Oahe Downstream Recreation Area offers glamping in the Upper Missouri River region at an elevation of approximately 1,400 feet. Luxury outdoor accommodations near Pierre, South Dakota provide views of Lake Oahe, which extends 231 miles northward as part of the massive Missouri River reservoir system. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with cooler nights, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Disc golf course: Oahe Downstream Recreation Area features an 18-hole disc golf course that provides recreational opportunities for all skill levels. "They have an 18 hole Disc Golf coarse. Bring your bikes because you can ride to the trailrace area or around the campgrounds," notes a visitor to Oahe Downstream Recreation Area.
Butterfly tagging: The recreation area hosts seasonal butterfly tagging events at their garden, offering educational experiences. According to a camper at Left Tailrace - Lake Sharpe, "We had a wonderful experience! Sites were spacious, tables had shade. Bathhouse was spotless and showers were wonderful with plenty of hot water and good water pressure."
Water activities: The Missouri River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. "Camping, pull through, picnic tables, fire pits at each site. Sites are very spacious. The Campgrounds also offer fishing, fish cleaning station, boat ramp, biking, frisbee golf, a playground, horseshoes and bean bag toss. Something for everyone," reports a visitor to Left Tailrace.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many glamping locations near Pierre provide ample space between accommodations. "Beautiful, clean park. Decent sized lots. Bathrooms clean. Staff was super. I highly recommend this place," says a camper at New Frontier RV Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. A visitor to Left Tailrace - Lake Sharpe mentioned, "Beautiful views, clean bathrooms and hot showers! I wish we could have spent another night here. Very clean and well organized campground. It is on a peninsula so great views from some spots."
Shade structures: Many sites feature wind blocks and shade elements to enhance comfort. "They have very nice windblocker screens beside picnic table which is necessary as the wind can blow and adds a bit of privacy," notes a camper at Left Tailrace.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The camping season typically runs from May through September or October, with some facilities closing earlier. "Season May 1–Sep 30 Off season Sep 3–May 1. Fees $18.00 standard electric, $14.00 tent non electric," explains a visitor to Left Tailrace.
Wind exposure: The Pierre area can experience strong winds, particularly in open areas near the water. Prepare accordingly with secure tent stakes and windbreaks. A camper at Big Pines noted, "Nice place with very friendly and helpful staff. The camp was very full when we were there but oddly very quiet. The breeze blowing through the pine trees was very peaceful and relaxing."
Cottonwood season: Be aware of cottonwood seed pod dropping periods which can affect comfort. According to a camper at Oahe Downstream Recreation Area, "We couldn't control nature but the cottonwoods were dropping their seed pods and they were sticking to everything, including in between my dogs pads of their feet and it was hard and painful to remove them."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. "The Campgrounds also offer fishing, hunting, water sports, family camping, heritage," notes a visitor to Left Tailrace.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of nature programs and wildlife viewing opportunities. A visitor to American Inn & RV Park shared: "We went here last minute on way to Badlands SD. Easy to find with full hookup. Not pricy. Good for a short stay. Quiet and safe (on premises of hotel)."
Biking options: Bring bicycles to explore the extensive trail systems. "Bring your bikes because you can ride to the trailrace area or around the campgrounds. There are other biking & hiking areas within the area and Pierre SD," explains a visitor to Oahe Downstream Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different levels of hookups depending on the campground. "We enjoyed our stay at Big Pines June 2020. They were very attentive and helpful. I also liked the delivery service they offer, so as we packed our lunch for the day, they brought us ice," mentions a visitor to Big Pines.
Pull-through availability: Many sites offer convenient pull-through access for larger rigs. "Sites are pull thru if you are the first, otherwise back in with each RV tail to tail there are some sites that are just back in," explains a Left Tailrace camper.
Site selection strategy: Consider location within campgrounds for best views or access to amenities. A visitor to Little Bend RV park explains, "Had a peaceful and relaxing time staying at Little Bend RV park. The views of the Missouri River are absolutely stunning. You can also access the river via a 10 minute drive down to the docks and there is a restaurant very close by."
