Camping spots near Yankton, South Dakota provide direct access to Lewis and Clark Lake, formed by Gavins Point Dam on the Missouri River. The reservoir stretches approximately 35 miles with 90 miles of shoreline and reaches depths up to 45 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, allowing for ice fishing and cross-country skiing when conditions permit at many campgrounds that remain open year-round.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Cottonwood Campground features an on-site disc golf course where visitors can play a round surrounded by mature trees. "This campground sits about 100 yards from the Gavins Point Dam and right next to Lake Yankton. Campers are close to gas stations, mini golf, rental facilities, and restaurants. The campground contains a disc golf course, playground and restrooms," notes Max H.
Bike trails: Lewis and Clark Recreation Area offers extensive bike trails that connect multiple beaches. "This beautiful campground has a bike trail that connects all the beaches. It has hiking trails, parks, and a georgous lake for swimming or boating," writes Courtney G. The interconnected trail system allows cyclists to explore the entire recreation area without using roads.
Wildlife viewing: Winter visits to Cottonwood Campground provide opportunities for bald eagle watching when they congregate below the dam. "Located both upstream and downstream of Lewis and Clark Lake, visit the Missouri National Recreational River," suggests reviewer N I. The area around Gavins Point Dam serves as an important bald eagle wintering area from December through March.
What campers like
Lake access: Many campers appreciate the waterfront sites at Gavins Point Horse Camp. "Could see water from everywhere on site was nice and clean and very grassy," comments Isaac E. about the campground's location. Campsites positioned directly on the shoreline allow for fishing directly from your site.
Large campsites: Chief White Crane Recreation Area provides spacious sites with good separation between neighbors. "The spots were pretty large and very clean. We have two small children and the open space was great for them," reports Jennifer S. The campground features 146 camping sites and 10 cabins spread throughout a mature cottonwood grove.
Clean facilities: Nebraska Tailwaters receives consistent praise for its well-maintained restrooms. "The bathroom/showers are spotless," notes Dennis G. Another camper, Shannon C., adds: "The campsites are nice and clean, and the bathrooms are the cleanest bathrooms I have ever seen at a campground!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer weekends fill quickly at the most popular campgrounds. "If it is during peak season, you want to reserve a site 90 days in advance," advises Courtney G. about Lewis and Clark Recreation Area.
Seasonal facilities: Some campground amenities close during colder months. "This last trip was April and they just got the bathrooms/showers turned on," mentions Judy B. about her spring visit to Chief White Crane Recreation Area.
Light pollution: Security lighting affects stargazing at Nebraska Tailwaters. "My only complaint is the 'yard lights' that are on all night. They are incredibly bright. It would have been nice to have it dark and see the sky," writes Judy B.
Site selection: At East Midway campground, shade coverage varies significantly between sites. "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," warns Leslie B. about nearby Pierson Ranch, which shares similar vegetation patterns.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pierson Ranch Recreation Area offers multiple play areas for children. "Really fun campground with parks for kids and nice green grass with tons of sports offered," notes Isaac E. The recreation area maintains several playground structures throughout the campground.
Swimming beaches: Multiple small beaches provide safe swimming areas around Lewis and Clark Lake. "Lots of campsites with lake views, swimming beaches and bike trails as well as water equipment rental in the area," shares Kristen P. Swimming areas feature gradually sloping sandy bottoms ideal for younger children.
Cabin options: For families wanting a camping experience without tents, multiple recreation areas offer cabin rentals. "The small cabins near the water was perfect for our small group! The bathrooms were close to our cabin and were very clean," explains Molly K. about East Midway campground's lakeside cabins.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service only: Most sites in the area provide electricity but not full hookups. "Sites are electric only and sites get booked fast," mentions Courtney G. about Lewis and Clark Recreation Area.
Fill stations: Weigand Campground lacks water connections at individual sites. "Only electricity is available at the pads, dump station had no water to clean out as of 10/2022," reports Chris A. RVers should fill fresh water tanks before parking at their sites.
Site length limitations: Some sites accommodate smaller rigs better than others. "Site 32 was a little shorter than the 50' length I expected, had to park the pull vehicle in the grass to stay off the road," notes Chris A. about Weigand Campground. RVers with longer setups should verify site lengths before booking.
