The cabin accommodations at Lewis and Clark Recreation Area and Chief White Crane Recreation Area offer year-round lodging options along the Missouri River. The recreation area spreads across multiple campgrounds in South Dakota and Nebraska, with facilities on both sides of Gavins Point Dam. Cabins are located within established campgrounds, providing access to the same amenities regular campers enjoy while offering more weather protection.
What to do
Biking trails access: Lewis And Clark Recreation Area offers an extensive trail system connecting multiple campgrounds. "Beautiful campground has a bike trail that connects all the beaches. It has hiking trails, parks, and a georgous lake for swimming or boating," notes one visitor to Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area Bloomfield.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing access points exist throughout the cabin areas. "Located below Gavins Point Dam with easy access to Missouri River and Lake Yankton. The bathrooms are always clean and camping spaces are far apart," reports a camper at Chief White Crane Recreation Area.
Swimming beaches: The recreation area includes several designated swimming areas near cabin locations. "Great camping with lots of shade trees and plenty of space between spots! Great fishing and swimming too!" remarks a guest at Chief White Crane Recreation Area.
What campers like
Large shaded sites: The cabin areas feature mature cottonwood trees providing natural shade. According to one camper at Gavins Campground, "Big campground along river. Sites spaced nicely apart. Some riverfront sites with view. Trees, grass, bike path. Lots to do here."
Clean facilities: Multiple reviews mention well-maintained shower buildings and restrooms. "The cabins are located in a beautiful grove of cottonwood trees in a well-maintained park with nice trails to walk or bike," shares a visitor to Lewis and Clark Recreation Area.
Central open spaces: Many cabins surround communal green areas ideal for group activities. "Our family liked this place so much that we actually changed our itinerary to stay an extra night. The kids and pets especially enjoyed it! There is a huge green space in the middle of the campground," notes a visitor to Chief White Crane Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Cabins book quickly, especially during summer months. "If it is during peak season, you want to reserve a site 90 days in advance. We have been to this campground many times and it is one of our faves," advises a visitor to Lewis And Clark Recreation Area East Midway.
Pay showers: Some campground shower facilities require quarters. "Showers were much nicer than we expected for a state park," notes one camper, while another at Weigand Campground advises: "Bring quarters if you will want to take a shower!"
Limited amenities: Cabins typically provide basic shelter only. "Each campsite has a gravel pad, picnic table and fire pit. We had electric only but water is available," explains a visitor to Weigand Campground. Campers should prepare to bring bedding, cooking equipment, and personal supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple playgrounds throughout the recreation area provide entertainment for children. A family at Pierson Ranch Recreation Area shares: "Really fun campground with parks for kids and nice green grass with tons of sports offered."
Beach activities: Several designated swimming areas provide safe water access. "Our family liked this place so much that we actually changed our itinerary to stay an extra night. The kids and pets especially enjoyed it! There is a huge green space in the middle of the campground, and all around the campground are several fantastic playgrounds as well as a small beach and a dock," explains a visitor to Chief White Crane Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting attracts various wildlife species. "Wildlife in the area includes geese, ducks, turkeys, eagles, and beavers that I have seen," notes a camper staying at Chief White Crane Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV pads vary in size between campgrounds. "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," cautions an RVer at Weigand Campground.
Hookup limitations: Most cabin areas offer electric-only hookups at nearby RV sites. "Only electricity is available at the pads, dump station had no water to clean out as of 10/2022," notes a camper at Weigand Campground.
Off-season considerations: Some facilities close during winter months. "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," reports a March visitor, though year-round cabins near Yankton provide heated accommodation options regardless of season.
