Campground 1

For South Dakotans, the call of the outdoors is an irresistible invitation, and our state parks offer some of the most cherished opportunities to connect with nature. Among these, Oakwood Lakes State Park, nestled near Bruce, stands out as a true gem, and within it, Campground 1 has earned a reputation as an "extremely nice" and "great" place to camp. This isn't just a patch of land; it's a meticulously maintained gateway to outdoor adventure, designed to cater to a variety of camping styles while providing a welcoming and clean environment.

Oakwood Lakes State Park is unique for its setting among eight connecting glacial lakes, providing a picturesque backdrop and a wealth of water-based activities. Campground 1, as a central part of this park, embodies the best of South Dakota's state park experience. Whether you're a seasoned RVer looking for full hookups, a family seeking a comfortable tent site with a playground nearby, or a nature enthusiast keen on hiking and birding, Campground 1 offers something special. Its consistent positive feedback highlights its commitment to cleanliness, excellent facilities, and overall enjoyable atmosphere. Let's explore what makes Campground 1 at Oakwood Lakes State Park a premier choice for locals seeking their next outdoor escape.

Campground 1 is one of the primary camping areas located within the beautiful Oakwood Lakes State Park, near Bruce, South Dakota. This campground is part of the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks system, known for its well-maintained facilities and diverse recreational opportunities. It caters to a wide range of campers, including those with RVs, tent campers, and even offers camping cabins for a more glamping-style experience.

The campground is consistently praised by visitors for its high quality. Reviews often highlight its "extremely nice" and "great campsites," suggesting a positive overall experience. It's recognized as a family-friendly spot, offering a mix of outdoor fun and comfortable amenities. While some state park campgrounds might feel rustic, Campground 1 is known for its clean facilities, particularly its restrooms and showers, which many visitors rave about for their privacy and cleanliness. The park's setting among eight connecting glacial lakes provides a unique and scenic backdrop, making it ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty alongside their camping comforts.

Campground 1 is strategically located within Oakwood Lakes State Park, with its address tied to Bruce, SD 57220, USA. More specifically, the park's main address is 20247 Oakwood Dr, Bruce, SD 57220. This places it approximately 7 miles north and 3 miles west of Volga, SD, off US Highway 14, and about 11 miles from the larger city of Brookings, making it easily accessible for many South Dakotans.

The park's location offers excellent accessibility from major regional routes. For those traveling on Interstate 29, Exit 140 provides a direct route to the park, ensuring a smooth journey even for larger RVs. Once within the park, Campground 1 is well-signed, guiding visitors efficiently to their designated campsites. The internal roads are typically well-maintained, contributing to ease of navigation.

Being situated amidst eight connecting glacial lakes—Lake Tetonkaha, Lake Oakwood, and others—is a significant geographical advantage. This multi-lake system provides extensive shoreline access for various water activities. Despite its proximity to Brookings, a larger town with amenities, the park is frequently described as "quiet," offering a peaceful escape without being too isolated. This balance of natural seclusion and convenient access to nearby towns for supplies or dining makes Oakwood Lakes State Park, and specifically Campground 1, an ideal and practical choice for both local residents and visitors to the eastern South Dakota region.

Campground 1 at Oakwood Lakes State Park provides a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers a variety of site types to suit different preferences. These include electrical campsites (typically 30/50 amp hookups for RVs), non-electrical campsites for tents or smaller setups, and even several camping cabins for those seeking a more furnished experience.
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: A consistent highlight in reviews, the comfort stations at Oakwood Lakes State Park, including those accessible from Campground 1, are highly praised for their cleanliness and quality. Some even mention private bathroom facilities, which is a rare luxury in campgrounds.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available within the park for RVers to dispose of their wastewater.
• Potable Water Access: Drinking water sources are readily available throughout the campground areas.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Playground Facilities: A dedicated playground area keeps younger campers entertained, making it a very family-friendly environment.
• Interpretive Site: The park includes interpretive sites that provide information about the area's natural and historical significance, including its past use as a summer camp and gathering spot for American Indians.
• Equipment Checkouts and Rentals: The park offers equipment checkouts and rentals for various activities, such as canoes, kayaks, fishing poles, and snowshoes (seasonal), enhancing the recreational opportunities.
• Reservation System: Campsites can be reserved in advance, with reservations typically available within 90 days of arrival through the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks reservation system (www.campsd.com or their call center).
• Park Entrance License Required: A daily or annual park entrance license is required for vehicles entering the state park.

