Gunderson Park

For South Dakotans seeking a genuine outdoor escape that combines natural beauty with incredible value, Gunderson Park in Centerville stands as a truly unique and appealing destination. This isn't your typical full-service RV resort; instead, it offers a refreshing return to a simpler, more authentic camping experience. Tucked away just outside the charming small town of Centerville, Gunderson Park provides a serene environment perfect for those who appreciate peace, natural surroundings, and the freedom of dispersed camping. Whether you're a minimalist tent camper, a self-contained RVer, or simply looking for a quiet spot to enjoy the South Dakota landscape, Gunderson Park offers an accessible and free option that’s hard to beat. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, enjoy the sounds of nature, and rediscover the joy of a no-frills outdoor adventure, all within easy reach for locals across the state.

Gunderson Park is located in Centerville, SD 57014, USA. Situated just outside the main town, its location offers a perfect blend of peaceful natural surroundings and convenient access to local amenities. For South Dakota residents, getting to Gunderson Park is relatively straightforward. While one review mentioned the county road in being "a bit rough as it seems to be under some sort of construction," another more recent review happily noted that "The road to the park was just recently repaved," indicating improved accessibility. Centerville itself is a quaint, friendly small town, providing a charming backdrop for your camping trip. The park's proximity to town, accessible via a "mile long (one way) paved path that leads to the local football field" and eventually into Centerville, is a significant advantage. This allows campers to easily walk or bike into town for supplies, a meal, or to explore local spots like Zebra King donuts, which one reviewer enthusiastically recommended as "worth the stop!" This blend of natural seclusion and community accessibility makes Gunderson Park an ideal spot for a quick getaway or a longer, relaxing stay, especially for those who prefer to keep their travels within the beautiful borders of South Dakota.

Gunderson Park operates as a free, primitive campground, meaning it offers a more rustic experience compared to full-service parks. It's designed for self-contained campers who appreciate simplicity and the natural environment. While it doesn't boast extensive amenities, it provides the fundamental necessities for a comfortable primitive stay, along with some unexpected bonuses:

• Free Camping: This is one of the most significant services offered. Gunderson Park provides free camping, making it an incredibly economical choice for overnight stays.
• Dispersed Camping: There are no strictly designated individual sites; instead, campers can generally "park just about anywhere" within the designated areas, offering flexibility for both RV and tent campers.
• Permit Requirement: While free, camping is permitted by obtaining a permit from Centerville City Hall. It is crucial to call City Hall to secure this permit before your stay.
• No Water/Restrooms/Trash Cans On-Site: It's important to note that Gunderson Park is a self-contained camping area. This means "No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans." Campers must be prepared to bring their own water, manage their waste, and practice "Pack-In Pack-Out" principles.
• Fire Rings: Some sources indicate the presence of a couple of fire rings for tent campers and a stone hearth for small groups, allowing for campfires (subject to local fire restrictions).
• Boat Ramp: There is a small concrete boat ramp, making it suitable for launching small boats or kayaks onto the adjacent tributary of the Missouri River (often referred to as the Vermillion River).
• Mowed Grass: Reviewers have praised the well-maintained grounds, with one noting, "The grass is mowed and nicer than my yard," indicating a clean and tidy environment despite its primitive nature.
• Verizon Cell Service: A significant plus for a primitive site, "The Verizon cell service was pretty decent as well," allowing campers to stay connected if needed.

Gunderson Park's charm lies in its distinctive features and highlights, which make it a beloved spot for those seeking a tranquil and authentic outdoor experience in South Dakota:

• Free Camping Opportunity: The most outstanding highlight is undeniably the fact that it offers free camping. This makes it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious travelers and locals looking for an affordable getaway.
• Peaceful, Natural Setting: The park provides a serene environment bordered on three sides by a tributary of the Missouri River (the Vermillion River), offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying river views. The presence of "lots of mulberry trees around" and "massive, shady trees that date back to the 1800s" contributes to a very peaceful and shaded atmosphere.
• Paved Walking/Biking Path to Town: The "mile long (one way) paved path that leads to the local football field" and into Centerville is a fantastic amenity. It allows campers to easily walk or bike to explore the town, grab a coffee or donut (especially from Zebra King Donuts!), and access local services without needing to drive. This unique feature blends a nature retreat with small-town convenience.
• Flexible Camping - No Designated Sites: The ability to "park just about anywhere" and the absence of strictly designated spots offers a sense of freedom and openness that many dispersed campers appreciate. This also means "lots of open sky for solar" for those with solar setups.
• Dog-Friendly: While a dedicated dog park isn't specifically mentioned on-site, the open spaces and walking path make it a suitable location for campers with pets, as long as city ordinances regarding leashing and cleanup are followed.
• Good Cell Service: For a primitive campground, decent Verizon cell service is a notable advantage, allowing campers to remain connected or handle emergencies if necessary.
• Seasonal Operation: It's important to highlight that camping is generally available from "Memorial Day to Labor Day" (weather permitting). While some campers have stayed outside this season without issue, it's advised to confirm with City Hall for off-season stays to avoid any complications.

For inquiries regarding permits, current conditions, or any other questions about Gunderson Park, the best point of contact is the City of Centerville Hall:

• Address: Centerville, SD 57014, USA (For City Hall inquiries, the physical address is 741 Main Street, Centerville, SD, though the park's address is sufficient for GPS navigation to the park itself).
• Phone: (605) 563-2302 (Centerville City Hall - recommended for obtaining permits and inquiries)

As camping is free but requires a permit, it is essential to call City Hall during business hours (Monday-Friday) to ensure you have the necessary authorization for your stay. This proactive step will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

In conclusion, Gunderson Park in Centerville, South Dakota, is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for locals across the state seeking an authentic and remarkably affordable outdoor experience. Its primary draw is the unparalleled benefit of "free camping," making it an incredibly accessible option for budget-conscious adventurers. The park's commitment to a "primitive camping" style means a true escape into nature, surrounded by "massive, shady trees" and the tranquil sounds of the Vermillion River. This raw beauty is complemented by the convenience of a "mile long (one way) paved path that leads to the local football field" and directly into Centerville, allowing campers to easily access town amenities without driving. Furthermore, the flexibility of dispersed camping, the presence of fire rings, and surprisingly "decent Verizon cell service" enhance the comfort and functionality of a primitive site. While it requires campers to be self-contained regarding water, restrooms, and trash, this expectation aligns perfectly with the ethos of free, rustic camping. For South Dakotans eager to embrace the peaceful charm of a small town, enjoy fishing and nature, and unwind in a beautiful, low-cost setting, Gunderson Park stands out as a true gem, embodying the spirit of accessible outdoor recreation in the Mount Rushmore State.

Gunderson Park

Centerville, SD 57014, USA