Best Tent Camping near Selby, SD
Tent campsites near Selby, South Dakota provide basic accommodations in rural settings along the Missouri River reservoir system. Lake Pocasse Campground offers seasonal tent camping from May to September, while Gettysburg City Park provides more accessible tent sites approximately 17 miles south of Selby. Langeliers Bay in neighboring North Dakota, roughly 20 miles northwest of Selby, offers drive-in tent camping with minimal amenities but allows both pets and campfires.
Most primitive tent campgrounds in the Selby area lack modern facilities. Lake Pocasse does not permit alcohol, pets, or fires, and offers no drinking water, toilets, or trash services. Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water and waste disposal bags. Langeliers Bay allows campfires but provides no water hookups or toilet facilities. The camping season generally runs from late spring through early fall, with Lake Pocasse specifically operating May through September. Campers should check conditions before arrival as services are limited throughout the region.
Tent camping in this area provides access to fishing and outdoor recreation around Lake Oahe and other Missouri River impoundments. Cattail Bay Recreation Area, though requiring boat access, offers tent campers more amenities including picnic tables, toilets, and water hookups. Most tent sites in the region provide basic, no-frills experiences focused on fishing and water recreation. The landscape features open prairie with limited natural shade. One visitor noted, "Stayed 1 night on a fishing trip. We had fun caught a couple fish. It's not for everyone - small and only off grid tent camping." Another camper commented on Cattail Bay's "small town community shows through with their hospitality. Lots of fishing spots!"
