Best Tent Camping near Vermillion, SD

Tent camping near Vermillion, South Dakota centers around the Lewis and Clark Lake area, where several tent-friendly campgrounds offer access to Missouri River views and recreational opportunities. Bow Creek Recreation Area provides walk-in tent sites with free camping and permitted fires, while Bloomfield - Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area offers basic tent-only sites with more developed amenities. These campgrounds sit along the Nebraska-South Dakota border, providing tent campers with riverside locations and views of the dramatic cliffs along the Missouri River.

Tent campsites at Bloomfield - Lewis and Clark SRA cost $15 for basic sites and include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to toilets. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with 8 basic tent-only sites available. Water access is available, and the toilet facilities are well-maintained with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Miller Creek, another tent camping option in the Lewis and Clark SRA, requires careful planning as access roads can become muddy and rough after rain. Vehicle entry permits are required for Nebraska recreation areas ($6 daily fee), and campers should be aware of the zebra mussel alert, requiring all water equipment to be cleaned after use.

Primitive tent camping in this region offers exceptional water views and natural shade. Campers noted that "sunsets are amazing along with the beautiful cliffs on the South Dakota side of the river" at Bloomfield campground, where mature trees provide welcome shade during summer months. Sites near the water allow tent campers to enjoy "the sound of the water as it gently laps against the shore." For backcountry tent camping experiences, Mnisose Wicote (Wandering River) provides year-round tent sites with basic amenities including drinking water and toilets, though visitors should come prepared with insect repellent. According to reviews, mosquitoes can be particularly problematic at some locations. The campgrounds around Lewis and Clark Lake are described as "quiet and secluded" with several offering opportunities for fishing, birding, and kayaking directly from your tent campsite.

Best Tent Sites Near Vermillion, South Dakota (5)

Show More
Showing results 1-5 of 5 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Tent Camping Photos near Vermillion, SD

1 Photos of 5 Vermillion Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Vermillion, SD

262 Reviews of 5 Vermillion Campgrounds


  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2021

    Bloomfield - Lewis and Clark SRA

    Small

    FCFS 

    Rates: $15.00 basic $30.00 electric

     8 Basic tent only 12 RV sites w/electric 

    Picnic table Fire ring Toilets Playground Dump station Boat ramp Fishing dock

     The toilet was very clean with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. I was very impressed with the overall maintenance at the whole site.

     Sunsets are amazing along with the beautiful cliffs on the South Dakota side of the river. There is camping just below the hill so you will be closer to the sound of the water as it gently laps against the shore. Sites are marked and water views are worth the drive to the park. Mature trees provide nice shade which will help during the summer. 

    ALERT: Zebra mussels, an aquatic invasive species were found in Lewis& Clark Lake in 2014. They can damage boat motors and have other negative effects. Make sure you clean your water craft and outdoor recreation gear after each use. Never release unwanted pets or aquarium contents into the wild. CLEAN DRAIN DRY

     LNT 

    Better than when you found it 

    Stay safe Happy travels

  • Bibs O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 13, 2025

    Weigand Campground — Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area

    March Swag Camp, we are the only ones here.

    We are staying at a basic tent camping site. There is available to us a pit toilet. Water is still shut down for the season.

    Luckily, they do offer off-season rates. A Nebraska park permit is required for your vehicle.

    Picnic table and fire ring are also here for us.

    We are the only ones here in the entire park (mid-March 2025). Grounds are clean. Our site (site 5) is very large, and located on a small Bluff above the Missouri river.

    Walking paths, frisbee golf, playgrounds, fishing, and boating are all available.

    I have 4 bars of 5G cell service at my camp site. A WIFI hot spot is available at the camp office as well.

  • Bibs O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Sand Creek Recreation Area

    Busy boat ramp, no other campers.

