Watertown, South Dakota camping areas sit around the 1,700-foot elevation mark in the glacial lakes region of northeastern South Dakota. The area features multiple lakes within a 30-mile radius, with Lake Kampeska being the closest to town. Camping season typically runs from May through September, with most facilities closing before October due to overnight temperatures dropping below freezing.
What to Do
Fishing access: Memorial Park provides shoreline fishing opportunities along Lake Kampeska, with one camper noting that they stayed at a "site with [a] fishing dock close to playground for kids!"
Water recreation: Hartford Beach State Park Campground offers swimming areas and boat access. "This was a nice find! Sites pretty close together, especially those in the middle. Some, however, were right on the lake or had paths that lead to a picnic table & fire ring closer to the water."
Historical experiences: At Ingalls Homestead, visitors can experience 1880s prairie life through hands-on activities. "This is a truly magical place, and if you've ever read any of the Little House on the Prairie books and are anywhere near De Smet South Dakota, do yourself a favor and swing by."
What Campers Like
Peaceful lake views: Stokes-Thomas Lake Campground offers waterfront campsites. "We were searching for a place to land for the night and after a couple of failed attempts at other places, decided to come here. Sites (many with lake views) are spacious and very reasonably priced ($22 for electric/water and $30 for full hookup)."
Wildlife viewing: Hartford Beach State Park provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Across from our site was a little trail down to the lake. In the evening we saw tons of fish and an otter."
Clean facilities: Oakwood Lakes State Park maintains well-kept campground amenities. "Camped in the more open area (72E in campground 2). Large grassy sites with fire pit and picnic table. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Nice path around lake for walking the dog."
What You Should Know
Site selection considerations: At Codington County Memorial Park and Campground, site placement varies. "We only overnighted here but there is a large lake and a pond. Lots of fowl. Showers were great."
Seasonal closures: Most Watertown rv campgrounds operate from May 1 through September 30, with limited services outside these dates.
Limited connectivity: While cellular coverage is generally available at most rv campgrounds near Watertown, South Dakota, signal strength varies by location and carrier.
Tips for Camping with Families
Educational opportunities: Ingalls Homestead offers unique learning experiences for children. "The other really cool thing about this spot—especially for families—are all the fun activities at the homestead itself. There's a one-room school house with tours, a barn with animals, a covered wagon ride where you (or your kids) can lead the horse-drawn wagon."
Swimming areas: Designated beaches provide safe water access at several parks, with some featuring roped-off swimming zones for children.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment. Oakwood Lakes State Park has "lots of families having a good time" with accessible playground areas.
