Mitchell campgrounds offer diverse camping experiences with tent sites, RV hookups, and basic cabins for travelers. The region experiences typical midwestern weather patterns with summer temperatures ranging from 70-90°F and spring/fall temperatures between 45-70°F. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with several facilities located within 10 miles of Interstate 90 for convenient access.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Mitchell Campground provides shoreline fishing opportunities with multiple access points around the 650-acre lake. Campers can catch walleye, northern pike, and bass without leaving the campgrounds. "We stayed one night on our way to Custer. We have a roof top tent so we stayed in a tent camping spot, there was plenty of room and a beautiful view of the sunset," notes a visitor at Famil-E-Fun Campground.
Corn Palace visit: Located just minutes from most Mitchell campgrounds, the Corn Palace features constantly changing corn murals and exhibits. "This is a great little stop over campground for anyone making a trip across the state... Full hookup sites, swimming pool and a small arcade for the kids," shares a camper at Dakota Campground.
Mini golf options: Several campgrounds offer on-site mini golf courses for family entertainment. "Great location. Has golf and playground for the kids... No assigned tent spots, but lots available and on nice grass, with tables and a firepit. This KOA has everything," according to a camper at Mitchell KOA.
What campers like
Shade coverage: The mature trees at many Mitchell area campgrounds provide welcome relief during hot summer days. "Small campground with mature trees and excellent shade. Friendly and helpful staff. Occasional truck noise from the interstate," notes a visitor at Dakota Campground.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds feature swimming facilities, though seasonal conditions may affect availability. "Very small but awesome campground, quiet and nice laundry and small store. Owners were very nice and helpful," reports a camper at Hills RV Park, which offers a pool.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Mitchell maintain well-kept shower buildings and restrooms. "The host here is the sweetest, busiest woman I've ever seen! The campgrounds are nice and shady. Restrooms and showers are clean! Price is very reasonable. $29 for tent site with electric," mentions a visitor at Lake Mitchell Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal algae concerns: Lake Mitchell sometimes experiences algae blooms during summer months that may affect swimming. "We tent camped for one night! Had nice showers and bathrooms. Also had coin laundry on site. Playground for kids and swimming area in lake. There was hazardous algae in the water when we went, so couldn't swim," notes a Lake Mitchell Campground visitor.
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds are located near Interstate 90, which provides convenient access but may create noise. "It's your typical KOA experience. Nice staff and decent facilities. Not really close to much but only a short drive into Mitchell. There's a small pool and a nice dog park. Many of the sites have large shade trees," shares a visitor at Mitchell KOA.
Free camping options: Twin Lakes Campground offers free camping about 30 miles north of Mitchell. "Great spot on a little lake. Breeze blowing in in the morning makes it hard to get up. No electricity, Public toilets available, 2-3 bars of Verizon, No stay limit posted, but game Warden says 14 days," explains a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. "I was only going to stay one night, ended up staying a second. Very easy to get a sight, close to food and general shopping. Right on the edge of town bit so there's a little traffic noise, but still feels woodsy," notes a camper at Lake Mitchell Campground.
Budget-friendly tent sites: Several campgrounds offer affordable tent-only areas with better lake views. "Perfect little spot! Clean, hot showers, no cut off for checking in and nice grassy area for hanging out. Definitely recommend if you're traveling through!" shares a visitor at Dakota Campground.
Pool availability: Check if campground pools are operational during your visit as some may be closed seasonally. "An excellent choice for staying if traveling across South Dakota. The sites are gravel, but are all pull through. The swimming pool was an absolute total plus for a hot July day. The park owner Nancy is a fantastic host," reports a camper at Hills RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through sites: Most Mitchell area campgrounds offer pull-through sites for easy access. "This is a full-service campground directly alongside I90. Even though it's adjacent to the interstate, we really didn't hear any highway noise. The park has full hookups with both 30 and 50 amp sites. The water pressure is great and the water/sewer connections are well-placed," notes a visitor at R & R Campground.
Utility hookups: Most RV sites include water and electric, with many offering full hookups. "Stayed here in our way to southwestern SD. It's your typical KOA experience. Nice staff and decent facilities. Not really close to much but only a short drive into Mitchell. Many of the sites have large shade trees. Overall a pleasant experience," explains a Mitchell KOA camper.
Dump station access: Campgrounds without full hookups typically provide dump stations. "This campground was a great deal for $20 per night with Passport America. Most of the sites are W/E only with a dump on exit. There are FHU available for $5 more per night. The sites are level pull through gravel," shares a visitor at Hills RV Park.