    This is a busy boat put in and take out. There are 8 camping sites. No electrical, no sewer or dump station 2 water spigot. One water spigot between sites 6 - 7 and a thread on at the vault toilet. Toilets are new. Thus, clean so far. Fire rings at each site. Picnic tables at each site. Sites 2 and 3 have some shade from the sun. Sites 1, 4,5,6,7,8 are located in direct sunlight. The price when we stayed (July 2024) was $11.67. There were no other campers during our stay.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2021

    Cottonwood Campground

    Best of Both States

    Dates: April 15, 2021- October 17, 2021 October 17 2021– April 21, 2022

    Fees:$16.00$18.00 

    • RV dump station is located just north of Cottonwood Campground off of Toe Road.
    • 7 electrical sites
    • 2 modern Bath house/toilets
    • Trash
    • Water sites
    • Cell phone service
    • Drinking water 
    • Flush toilets
    • Grills/fire rings
    • Lake access
    • Paved roads
    • Paved sites
    • Pets allowed
    • Picnic tables
    • Playground
    • Security lights
    • Disc golf
    • Shade

    The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center: Contains exhibits on the Missouri River and area history including the Lewis and Clark Expedition with stunning views of Lewis and Clark Lake along with the Missouri River. Powerhouse Tours are available on weekends. Please contact the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center at (402) 667-2546 for more information.• The Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium• Visit nearby Yankton, South Dakota- the historic capitol of the Dakota Territory.• Located both upstream and downstream of Lewis and Clark Lake, visit the Missouri National Recreational River.

    •• Latitude• 42° 51' 31.0000" N • Longitude• 97° 28' 57.0000" W••

    From U.S. Hwy 81 in Yankton, South Dakota, drive four miles west on South Dakota Highway 52, then south on Dam Toe Road and follow signs

    .• Check-In Time is 4:00 P.M./ Check-Out Time is 2:00 P.M.

    All-Terrain Vehicles(ATVs/UTVs) and golf carts are not permitted.

    Quiet hours are 10:00 P.M. to 6:00 A.M.

    Fireworks are prohibited.

    All pets must be on a leash of 6 feet in length or less. Pet waste must be picked up and properly disposed of promptly.

    Firewood Alert: Don't Move Firewood!• Due to the spread of invasive insects(such as Emerald Ash Borer(EAB)) firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect your forests by purchasing near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Firewood is not available for sale on-site, however several local businesses sell firewood a short distance away, see the campground host or attendant for more information.• Visit DontMoveFirewood.org for more information.

    For questions or to contact park staff, please call: 402-667-2546 or email: gavinspoint.nwo@usace.army.mil. U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS GAVINS POINT PROJECT OFFICE P.O. BOX 710 YANKTON, SD 57078 

    Physical Address U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND 198 TOE RD YANKTON, SD 57078 Phone Number

    For facility specific information, please call (402) 667-2546 

    Trails: There are at least 9 hiking trails on AllTrails that you will find around Lewis and Clark Recreation Area. Lewis and Clark has the best of both worlds since the lake borders South Dakota and Nebraska. That makes it easy to stay in your preferred state and location. In Yankton SD a great trail is the Chalk Bluffs Multi-Use Trail which is a 3.7 mile loop where you will find a lake and it is rated as moderate. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. This trail is used for hiking, horses, mountain biking and birding and is accessible through out the year. There is a 3.8 mile lightly used round trip or one way out and back called Yankton South Shore Trail. Great for wildlife viewing and it is great for walking, hiking and just enjoying nature. 

    Fishing: Lewis & Clark offers many types of fish for all anglers out there, walleye, sauger, large and small mouth bass, crappie, catfish and bluegill. It depends on the season and temperature of the water as to what is biting.

     Boating: Boating goes hand in hand with fishing and as with all things there are rules and regulations. You will find all types of boats, speedboats, pontoon, kayaks and personal watercraft. Make sure and wear your life jacket anytime you are on the water– Stay Safe and Alive. Make sure you are aware of the rules and regulations for boating around a dam area.

    Another issue that has become an increasing problem is Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) which is spreading in the United States. There are different types of AIS and they are being spread by several methods. Boaters, of all types, help spread or help stop the spread by taking care of their watercraft. Before leaving a boat launch practice the CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY technique. Many states require an AIS permit before you place watercraft in the water. 

    Birding: Birding at Lewis & Clark is great for watching bald eagles. You can get a list from Niobrara State Park for birds found around the lake.

     Hunting: In season, of course, begins the Tuesday after Labor Day. White tailed deer, mourning dove, waterfowl and wild turkey, cottontail rabbits and squirrel. Make sure you follow all the regulations in the recreation area. 

