Pickerel Lake Recreation Area RV & Campground Guide
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Pickerel Lake Recreation Area surrounds one of the deepest lakes in South Dakota. Pickerel Lake is a spring-fed body of clear water that encompasses 955 acres and is 43 feet deep. This glacier-formed Lake once had the American Indian name of Lake Tamahe. This meant "where you can spear long fish," and it still holds true today. Fishing enthusiasts come for the large fish found in the lake, and the park hosts the Pickerel Lake Lodge Annual Fishing Tournament each year.
Spring 32 - 68 F
Summer 56 - 83 F
Fall 37 - 73 F
Winter 2 - 26 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Pickerel Lake Recreation Area
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area has two pet-friendly campgrounds offering campsites with fire rings, tables, and lantern posts. The East Campground has 29 sites with electricity. The pads range from 55 to 85 feet in length. Amenities include a playground, potable water, and vault toilets. Alternatively, the West Campground has 38 sites with electricity ranging from 40 to 100 feet in length. Ten of these are along the shoreline, and one campsite is ADA-accessible. Amenities include a playground, restrooms, vault toilets, and an RV dump station.
What to Do at
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area is known for its fishing, but you'll also find opportunities for boating and other watersports like rafting and wakeboarding. There are picnic areas available with tables and BBQ pits, and they have plenty of space for playing frisbee. After enjoying a meal, spend some time exploring the park's hiking trails.
Fishing
You can fish from the bank, dock, or your boat at Pickerel Lake Recreation Area. You can rent gear, including poles and rods, at the park office, and lures and bait are available as well. The lake is known for its perch, bass, catfish, pike, and pickerel, and the state regularly stocks it.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a modern-day treasure hunt that requires your favorite GPS device. Pickerel Lake Recreation Area participates in this fun game. The caches you find can be quite small or as large as a bucket. Once you locate one, you're welcome to take one of the trinkets found inside, but be sure to replace what you take with a family-friendly item for the next geocacher.
Nature Watching
Nearby Waubay National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect spot for nature watching. Here, you'll discover leapfrogs, deer, pelicans, and eagles. Bird watchers will appreciate the many species of waterfowl and migratory birds.
Stargazing
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area is one of South Dakota's best locations for stargazing. The dark skies at the lakefront provide an unobstructed view of the stars.
Hiking
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area has two hiking trails for you to enjoy. Glacial Mounds Trail is found across from the East Campground. It's 0.75 miles long and meanders through native prairies and rocky areas. The Ponderosa Trail is found across from the West Campground's comfort station. It's one mile long and takes you through the Ponderosa Pine trees.
Boating
Everything from paddle boats to motorized craft are welcome on Pickerel Lake. Kayaks and canoes can be rented at the park office near the main entrance. There are two boat ramps available in the recreation area.
Swimming
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area has two sandy swimming beaches. The largest one is on the East side of the lake at the East Campground. The other is at the West Campground. Be aware that there are no lifeguards on these beaches. Visitors swim at their own risk.
How to Get to
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area
From Grenville, head east on Slowacki Ave. toward Main Street. In 100 feet, turn right on Main Street. After 350 feet, turn left on Kosciusko Ave. In 5.3 miles, take a left on 446th Ave. In 1.8 miles, take a right on 130th Street. You'll then turn left into Pickerel Lake Recreation Area.
Entering Pickerel Lake Recreation Area
Parking lots are found at the entrance as well as in the campgrounds. The park is open year-round. However, from October 1 to April 30, the flush toilets, showers, and water systems may be closed.
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area Entry Fee per vehicle (daily) : $8.0
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area Entry Fee per vehicle (annual) : $36.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Pickerel Lake Recreation Area
The summer months are the best time of year to visit Pickerel Lake Recreation Area. You'll have warm weather for boating, fishing, and swimming, and the restrooms and showers will be open.
Area wildlife includes deer, frogs, and eagles. The lake is filled with species like perch, bass, catfish, pike, and pickerel. Birdwatchers can look forward to seeing waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds.
There are 67 designated RV campsites with electricity in Pickerel Lake Recreation Area. They are located within two separate pet-friendly campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds, potable water, and vault toilets.
While you don't have to make reservations for Pickerel Lake Recreation Area campsites, it's highly recommended. Reservations can be made online or by telephone. Campsites start at $26 per night.
Pets are welcome at Pickerel Lake Recreation Area. They must be kept on a six-foot or shorter leash at all times, and you are expected to pick up after them.