Forestry Department

For South Dakotans seeking a convenient and amenity-rich outdoor experience, Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground in Watertown offers an exceptional lakeside retreat. Managed by the City of Watertown's Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department, this well-regarded campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comforts, making it an ideal destination for families, RV enthusiasts, and tent campers alike. Situated on the shores of the picturesque Lake Kampeska, it’s a local gem that promises memorable moments without the need for extensive travel across the state.

Camping in South Dakota is about embracing the vast landscapes and serene waters. Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground encapsulates this spirit, offering not just a place to stay, but a vibrant recreational hub. Whether your passion lies in fishing, swimming, leisurely walks along the lake, or simply relaxing by a campfire, this campground is equipped to cater to a wide array of outdoor pursuits. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of what makes Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground a top choice for residents of South Dakota, highlighting its fantastic location, diverse services, and inviting features.

Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground is ideally situated at 90 South Lake Drive, Watertown, SD 57201, USA. This prime location places it directly on the beautiful shores of Lake Kampeska, a significant natural asset in northeastern South Dakota. The campground's address indicates its position right next to the Casino Speedway, which, while offering entertainment, is a factor some campers might note regarding potential noise, particularly on race nights. However, its lakeside setting and proximity to Watertown's core services generally outweigh this for most visitors.

For South Dakota residents, the campground's accessibility is a major draw. Watertown is easily reached via major highways such as I-29 and US Highway 212, making the park a convenient destination from various parts of the state. Once in Watertown, clear signage directs visitors to the lake and the campground. Its closeness to city amenities means campers have quick access to grocery stores, restaurants, fuel, and other essential services, ensuring a hassle-free camping trip. The balance between being immersed in nature by the lake and having the conveniences of a city just minutes away makes Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground a highly practical and appealing choice for local outdoor enthusiasts.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers 63 campsites, accommodating a wide range of preferences from tent camping to RVs.

• Full Hookup Campsites: Six dedicated full hookup campsites are available, providing water, sewer, and 50-amp electricity for maximum RV convenience.

• Standard Campsites with Hookups: Many campsites come with 30-50 amp electricity and water hookups.

• Camping Cabins: Four cozy camping cabins are available for those seeking a more comfortable "glamping" experience without needing to bring their own RV or tent.

• Modern Comfort Stations: The park features modern comfort stations, which include clean restrooms and showers, ensuring a refreshing experience for all campers.

• RV Dump Station: A convenient RV dump station is on-site for proper wastewater disposal.

• Online and Phone Reservations: Reservations can be made easily online or by phone, although booking fees may apply. Note: Historically, some sites might have been first-come, first-served, but current information points to reservable sites.

• Picnic Shelters: Several picnic shelters are available, ideal for group gatherings, family reunions, or shaded outdoor meals.

• Full-Time Park Manager: The presence of a full-time park manager ensures professional oversight, assistance for campers, and consistent maintenance of the facilities.

• Lakeside Location on Lake Kampeska: The primary highlight is its stunning location directly on Lake Kampeska, offering beautiful lake views from many sites and easy access to water activities.

• Beach Area & Non-Supervised Swimming: A designated beach area allows for relaxation by the water, with non-supervised swimming available for cooling off during warm summer days.

• Boat Launching Facilities: For water sports enthusiasts, the campground provides convenient boat launching facilities, making it easy to get out on Lake Kampeska for fishing, boating, or kayaking.

• Multiple Playgrounds: The facility boasts two or three playground areas (information varies slightly), providing ample entertainment and safe play spaces for children.

• Large Picnic Area: An expansive picnic area complements the campground, perfect for day visitors or larger group gatherings.

• Bike/Jogging Trail: A dedicated bike and jogging trail offers a scenic route for exercise and leisurely strolls within the park.

• Well-Maintained Grounds: Reviews consistently praise the campground for being very well kept, with neatly mowed grass and clean facilities.

• Tornado Shelter: For safety during severe weather, a tornado shelter is available, offering peace of mind to campers.

• Proximity to Veterans Memorial: A touching Veterans Memorial is located nearby, offering a place for quiet reflection and a scenic walk.

• Scenic Sunsets: Campers often highlight the "awesome sunset view" from their sites over Lake Kampeska, creating memorable evening experiences.

• Spacious Sites: Many sites are described as spacious, offering ample room for campers to spread out, even during busier periods.

For reservations, inquiries about availability, or any other information regarding Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground, please use the following contact details, which are associated with the City of Watertown's Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department:

Address: 90 South Lake Drive, Watertown, SD 57201, USA

Phone: (605) 886-4510 (This number is associated with the City of Watertown's Forestry/Parks & Rec department, which manages the campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 605-886-4510

It is highly recommended to call ahead or visit the official City of Watertown Parks, Recreation & Forestry website for the most current information on reservation policies, fees, and park hours, especially as these can change seasonally or for special events (e.g., potential noise from the nearby speedway on race nights).

Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for residents of South Dakota, particularly those in the eastern part of the state. Its primary appeal lies in its outstanding accessibility and its rich array of amenities, all situated within a beautiful lakeside setting. For locals, this means less time spent traveling and more time enjoying the great outdoors right in their own backyard.

The variety of camping options, from full-hookup RV sites to comfortable camping cabins, caters to every preference, ensuring that families, couples, and solo adventurers can find their ideal setup. The modern comfort stations with clean restrooms and showers are a significant bonus, providing essential conveniences that enhance the camping experience. Features like multiple playgrounds, a designated beach, and a bike/jogging trail make it an especially attractive destination for families, offering endless opportunities for children to play and explore in a safe environment.

Beyond the amenities, the campground's location on Lake Kampeska is a major draw. The ability to launch a boat directly from the park, fish from the shore, or simply enjoy the "awesome sunset views" over the water adds immense value. For those who appreciate well-maintained public spaces, the presence of a full-time park manager and consistent positive reviews about the cleanliness of the grounds and facilities underscore a commitment to quality. While the proximity to a speedway might bring some noise on certain evenings, many campers find the overall benefits, including the convenience of nearby city services, far outweigh this minor consideration.

In summary, Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground represents a fantastic opportunity for South Dakotans to connect with nature, engage in diverse recreational activities, and create lasting memories without the logistical challenges of distant travel. It's a testament to Watertown's commitment to providing high-quality outdoor spaces for its community and the surrounding region, making it an ideal choice for your next local camping adventure.

Forestry Department

124 1st Ave NW, Watertown, SD 57201, USA