Oakwood Lakes Campground 2

Welcome to Oakwood Lakes Campground 2, a beautiful and popular camping destination nestled within the picturesque Oakwood Lakes State Park in Bruce, South Dakota. For locals across the Mount Rushmore State, from the vibrant cities to the serene glacial lakes region, finding an accessible, amenity-rich, and naturally stunning spot for an outdoor escape is a true treasure. Oakwood Lakes State Park, with its eight connecting glacial lakes, offers a diverse array of activities throughout the year, and Campground 2 provides a fantastic base for exploring all of it. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of what makes this specific campground, and the broader state park, an ideal choice for your next South Dakota adventure, highlighting its features, services, and why it's so well-suited for residents seeking both relaxation and active recreation.

Oakwood Lakes State Park is renowned for its natural beauty, where lush woodlands intertwine with sparkling lakes, remnants of glacial retreat thousands of years ago. Campground 2, like Campground 1, is designed to enhance this experience, offering spacious, often grassy sites with essential amenities. Visitors consistently praise the park for its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, including modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the overall peaceful ambiance. It’s a place where you can easily gather around a campfire after a day of adventure, enjoying the quiet nights and the beauty of nature.

For South Dakota residents, the appeal of Oakwood Lakes Campground 2 extends beyond its scenic beauty. As part of a state park, it offers a managed and reliable camping experience with a variety of recreational opportunities. Whether your passion lies in water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming, or land-based adventures such as hiking, disc golf, or exploring historical landmarks, this park has something for everyone. The presence of well-maintained trails, a swimming beach, and even historical structures like Mortimer's Cabin adds layers of interest to any visit. It’s an ideal setting for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors without venturing too far from convenient services, making it a perfect local escape within South Dakota’s beautiful glacial lakes region.

Oakwood Lakes Campground 2 is located within Oakwood Lakes State Park, with its address being Bruce, SD 57220, USA. This prime location in eastern South Dakota positions it amidst a chain of eight connecting glacial lakes, providing a scenic and activity-rich environment. The park is situated northwest of Brookings, a larger city with additional amenities, and is easily accessible from major routes.

Access to Oakwood Lakes State Park, and subsequently Campground 2, is straightforward for South Dakota residents. The park is conveniently located off US Highway 14 and is also accessible from Exit 140 on I-29, a major interstate running north-south through the eastern part of the state. From Bruce, it's a short drive of approximately 0.0 miles, as the park is essentially adjacent to the town. From Brookings, it's about an 11-mile drive. These well-maintained roads ensure easy navigation for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and those towing trailers.

The park's internal road network is designed for easy maneuvering, with large loops and spacious sites. Within the state park, Campground 2 is well-signed, guiding visitors directly to their designated camping area. The park's layout also features paved multi-use trails that connect various points of interest, allowing campers to easily walk or bike to different amenities and attractions within the park.

While offering a serene natural escape, the campground's proximity to Bruce and nearby Brookings ensures that essential services are never far away. Campers can quickly access grocery stores, gas stations, and other local businesses for any supplies or needs. This blend of remote natural beauty and convenient access to town amenities makes Oakwood Lakes Campground 2 an exceptionally desirable location for South Dakota locals seeking an enjoyable and practical outdoor experience.

Oakwood Lakes Campground 2, as part of a well-maintained South Dakota State Park, offers a comprehensive range of services designed for comfortable and engaging camping experiences:

