Campgrounds near Platte, South Dakota occupy the Missouri River basin at elevations around 1,300-1,600 feet. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and cold winters dropping to 10°F. Summer storms can develop quickly across this region, with thunderstorms forming rapidly over the river valley between May and September.
What to do
Fishing from designated piers: Snake Creek Recreation Area features fishing piers with access to Missouri River species. "I found this campground to be clean, and the sites were spacious, and the view of the Missouri river from my space was terrific," notes a visitor at American Creek Campground.
Swimming in designated areas: North Point Recreation Area provides beach access with swimming spots for cooling off. A camper shares, "Camp site was near beach, fishing dock and playground for the kids!" Some areas like American Creek Campground offer equipment rentals: "At the beach there is kayaks and paddle boards available for rent which is the perfect addition to a great campground."
Hiking on riverside trails: Take advantage of the walking paths along the Missouri River. "There are bike/walking trails but not very long," reports one visitor at North Point Recreation Area. The North Shore Path offers a 1.2-mile loop trail suitable for all skill levels.
What campers like
Level sites with Missouri River views: Many campgrounds offer sites that require minimal leveling. "The site was level, the hook ups were great," notes a camper at White Lake Lodge & RV Campground. At American Creek, "Site 36 is a shaded back-in sight ~80ft long with water and 50/30/20."
Shade trees for summer heat relief: Snake Creek Recreation Area offers sites with mature trees. "Lots of shade trees. We had a campsite right on the river," reports one visitor. Another mentions, "Most sites have some shade as well, which was a pleasant surprise for the area."
Quiet camping despite popularity: The campgrounds maintain a peaceful atmosphere even when busy. "Although the park was full when we visited (July) we had plenty of space on either side of us and it was surprisingly quiet given that the camp was full," mentions a camper at North Point Recreation Area.
What you should know
Weather conditions change rapidly: Storms can develop quickly in the river valley. "The storms in the area just appear. We've gone camping out here twice and both ended very scarey," warns a camper at American Creek Campground. Keep weather alerts enabled on your phone.
Wildlife encounters are common: Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles and migrating waterfowl. A visitor at Pease Creek Recreation Area notes, "We were delighted with the company of 4 Bald Eagles. Hundreds of migrating Canadian Geese." Another mentions, "Saw mountain lion tracks along shore..."
Seasonal facility closures: Many campgrounds reduce services during colder months. "Bathrooms and showers, along with water faucets, are all shut down for the season," reports a winter visitor to Pease Creek. "Open year round but Oct 1– April 30 water sourced amenities may be shut off" at North Point Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several rv sites near Platte, South Dakota offer playground facilities for children. "Camp site was near beach, fishing dock and playground for the kids!" notes a visitor at North Point Recreation Area. Snake Creek Recreation Area also maintains playground equipment for younger campers.
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Famil-E-Fun Campground provides swimming options popular with families. "Our kids had a great time in the outdoor pool," shares one camper. Several campgrounds along the Missouri River maintain beach areas with gradual entry points suitable for children.
Spacious sites for family activities: American Creek Campground offers room for family setups. "Our site was spacious with lots of room to move around and the tree coverage is perfect for privacy," mentions a visitor. This allows families to spread out equipment and play games within their site.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Most campground areas provide dump stations if not full hookups. At Hills RV Park, "Most of the sites are W/E only with a dump on exit. There are FHU available for $5 more per night." Another RVer notes, "The dump station is easy to use and clean" at Snake Creek Recreation Area.
Electrical amperage availability: RV sites near Platte offer varied electrical hookups. "They do have wifi, a bit slow though," reports a camper at Hills RV Park. Another mentions, "50 - 30 - 20 amp service with no errors at the electric box" at Pease Creek Recreation Area.
Pull-through accessibility: Many campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with pull-through sites. "Really nice pull through sites with water, electric and sewer. $30 per nite," shares a visitor at Hills RV Park. Another camper adds, "Our rigs length truck and camper connected is 47'. We were able to pull thru the campsite and park. Without having to unhook."