    Winter sports: Adds a completely new option for recreation. When ice is thick enough the lake is open for ice fishing, skating and snowmobiles. Cross country skiing is also very popular. 

    Lewis & Clark Lake is formed from the Missouri and Niabrara Rivers. The lake travels for about 35 miles at a maximum pool 90 miles of shoreline. Maximum depth is 45 feet. It was named after the Lewis& Clark Expedition that camped nearby. 

    LNT 

    Better than when you found it

    Stay safe– Happy Travels

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2022

    Pierson Ranch Recreation Area

    Hot and humid

    I evidently chose the one site that has no daytime shade. There was shade early and late, but nothing in the middle of the day. Crews were pruning a lot of dead branches in the park as well. Access to water was not convenient unless you drove.
    Most campers showed up in the evening. Campground was about 75% full by nightfall. Just up the road in Lewis and Clark SP. I drove through and it was pretty full. All sites are electric. Fairly close together. Free showers were great to rinse off sweat from heat and humidity. Oh yes - Fireflies!!

  • Angie A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 11, 2024

    Menno Lake Camping - Huber Campground

    Quiet peaceful spot on the lake

    Excellent find and with electricity for only $10 a night. Pretty secluded with only one other camper. Some local traffic. Vault toilet withTP is far from where we camped and the old school toilets were a little too sketchy for me. If they were cleaned up I would have been brave enough to try. Such a beautiful place! Bugs are bad! Be prepared. Each site has picnic table and fire ring on nice concrete pad.

  • S
    Sep. 19, 2021

    Stone State Park Campground

    Quick weekend trip

    Planned to stay for the weekend to test out new tent but storms came through & we left after one night. Basic campground in shady area under trees. We did not get an electric hookup. Ground was mostly dirt not grass on our site & mostly dry. Large trees provided shade which helped as very hot & humid. We were next to a ravine but with plenty of bug spray did not get many bites. Hiked the Bear & Buffalo trails. Campground very quiet though a few people came & went. Washrooms are very basic & chose not to use shower. The Park Ranger did check on us & advise on weather conditions. Picnic table & fire pit were fine. Got only 1 bar signal on both Verizon & AT&T. No WiFi. Overall basic, woody/shaded. Good for short stay.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2021

    Miller Creek - Lewis and Clark SRA

    Country Roads

    • ARCHERY HUNTING ONLY

    • Must have a Vehicle Entry Permit

     Nebraska Resident         Non Resident 

    Annual  $30.00 Annual   $45.00

    Daily$ 6.00 per day          Daily$ 6.00 per day

    Basic camping per day $15.00

    • Picnic table

    • Fire ring

    • Boat ramp

    • Water

    • Pit toilet

    • Trash

    • Fishing pie

    r• Parking for boat launch

    • Check in 4 pm check out 11 am

    This campground is open and nicely shaded. Very quiet and secluded. Several mature trees surrounds the camp. The campground is very well maintained. If you want to get back to the basics this is your camp. Great for birding, kayaking, fishing or just kicking back.

    This campground is sitting on the second largest lake, Lewis & Clark which runs along the border of Nebraska and South Dakota. The lake is about 16 miles long and up to 3 miles wide. It has a maximum depth of 45 feet.

    If you are planning a visit to Miller Creek you need to have a small rig or tent. If you come by way of Springfield, South Dakota or Neobrara, Nebraska on Highway 12 then Highway 12 from the west of Miller Creek the road becomes dirt. If it has rained the dirt will turn to a nasty mud. The road is also very potted and rough.

    A bonus for visiting Miller Creek is the joy of feasting your eyes on the natural beauty of what makes Nebraska great. The rolling farm land and friendly locals that wave as you pass by. Whether fishing, birding, hiking, boating, or fishing is your passion a country campground in Nebraska can help sooth your soul.

