintenance levels. At Lake Mitchell Campground, one camper mentioned, "Had some hiking trails that weren't super maintained, and the lake in Augusta was green with algae."
Bird watching: Morning hours at Twin Lakes Campground offer exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. "Saw some watersports, lots of people fishing from boats, and the most spectacular morning of watching the flocks of birds diving at the water to get food with the morning colors in the background I've ever seen," reports Nate R.
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Many campers appreciate sites with direct lake views. At Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, visitors enjoy "spacious campsites right by the lake if desired," with one camper noting, "Our site was spacious enough for our 40' 5th wheel and F450. Site 43 offered a beautiful lake view."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Mitchell area consistently receive praise for cleanliness. Stephen G. at Lake Mitchell Campground noted, "The grounds hosts are awesome and really go out of their way to make sure you have a wonderful stay."
Quiet atmosphere: For those seeking peaceful glamping close to Mitchell, South Dakota, Twin Lakes Campground provides a tranquil setting. Brandon S. commented, "If you're just looking for a free, quiet place to crash for the night, this site is definitely worth the drive off the freeway."
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Lake Mitchell sometimes experiences algae blooms affecting swimming. One camper reported, "There was hazardous algae in the water when we went, so couldn't swim," indicating that water conditions should be checked before planning water activities.
Site variation: Campsite quality and spacing varies considerably between locations and within the same campground. At Armour Lions Park, a visitor noted, "I know 5 were concrete slabs, the rest gravel. It's a little confusing in price/paying. There is a box that says $10 donation. A sign that says $15 donation."
Weather preparedness: Summer storms can develop quickly, requiring proper preparation. Overnight temperatures can drop considerably even during summer months, necessitating appropriate sleeping gear for tent campers and glampers in less insulated accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, visitors mention "plenty of things to do for kids with nice playground areas and hiking trails."
Swimming options: Dakota Sunsets RV Park offers family-friendly amenities including "a nice little playground for the kids." Multiple reviewers noted the clean facilities make it comfortable for family stays.
Bug preparation: Insect repellent is essential, especially during summer months. Tracy K. at Lake Mitchell Campground specifically advised, "Make sure to bring your bug spray!" while another camper at Twin Lakes noted that flies can be particularly problematic near pastureland.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Many sites accommodate larger rigs without disconnecting for overnight stays. Karen B. at Dakota Sunsets RV Park shared, "The sites were level enough that we didn't even have to unhook our trailer for our quick overnight stay."
Utilities: Power connections vary between campgrounds. At Hills RV Park, visitors report "Really nice pull through sites with water, electric and sewer. $30 per nite. Some shady sites." Most campgrounds offer electric-only connections, requiring fill-up and dump station use.
Internet connectivity: For those needing to stay connected while glamping near Mitchell, South Dakota, consider connection quality. MickandKarla W. at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area reported impressive speeds: "Verizon had 3 bars, T-Mobile had 2, and our T-Mobile house internet clocked 207 Mbps down/3.49 Mbps up."
