Memorial Park and Stokes-Thomas Lake Campground provide year-round recreational options for outdoor enthusiasts near Watertown, South Dakota. Located in the Glacial Lakes region, these campgrounds sit at approximately 1,732 feet above sea level along Lake Kampeska, the state's fourth-largest natural lake. Winter camping options remain available at several locations when temperatures can drop below zero, with summers reaching highs in the 80s.
What to do
Fishing access points: Memorial Park offers fishing docks within walking distance of campsites. "Close to beach, fishing dock and close to playground for kids!" notes Rebekah M.
Hiking trail exploration: The network of trails around Campground 1 at Oakwood Lakes State Park provides scenic routes for walking and wildlife viewing. "Beautiful network of trails along the lakes... Great place for horseback riding and canoeing, plus boating and fishing," writes Lynn G.
Water recreation: Multiple beaches and access points allow for swimming, boating and paddling. "The lake is mere feet out the rear of the trailer. Watertown is close with plenty to do if one needs to wander," reports Bob K. about Sandy Shore Recreation Area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Stokes-Thomas Lake Campground maintains well-kept grounds and restrooms. "Wonderful campground! Very well kept with the grass cut and shower/bath houses cleaned and maintained often," says Joe H.
Affordable rates: Camping remains economical with electric/water sites typically around $22-30 per night. "Sites are spacious and very reasonably priced ($22 for electric/water and $30 for full hookup)," mentions Lee D. about Stokes-Thomas Lake Campground.
Quieter weekday stays: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Watertown experience lower traffic Monday through Thursday. "If one was to go here to find some quiet do so during the week or late weekend," advises Sethen E. about Pelican Lake Recreation Area.
What you should know
Rocky shorelines: Lake access points often feature pebble or rocky beaches rather than sand. "Nice pebble beach, playgrounds, and walking areas. Flat camper parking," reports Sethen E. about Pelican Lake Recreation Area.
Variable campground maintenance: Site cleanliness can vary, especially during busy periods. "The next morning, we discovered the site had dead birds with flies buzzing around them, dog poop that hadn't been cleaned up, and cigarette butts on the ground," notes Glenda W. about one Memorial Park experience.
Wind exposure: Lake Kampeska and surrounding areas experience regular wind patterns that can affect camping comfort. "Well groomed area. Pretty views of lake. A little windy," mentions Sethen E.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "We had a great time at the lake our campsite was in view of the water... very green," shares Alley-oop M. about Memorial Park.
Private bathroom options: Oakwood Lakes State Park provides individual restroom facilities. "The bathrooms are amazing for a campground. One of the few places I've ever camped where you get a full bathroom to yourself," explains Taylor T.
Kid-friendly activities: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Watertown offer rental games and recreational equipment. "We visited during the week so we pretty much had the campsite to ourselves!! They have a playground which my 4 year old son loved! He can't wait to go again!" shares Ashley K.
Tips from RVers
Limited pull-through access: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points for larger rigs. "Once the owner was found and moved the truck, we had to make a sharp turn between two trees on either side of the drive," cautions Glenda W. about navigating Memorial Park.
Full hookup availability: County Line Campground accommodates larger RVs with complete utility connections. "Located in a cute little town, with a multitude of spots that can accommodate even the largest RV. Full hookups available, even when it's below freezing," notes Chelsea R.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite natural settings. "It is however by the road so you'll hear vehicles driving by all day/all night," warns Hazel about Stokes-Thomas Lake Campground.
