Best Campgrounds near Watertown, SD

Are you in need of a campground near Watertown, SD? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Watertown campgrounds just for you. Discover great camping spots near Watertown, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Watertown, South Dakota (42)

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Recent Reviews near Watertown, SD

70 Reviews of 42 Watertown Campgrounds



Guide to Watertown

Camping near Watertown, South Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by the lake or a family-friendly campground, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore the Laura Ingalls Wilder Homestead: At Ingalls Homestead, you can tour the historic buildings and enjoy activities like hayrides. One visitor said, "Check out the dugout, house, barn, schoolhouse, church, and garage."
  • Enjoy the Beach: Hartford Beach State Park Campground has a lovely beach area. A camper mentioned, "The beach was nice! It was a decent walk there, but at least had a trail to the beach."
  • Fishing and Boating: At Big Stone Lake State Park Campground, you can fish right from the shore. One reviewer noted, "Fishing is free from the park boundaries with lots of shoreline."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathrooms. A visitor at Sexauer City Park said, "Showers and toilets clean and well lit."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Hartford Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "Only 4 sites were occupied out of 30 or so. Completely quiet all evening."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Lake Herman State Park Campground offer playgrounds and trails. A family shared, "Great campground with a lot to do. Nice beach and walking trails."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Campground 2 — Oakwood Lakes State Park, do not have water hookups. A camper noted, "Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Nice path around the lake for walking the dog."
  • Seasonal Closures: Be aware that some facilities may close during the off-season. A visitor at Sexauer City Park mentioned, "Apparently when temps reach towards freezing they close all restrooms and showers."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One camper at Campground 1 — Oakwood Lakes State Park advised, "Reserve in advance!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Ingalls Homestead that offer educational tours and fun activities. A family said, "Little House on the Prairie fans, you MUST stay here!"
  • Bring Outdoor Games: Many campgrounds have open spaces perfect for games. A visitor at Lake Herman State Park Campground mentioned, "The area has many geocaches as well!"
  • Pack Snacks for the Beach: If you're heading to Hartford Beach State Park Campground, make sure to bring snacks for a beach day. One camper said, "Spectacular sunsets and sunrises."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Big Stone Lake State Park Campground noted, "Only electric on the inner loop."
  • Bring Long Cords: Some sites have electric hookups far from the picnic area. A visitor at Hartford Beach State Park Campground mentioned, "The electric hookup is pretty far from the picnic table/fire ring area."
  • Be Prepared for Slopes: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. A camper at Ingalls Homestead warned, "The grey water dump is on a slight hill."

Camping around Watertown, SD, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular campground near Watertown, SD?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Watertown, SD is Memorial Park with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

  • What parks are near Watertown, SD?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 0 parks near Watertown, SD that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.