Campground

For those in South Dakota seeking a premier outdoor destination that perfectly blends natural beauty with abundant recreational opportunities, Lake Herman State Park Campground in Madison is an exceptional choice. Nestled on a scenic peninsula overlooking the expansive Lake Herman, this state park offers a welcoming and well-maintained environment for campers of all kinds. Whether you're bringing an RV, setting up a tent, or opting for a cozy cabin, Lake Herman State Park provides a fantastic backdrop for creating lasting memories with family and friends. We understand that a great camping trip involves more than just a place to stay; it's about the activities, the amenities, and the overall experience, and Lake Herman State Park excels in delivering on all fronts.

South Dakota's state parks are renowned for their natural splendor and commitment to outdoor recreation, and Lake Herman State Park stands as a shining example in the eastern part of the state. Imagine spending your days enjoying two well-maintained swimming beaches, exploring miles of hiking trails, casting a line into a productive fishing lake, or simply relaxing by your campfire under the vast South Dakota sky. Our dedication to providing clean facilities, including modern restrooms and showers, ensures a comfortable and hassle-free stay. Families particularly love our dedicated playgrounds, which offer a safe and fun space for children to play. Visitors consistently praise the park for its upkeep and the variety of activities available, often highlighting the spacious and well-maintained campsites. Despite its popularity, the park maintains a peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature. From the historical significance of the area, once a gathering place for Native American tribes, to the modern conveniences of a top-tier campground, Lake Herman State Park offers a comprehensive and deeply satisfying outdoor experience for every South Dakotan and visitor alike.

Lake Herman State Park Campground is ideally situated at 23409 State Park Drive, Madison, SD 57042, USA. This prime location places you just two miles west of Madison, off SD Highway 34, making it incredibly accessible for travelers from various parts of South Dakota and beyond. Madison, the county seat of Lake County, is a vibrant community with all the essential services you might need, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay. The park's position on a peninsula provides spectacular views of Lake Herman, making for picturesque mornings and evenings right from your campsite. Its proximity to major roadways means less time navigating and more time enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that abound.

The accessibility of Lake Herman State Park extends beyond its immediate boundaries, providing easy reach to local amenities and attractions in Madison and the surrounding area. While the park itself offers a wealth of activities, a short drive into Madison provides access to grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and other essential services. Madison is also home to Dakota State University, which contributes a lively atmosphere to the town and often hosts public events. For those interested in local history, the Herman Luce Cabin, a historic structure dating back to 1870-71, is located within the park, offering a glimpse into early South Dakota life. The park's central location in East Central South Dakota also makes it a convenient base for exploring other nearby natural attractions and charming small towns, blending the tranquility of a state park setting with the practicality of nearby urban conveniences.

At Lake Herman State Park Campground, we offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to make your camping experience as comfortable and convenient as possible. Our commitment is to provide well-maintained facilities and essential amenities that cater to the needs of all campers, from those with large RVs to tent enthusiasts.

• Diverse Campsite Options: We feature 71 campsites, with most offering electric hookups (30 and 50 amp availability at various sites). We also have non-electrical sites for tent camping and several cozy camping cabins for rent, accommodating various preferences.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean, well-maintained flush toilets and modern shower facilities are available, ensuring comfort during your stay. (Water systems are typically operational from May 1 to October 1, weather permitting; vault toilets remain open year-round).
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
• Drinking Water: Potable water spigots are accessible throughout the campground.
• Campsite Amenities: Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring, and grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering around a campfire.
• Boat Ramp: An easy-access boat ramp is provided for launching boats, kayaks, and canoes onto Lake Herman.
• Picnic Shelters: Several picnic shelters are available for day use or group gatherings, some of which are ADA accessible.
• Rentals Available: Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards can be rented on-site, and fishing poles and games can be checked out, adding to your recreational options.
• Visitor Center: A welcoming visitor center provides information about the park and surrounding area.
• Firewood Available: Firewood is available for purchase at the park office.

Lake Herman State Park Campground offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a truly outstanding destination for outdoor enthusiasts in South Dakota. These elements contribute to its reputation as a family-friendly and activity-rich park, ensuring there's something enjoyable for everyone.

• Two Swimming Beaches: Enjoy refreshing dips at our two well-maintained sand swimming beaches, perfect for families with small children and for cooling off on warm South Dakota days.
• Multiple Playgrounds: Dedicated playground areas provide ample entertainment for kids, ensuring they have plenty of space to play and explore.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Lake Herman is a 1,350-acre lake known for its great fishing, with a variety of species including Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch, and Bass. A fishing dock, including a handicapped-accessible one, is also available.
• Extensive Trail System: Explore over 3 miles of scenic hiking trails, including the Luce Adventure Trail with interpretive signs, the Abbott Trail for bird watching, and the Pioneer Trail, suitable for all skill levels. These trails are also popular for cross-country skiing in winter.
• Boating and Water Sports: The expansive Lake Herman is ideal for boating, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, offering endless water-based fun.
• Disc Golf Course: A disc golf course is available for all skill levels, providing a fun outdoor challenge.
• Wildlife Observation: The park's native oak woodlands and prairie grasses are home to a variety of birds and animals, making it excellent for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
• Seasonal Activities: The park often hosts weekend activities during the warmer months, adding to the entertainment options for families.
• Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved pets are welcome on campsites and trails (must be leashed).

For reservations, current fees, or any specific inquiries regarding Lake Herman State Park Campground, please contact the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks. Reservations for campsites and cabins can be easily made online through the South Dakota GFP reservations portal, or by phone. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred site at this popular destination.

Address: 23409 State Park Dr, Madison, SD 57042, USA

Phone: (605) 256-5003

Email: LakeHerman@state.sd.us

Website for Reservations: www.campsd.com or www.gfp.sd.gov/state-parks/directory/lake-herman-state-park/

Lake Herman State Park Campground is an outstanding choice for anyone in South Dakota seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable outdoor experience. Its blend of extensive recreational activities, including two beaches, playgrounds, diverse trails, and excellent fishing, coupled with well-maintained facilities and a range of camping options, makes it perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The peaceful setting on Lake Herman, combined with convenient access to Madison's amenities, ensures a relaxing yet engaging stay. For a memorable camping adventure that truly captures the beauty and recreational spirit of East Central South Dakota, look no further than Lake Herman State Park Campground. It's a place where every visit promises fun, relaxation, and lasting memories by the lake.

Campground

23409 State Park Dr, Madison, SD 57042, USA