Situated along the Missouri River in southeastern South Dakota, Platte sits at approximately 1,535 feet elevation in a region characterized by rolling prairie and river valleys. The area experiences cold winters with temperatures often below freezing and warm summers reaching into the 80s and 90s°F. Camping options near Platte include multiple recreation areas offering both riverside sites and sheltered locations for tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Snake Creek Recreation Area offers excellent fishing access with a dedicated kids fishing pond. "Great fishing and fun swimming," notes Rebecca S. about the Snake Creek Recreation Area, while another camper mentions that "shoreline is great for fishing" at Platte Creek.
Water recreation: Missouri River access provides swimming and boating options. "Swimming in the Missouri was amazing! Very pretty area," reports Rachel C. about her experience at Snake Creek. The recreation areas feature boat ramps with convenient access to the water, supporting activities from casual swimming to serious boating.
Walking and hiking: Several campgrounds offer shoreline paths and nature trails for exploring. At Pease Creek Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy "a wooded campground, about .25 mile walk/drive to the river. Nice shoreline to stroll along with dogs," according to Kirstin G.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at recreation areas. At Buryanek Recreation Area, guests note "Big sites. A lot of room between sites" and "Sites are nicely spaced." The campground provides shelters at each site, along with picnic tables and fire rings.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. One reviewer at Snake Creek Recreation Area notes "Bathrooms and showers kept very clean," while another mentions "clean bathrooms, playground area, hiking trails, kids fishing pond and beach area."
River views: Sites overlooking the Missouri River are particularly popular. A camper at North Point Recreation Area described their experience: "If you pick a site on the water (as we did) you can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Missouri River and the rolling hills of the southern shore."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water systems at many campgrounds shut down during colder months. As noted for North Point Recreation Area, "Open year round but Oct 1– April 30 water sourced amenities may be shut off."
Insects and wildlife: Ticks and flies can be problematic in warmer months. One camper at Snake Creek mentioned "Flies were annoying, but not terrible… might get worse?" Wildlife awareness is important, with a visitor to Pease Creek noting they "Saw mountain lion tracks along shore."
Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly between campgrounds. A camper at Platte Creek State Recreation Area mentioned "The only downfall is that our phones don't get service there (Verizon & AT&T)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Snake Creek, campers appreciate the "playground area" that provides recreation options for younger visitors between water activities.
Kid-friendly swimming: Areas with gradual entry points work best for children. North Point Recreation Area receives positive reviews for its family accommodations: "Camp site was near beach, fishing dock and playground for the kids!"
Safety considerations: Rivers require supervision, especially during high water periods. A reviewer noted that North Point "has been dealing this year with high water and water damage to campsites and trails" which parents should be aware of when camping with children.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. One camper at Snake Creek noted "Gravel mound on lots of sites so it was a bit tricky to back in and level but we managed."
Electric hookups: Most campgrounds offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability. At Circle K Campground, which offers "Full hookups at sites," visitors appreciate the convenience of having water, electric and sewer connections, though some mention highway noise.
Dump station access: Several recreation areas provide dump stations for RV waste disposal. A visitor to Snake Creek mentioned "The dump station is easy to use and clean," which is an important consideration for RVers planning longer stays in the area.