    Firewood Alert: Please purchase firewood in the local area. Do not transport from another state, if you do please burn immediately due to the Emerald Ash Borer. Proper permits/Licenses and park entry passes may be purchased in advance online at http://ngpc-home.ne.gov/

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2021

    Nebraska Tailwaters

    Huck Finn Time

    Open year round

    Reservations:  Mid May - Mid May

    FCFS  Mid Oct - Mid May

    42 sites    31 electric   11 non electric

    Group camping with electric

    ADA Accessible fishing pier 31 electric sites 11 non electric Modern showers Flush toilets Shore fishing Boat ramp Fish cleaning station RV dump station Group camping Picnic shelter Fire ring/grill Vault toilet Cell service Paved sites Pets allowed Trash Security lights Drinking water 

    This campground is a gem snuggled along the Missouri River on the Nebraska side of the river. Lewis and Clark journeyed up the Missouri River on their way to the Pacific Ocean. In 1874 a group of Mennonites settled along the now Lewis& Clark Lake. Ground was broken in 1952 at the damsite. Now the public is able to recreate in numerous campgrounds and recreation sites along the Nebraska and South Dakota shore line


Guide to Vermillion

Tent camping options near Vermillion, South Dakota extend beyond the Lewis and Clark Lake area to include several primitive and basic sites along the Nebraska-South Dakota border. Campers find opportunities for solitude in small, under-developed recreation areas where boat access creates additional camping possibilities. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 85°F in July and August, making water access particularly valuable for recreation.

What to do

Kayaking from your campsite: At Miller Creek - Lewis and Clark SRA, direct lake access provides opportunities for paddling. According to visitor reviews, this location is "great for birding, kayaking, fishing or just kicking back" with a fishing pier available for shore anglers.

Archery hunting: Miller Creek designates specific areas for bowhunters with "archery hunting only" zones. Vehicle entry permits are required for access, with daily fees of $6 for both residents and non-residents.

Bird watching: Multiple campgrounds provide habitat for various bird species. Campers note the "rolling farm land" surrounding Miller Creek creates diverse habitats for birds, making the area "great for birding" throughout the camping season.

What campers like

Clean facilities: Visitors to Bloomfield - Lewis and Clark SRA frequently mention the "very clean toilet with toilet paper and hand sanitizer" and being "very impressed with the overall maintenance at the whole site." Basic amenities like trash collection and water access are consistently maintained.

Waterfront sites: Several campers highlight specific waterfront locations at Bloomfield, noting "they have 4-6 spots along the water" which rank among visitors' favorites. One camper called Bloomfield "one of my favorite campgrounds. Amazing views!"

Quiet environment: Bow Creek Recreation Area offers walk-in tent sites away from RV areas, creating separation from generator noise and traffic. Miller Creek similarly provides a secluded experience where campers describe it as "very quiet and secluded" with "several mature trees" surrounding the camp.

What you should know

Vehicle restrictions: Access to Miller Creek requires careful planning as "if you are planning a visit to Miller Creek you need to have a small rig or tent." Road conditions deteriorate in wet weather, as "if it has rained the dirt will turn to a nasty mud."

Invasive species protocols: Nebraska parks implement strict equipment cleaning protocols due to zebra mussel infestations. Campers must "clean drain dry" all water equipment after use to prevent spreading these invasive species.

Permit requirements: Nebraska State Recreation Areas require vehicle entry permits ($6 daily fee) in addition to camping fees. Basic tent sites typically cost $15 per night while electric sites run $30 at most locations.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Village Park and several other campgrounds in the area offer playground equipment, making them suitable for families with younger children who need additional recreation options.

Bug protection essential: Insect repellent is absolutely necessary when camping at Mnisose Wicote (Wandering River) where one camper reported "there were so many mosquitos here we had a rough stay" despite the facilities being "otherwise nice."

Seasonal considerations: The best tent camping near Vermillion, South Dakota typically occurs from May through September, though some campgrounds remain open year-round. Summer weekends fill quickly, especially at waterfront sites, so midweek camping offers better site selection for families.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Vermillion restrict large RVs due to narrow access roads and limited site dimensions. Miller Creek specifically notes campers "need to have a small rig or tent" due to access limitations.

Electric hookups: Electric sites are available at select campgrounds like Bloomfield where 12 RV sites with electric hookups complement the 8 basic tent-only sites. Electric sites cost $30 compared to $15 for basic sites.

Dump station access: Limited dump stations are available in the region, with some campgrounds like Mnisose Wicote offering sanitary dump facilities despite having primitive tent camping. RVers should plan tank capacity accordingly for longer stays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Vermillion, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Vermillion, SD is Bow Creek Recreation Area with a 0-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Vermillion, SD?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Vermillion, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.