Best Campgrounds near Vermillion, SD
Campgrounds near Vermillion, South Dakota provide a mix of established facilities and basic river access points along the Missouri River valley. Clay County Park, located approximately 4 miles from Vermillion, offers 40 electric campsites, 8 tent sites, and a cabin rental option with trail access to the Missouri River. Lions Park within Vermillion city limits provides convenient overnight camping with electric hookups, while Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area offers more primitive dispersed camping opportunities just across the Nebraska border.
Reservations are required at most developed campgrounds in the region, with many sites bookable up to 90 days in advance through South Dakota's state reservation system. "Clay County Park underwent some staffing and management changes at the beginning of last year. The whole area was thoroughly cleaned, trees trimmed, trails groomed, restrooms spiffed, etc.," noted one camper on The Dyrt. Most campgrounds in the Vermillion area operate seasonally, typically opening in April and closing in September or October, though some year-round options exist. Summer temperatures can be hot and humid, and spring flooding sometimes affects riverfront access points.
The Missouri River corridor shapes the camping experience throughout the region. Campsites at Clay County Park feature tall cottonwood trees providing partial shade, though limited privacy between sites. Several visitors noted the park's well-maintained trail system leading to the river as a highlight. At Lions Park, campers experience a more urban setting with proximity to recreation facilities, though reviews indicate the atmosphere is less peaceful than outlying areas. Mulberry Bend WMA offers more secluded camping with direct river views, though facilities are minimal with just vault toilets and no potable water. As one camper described, "Nice spot to overnight for a day or two. Not a very large spot but enough room for 6 or 7 rigs... Next to Vermillion river. 1 picnic table, pit toilet, boat ramp. Easy to get to."
