South Dakota State Fair
Located in Huron, the South Dakota State Fair is an exciting event for anyone who wants to enjoy carnival games, delicious food, live entertainment, and thrilling rides. There are plenty of events for families, couples, friends, and even solo visitors who want a fun-filled day making lasting memories. Since there are multiple campgrounds a short distance from the fairgrounds, it's also a perfect event for RVers who want to make it part of a South Dakota RV road trip.
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
The large carnival area has games to play and rides to enjoy, and there's also a kids’ section with gentler rides like carousels. Stop by the agricultural exhibits to learn more about the machinery and what it's like to work the land. Rodeo and equestrian displays are one of the South Dakota State Fair’s most popular attractions. You can see skilled riders take part in roping competitions and barrel races. Make sure to also check out dog trials and draft horse exhibitions.
ON-SITE AMENITIES
Sample a variety of beers and wines, as well as memorable meals, snacks, and desserts. Trolley rides and courtesy car rides are available. You can also rent a scooter, wheelchair, stroller, or wagon. If you need medical assistance, there's a first aid station near the grandstand. ATMs and bathrooms are easy to find, and the venue offers Wi-Fi.
LOCATION
The address of the South Dakota State Fairgrounds is 1060 3rd St SW, Huron, SD 57350-1720.
FAQs About RVing to the South Dakota State Fair
Can you camp overnight at the South Dakota State Fair?
Yes, overnight camping is allowed at the South Dakota State Fair. Multiple options are available to meet your needs and preferences.
Are there hookups available for overnight camping?
Lot J doesn't have any hookups, but you can bring a generator. The campgrounds at Gate 13 and Gate H both have water and sewer hookups, but advance reservations are required.
Do you need to make reservations for overnight camping?
If you want to stay for the duration of the fair, reservations are required. However, if you're staying less than six nights, reservations are first come/first served.
Are the camping lots walkable to the fairgrounds?
All three camping lots are within a few blocks of the fairgrounds. View the maps to determine if you feel comfortable walking the distance.
Are dogs allowed at the fair?
You can't bring your dog into the fairgrounds, but they're allowed at the campgrounds as long as they're vaccinated and leashed. Service animals are allowed at both.
Can I smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol at the fair?
You cannot smoke tobacco while you're on the fairgrounds. Visitors can drink alcohol in designated areas.
LINEUP
The 2026 lineup has yet to be fully posted, but they've already announced excellent live entertainment, including The Fray on September 4, Nate Smith on September 5, and Jake Owen on September 6. These shows are not included in the admission to the fair and must be purchased separately. Keep an eye out for the full schedule on the event'sGrandstand page.
RVING AT THE EVENT
RV camping is allowed at and close to the South Dakota State Fair. There are options whether you want to visit for the short term or stay for the duration of the event. If you're staying six nights, you can reserve a spot at Gate 13 or Gate H, both of which are about a block away and have water and sewer hookups. Visitors staying for less time can park in Lot J, which doesn't take reservations and is first-come, first-served. There are only a few dozen spots available, so it's best to arrive as early as possible. While there are no hookups, generators are allowed.
Where to Camp Near the South Dakota State Fair
If you prefer a quieter campground with more amenities, there are several in the area. One that families might enjoy is the Ingalls Homestead in De Smet, approximately 40 minutes away. It offers multiple options for camping on the prairie, including 4 RV sites and 4 covered wagons. The back-in RV sites, which cost $50 a night, have water and electric hookups and a grey water dump station. About an hour away is Mitchell KOA Journey, located off I-90 near Mitchell. It has various sites with different amenities, including ones with full hookups. A dog park and mini golf are just a couple of its many other amenities. Betts Campground just outside of Mitchell is also about an hour away. The campground has 57 full hook-up sites and amenities such as a store and a pool.
RV Rental Tips for the South Dakota State Fair
The grounds have more than 1,200 campsites. However, the South Dakota State Fair is a very popular event with thousands of attendees. Accordingly, it is best to plan well ahead and make any reservations if necessary so you're not left scrambling at the last minute.
WHERE TO STAY
Several hotels are available in and near Huron, but they are usually booked well in advance. If you book early, you could find comfortable and affordable accommodations at places like the Crossroads Hotel, the Quality Inn Huron, and the Dakota Inn.
HOW TO GET THERE
Take U.S. Route 14 to reach Huron, exit at Lincoln Avenue, and take a left turn onto 3rd Street SW to reach the fairgrounds. If you are coming from South Dakota Highway 37, stay on the highway and bear left when you reach Huron. The highway will be signposted as 21st Street SW and Lincoln Avenue SW when you enter Huron, and it will take you straight to the fairgrounds.
PARKING
If you're staying in an RV on one of the lots, courtesy carts are available upon request. Those driving can park and take a free shuttle. If you stay in a local hotel, it could be a good idea to take a rideshare to the venue.
TICKETS & PRICING
Ticket prices vary. Promotions are available, including free gate admission during specific times and on certain days. Please review the "Hours/Pricing" page for more information. • Daily Adult: $10 • Daily Youth (6-15): $5 • Weekly Adult: $50 • Weekly Youth: $25 • Daily Family Pass (2 adults, 4 youth): $35 - Available only during the fair at admission gates.
WRAP UP
The South Dakota State Fair is a great place to enjoy delicious food and family fun, and a trip to Huron to visit the event could be the perfect opportunity to get a taste of the RVing lifestyle. A spacious rental RV could be your home away from home. There are many types of RV rentals available in Huron, including travel trailers, Class A, B, and C motor homes, and toy haulers. When the fair is over, why not explore the rest of the state? The Mount Rushmore National Monument is just an afternoon’s drive from Huron. To learn more about the South Dakota State Fair and receive updates, follow the event on Facebook or Instagram.
6-Day RV Itinerary for the South Dakota State Fair
Day 1: Get your RV set up and head over to the fair. The Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash competition kicks off at 8 p.m.
Day 2: Take a food tour of the fair, including must-haves like corn dogs and funnel cake. Pick up some extras for a late-night snack.
Day 3: See The Fray perform at 8 p.m. Make sure to get all your tickets in advance.
Day 4: Spend the day going on as many carnival rides as possible, but finish early. You don't want to miss Nate Smith and McCoy Moore at 8 p.m.
Day 5: Grab some delicious food to give yourself plenty of energy for tonight's concert. Jake Owen goes on at 8 p.m., so you can belt out favorites like "Barefoot Blue Jean Night." The show starts off with Walker Montgomery.
Day 6: Spend your last day at the fair watching the Thunder at the Fair Truck and Tractor Pull. Before leaving Huron, stop at one of the local restaurants for an enjoyable meal.
Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page .
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