Campground 1 at Oakwood Lakes State Park boasts several features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination in South Dakota.

• Exceptional Cleanliness and Facilities: Repeatedly highlighted in customer reviews, the "amazing" bathrooms and "clean and well kept grounds" set this campground apart. The attention to cleanliness significantly enhances the comfort and overall experience for campers.
• Shaded Campsites: Unlike many open prairie campgrounds, Oakwood Lakes offers "shaded campgrounds" thanks to its mature trees. This provides much-needed relief from the South Dakota sun, making for a more comfortable camping experience, especially during warmer months.
• Eight Connecting Glacial Lakes: The park's unique geological feature of eight connecting glacial lakes provides an unparalleled variety of water-based activities. Campers have direct access to excellent swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing opportunities. This makes it a haven for water enthusiasts.
• Diverse Recreational Activities: Beyond water sports, the park offers a wide range of land-based activities. Extensive trails are perfect for hiking and horseback riding, and there are abundant opportunities for birding, given the diverse waterfowl in the area. A disc golf course is also available.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With playgrounds for children and a general atmosphere that encourages family gatherings, Campground 1 is highly suitable for families. Reviewers often mention it as a "family oriented place," rather than just a "nature/wilderness" type of camping, making it welcoming for all ages.
• Quiet Atmosphere Despite Proximity to Town: Despite being only about 11 miles from Brookings, a larger town, the park maintains a "nice quiet park" ambiance. This balance allows campers to enjoy natural tranquility while still having easy access to urban amenities if needed.
• Historic Significance: The park has a rich history, once serving as a summer camp and an annual gathering spot for American Indians. The log cabin built by Samuel Mortimer in 1869 still stands, offering a glimpse into the past.
• Year-Round Accessibility for Most Areas: While some water systems may close in winter, the park generally remains open year-round, allowing for seasonal activities like ice fishing and cross-country skiing, extending its utility beyond just the warmer months.

To inquire about or make a reservation for Campground 1 at Oakwood Lakes State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: Bruce, SD 57220, USA (The specific park address is 20247 Oakwood Dr, Bruce, SD 57220).

Park Office Phone: (605) 627-5441

Email: OakwoodLakes@state.sd.us

State Park Reservation Call Center: 1-800-710-CAMP (1-800-710-2267)

Website for Reservations: www.campsd.com

It is highly recommended to check the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website or call the park directly for the most current information on site availability, rates, and any specific policies, especially regarding seasonal closures of certain facilities. Given its popularity and positive reviews, booking in advance is advisable, especially for peak seasons.

For residents of South Dakota, Campground 1 at Oakwood Lakes State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for outdoor recreation. Its suitability for locals is rooted in its unique combination of natural beauty, convenient access, and family-friendly amenities that align perfectly with the lifestyle and expectations of those living in the state.

Firstly, its location within Oakwood Lakes State Park, nestled among eight connecting glacial lakes, offers a quintessential South Dakota outdoor experience. Locals who appreciate fishing, boating, swimming, and simply being by the water will find endless opportunities here, all without having to travel great distances. The availability of shaded campsites is a significant advantage, providing much-needed comfort during the warmer South Dakota summers.

Secondly, the consistently praised "extremely nice campground" and "great campsites," coupled with "amazing" clean bathrooms and well-kept grounds, meet the high standards many South Dakotans have for their state parks. Knowing that the facilities are clean and well-maintained provides peace of mind, allowing families to fully relax and enjoy their time outdoors. The presence of a playground and the overall "family oriented place" atmosphere make it ideal for quick weekend trips or longer vacations with children.

Finally, its accessible location near Bruce and Brookings means it's within easy reach for many in Eastern South Dakota, reducing travel time and maximizing relaxation. This convenience, combined with the wide array of recreational activities available—from hiking and birding to various water sports—ensures that every visit can be a new adventure. Oakwood Lakes State Park, and specifically Campground 1, represents a cherished local resource where South Dakotans can easily connect with nature, create lasting family memories, and truly experience the beauty of their home state.

Campground 1

Bruce, SD 57220, USA