Glamping near Yankton, SD

Lewis and Clark Recreation Area and surrounding campgrounds provide various camping options within minutes of Yankton, South Dakota, where temperatures range from summer highs around 85°F to winter lows below 10°F. Located along the Missouri River, these sites offer water recreation with shoreline elevations ranging from 1,160 to 1,210 feet above sea level. Camping facilities include basic tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurt camping near Yankton.

What to do

Disc golf course access: Cottonwood Campground features an on-site disc golf course perfect for casual players. "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 camper Max H.

Bike trail exploration: Lewis and Clark Recreation Area Bloomfield offers extensive paved paths connecting camping areas. "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," shares Courtney G. Another visitor mentions, "Nice bike trails around the big Campground."

Lake Yankton fishing: The smaller Lake Yankton provides different fishing opportunities than the main Lewis and Clark Lake. "This is actually on Lake Yankton not Lewis and Clark Lake but it is a nice peaceful place with nice grass, benches and parks, the lake has good fishing for all species would recommend going has nice bathrooms as well as good bike trails," reports Isaac E.

What campers like

Spacious sites with shade: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites at Chief White Crane Recreation Area. "Great campground with lots of shade trees and plenty of space between spots! Great fishing and swimming too!" says Kristen P. Another camper mentions, "The sites are large and paved. No tent platforms, but two sites toward the back of the campground are designated for tents."

Family-friendly amenities: Multiple playgrounds and open spaces make the area ideal for families with children. "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," states Elizabeth R.

Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping in Yankton, South Dakota, Cottonwood Campground offers yurt accommodations among its camping options. The campground's location near Gavins Point Dam provides easy access to both Lake Yankton and the Missouri River recreation areas.

What you should know

Campground selection timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "The sites are electric only and sites get booked fast. 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 Courtney G.

Weather considerations: The area experiences all four seasons with distinct camping conditions each season. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions. Winter camping is available but requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing.

Park entrance fees: Non-residents should budget for additional fees when camping at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area. "South Dakota charges a day use fee ($6) plus a fee for tent camping ($17); I opted to pay for an Annual Pass of $30 since I plan on doing more SD camping this year," shares May M. Another visitor confirms, "We had already paid the $30 a night plus $10 nonresident reservation fees, to find out starting this year we needed to pay a non-resident $15 a night state park fee or $60 for a year pass."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Choose sites near recreational amenities for convenience with children. "The spots were pretty large and very clean. We have two small children and the open space was great for them. The bathrooms were always clean and the park was great for the kiddos!" explains Jennifer S. at Chief White Crane Recreation Area.

Beach selection: Multiple swimming beaches offer different experiences 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," notes Kristen P.

Green space activities: Open areas between campsites provide play space without leaving your campsite. "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," shares Elizabeth R.

Tips from RVers

RV site selection: Book waterfront sites early for premium views and location. "Large sites with bike trails right on lake," reports Bill Z. about Lewis and Clark Recreation Area East Midway.

Hookup information: Most campsites offer electric hookups only. "Individual sites have electricity but not water hookups. Hydrants are scattered throughout the campground," notes Judy B. Water fill stations and dump facilities are available but not at individual sites.

RV size considerations: Cottonwood Campground accommodates larger rigs on paved sites. "Great campground with caring staff. Run by the Corps of Engineers. Well-maintained and great prices. No water or sewer at the campsite, but they are close-by," explains Shaeli E.