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Map showing campground location near Yankton, South Dakota
Camper submitted image from Pierson Ranch Recreation AreaView 1 Photo
Map showing campground location near Yankton, South Dakota

Pierson Ranch Recreation Area

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Managed by SD State Parks & Recreation and open year-round, Pierson Ranch Recreation Area sits near Lewis and Clark Lake outside Yankton, with drive-in and boat-in access. All sites have electric hookups and are fairly close together, so expect neighbors. Shade can be sparse mid-day depending on site placement, and water access requires driving rather than walking. No pets are allowed. Free showers, a dump station, and a camp store round out the amenities, making it a functional base for campers who want full hookups near the lake without crossing into a busier state park.

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Map & DirectionsPierson Ranch Recreation Area is located in South Dakota near Yankton

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

42.87486836 N
97.48373287 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • 30 Amp Hookups

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Pierson Ranch Recreation Area

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4.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 17, 2022

Hot and humid

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. Crews were pruning a lot of dead branches in the park as well. Access to water was not convenient unless you drove.
Most campers showed up in the evening. Campground was about 75% full by nightfall. Just up the road in Lewis and Clark SP. I drove through and it was pretty full. All sites are electric. Fairly close together. Free showers were great to rinse off sweat from heat and humidity. Oh yes - Fireflies!!

Site33
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Pierson Ranch Recreation Area by Leslie B., July 17, 2022
Reviewed Jul. 15, 2019

Great area

Really fun campground with parks for kids and nice green grass with tons of sports offerd

Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make reservations for Pierson Ranch Recreation Area in Yankton, SD?

Reservations for Pierson Ranch Recreation Area can be made through the official South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks website or by calling their reservation line. The campground tends to fill up in the evenings, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. When making reservations, you may want to inquire about specific sites if shade is important to you, as some sites offer better shade coverage than others. For the most current reservation information and availability, contact the recreation area directly.

What amenities are available at Pierson Ranch Campground?

Pierson Ranch Campground features grassy campsites with some offering shade (though shade coverage varies by site). Water access is available, though some campers may find it not conveniently located within walking distance of all sites. The campground maintains nice green grass throughout the area and provides recreational facilities. There are also parks for children to enjoy. Maintenance crews regularly work on the grounds, including pruning of trees and branches to maintain the area.

Are there any photo galleries of Pierson Ranch Recreation Area to view before visiting?

Yes, you can find photo galleries of Pierson Ranch Recreation Area through several sources. The South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks official website typically maintains photo galleries of their managed recreation areas, including Pierson Ranch. The Dyrt camping app also features user-submitted photos that showcase the campground's amenities, sites, and surroundings. Additionally, the Yankton tourism website may offer visual previews of the recreation area. These galleries can help you visualize the grassy campsites, shade trees, children's parks, and recreational facilities before planning your visit.

What recreational activities can I enjoy at Pierson Ranch Recreation Area?

Pierson Ranch Recreation Area offers numerous recreational opportunities. The campground provides various sports activities and facilities for campers to enjoy. Children will appreciate the dedicated park areas designed for play. The grassy areas throughout the campground are perfect for outdoor games and relaxation. Located near the Missouri River, visitors can likely enjoy water-related activities such as fishing, boating, or swimming depending on seasonal conditions and regulations. The natural setting also makes it ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.

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