• Campsites: Features numerous spacious, grassy sites, suitable for both RVs and tents. There are 133 electrical sites and 6 non-electrical (tent) sites within the overall state park. Campground 2 specifically offers electrical hookups.
• Electric Hookups: RV sites typically come with electric hookups (common amp services would be 20, 30, and 50 amp).
• Water Access: Potable water spigots are interspersed throughout the campground.
• Modern Shower Houses: Clean and well-maintained bathrooms with hot showers are available, ensuring comfort for campers.
• Flush Toilets: Modern flush toilets are provided in the comfort stations.
• RV Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available within the state park for RV waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grates: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit or grate for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Cabins: The state park also offers camping cabins for rent (6 cabins sleep 4 people each), located on the northern edge of Campground 2.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area is available for children.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach on Johnson Lake provides a refreshing spot for a dip during warmer months.
• Boat Launches: Multiple boat launches provide easy access to the lakes for boating and water sports.
• Fishing Docks: Handicap-accessible fishing docks are available for anglers.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Access to almost 5 miles of trails, including the Tetonkaha Trail, suitable for walking, hiking, and biking.
• Disc Golf Course: A 9-hole disc golf course is available for recreational play.
• Horse Camp & Trails: The park includes a horse camp and dedicated horse trails for equestrian enthusiasts.
• Self-serve Entrance Kiosk: For convenient park entry.
• Warming Shelter: Available for use, particularly during colder seasons.

• Eight Connecting Glacial Lakes: The unique landscape of eight interconnected lakes provides a stunning backdrop and endless opportunities for water-based activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Spacious & Grassy Campsites: Campers consistently praise the large, well-maintained, grassy sites that offer plenty of room and a natural feel.
• Clean & Modern Facilities: Well-kept bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets are a significant highlight, enhancing the camping experience.
• Diverse Recreational Activities: Offers a wide array of activities including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, biking (on trails and roads), disc golf, and even horse trails.
• Historical Landmarks: Features Mortimer's cabin, an original settler log cabin from 1869, adding a historical and educational element to visits. There are also prehistoric burial mounds.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a swimming beach, playground, and various trails, it's an ideal destination for families with children.
• Wildlife Viewing: Abundant opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife.
• Year-Round Recreation: The park offers activities throughout all four seasons, including ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in winter.
• Shaded Campgrounds: Ample tree coverage provides natural shade, making for comfortable stays.
• Pet-Friendly: Leashed pets are allowed, making it a great option for those traveling with their furry companions.

Address: Bruce, SD 57220, USA (specifically, Oakwood Lakes State Park is located at 20247 Oakwood Drive, Bruce, SD 57220)

Phone: (605) 627-5441

Email: OakwoodLakes@state.sd.us

For reservations, current fees, or any specific inquiries regarding Campground 2 or other park facilities, it is recommended to contact the Oakwood Lakes State Park office directly at the provided phone number or email address. Reservations for campsites can also typically be made through the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website.

For South Dakota locals, Oakwood Lakes Campground 2, situated within the stunning Oakwood Lakes State Park, is an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for their next outdoor adventure. Its prime location in eastern South Dakota, easily accessible from major cities like Brookings and the I-29 corridor, means residents can quickly transition from their daily routines to a serene natural escape without extensive travel. This convenience makes it ideal for spontaneous weekend getaways, longer family vacations, or even just day trips to enjoy the park's extensive amenities.

The true allure for South Dakotans lies in the park's diverse and year-round recreational opportunities. With eight connecting glacial lakes, water enthusiasts have endless options for boating, fishing, swimming at the designated beach, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Anglers will appreciate the readily available fishing docks. On land, the well-maintained hiking and biking trails offer scenic routes for all fitness levels, while the disc golf course provides a fun challenge. Families will particularly enjoy the playground and the opportunity to explore historical landmarks like Mortimer's Cabin, blending outdoor fun with educational insights. The park’s commitment to cleanliness, with modern showers and flush toilets, ensures a comfortable experience even in the heart of nature.

Furthermore, as a state park, Oakwood Lakes offers a reliable and well-managed environment, ensuring a safe and pleasant experience. The availability of spacious, shaded campsites, including those with electrical hookups, caters to a variety of camping styles, from RVs to tents, and even offers cabins for those desiring more comfort. This blend of accessibility, comprehensive amenities, and a wide array of activities—all set within a beautiful natural landscape—makes Oakwood Lakes Campground 2 an invaluable resource for South Dakota locals seeking to connect with the outdoors, create lasting memories, and enjoy the diverse beauty of their home state.

Oakwood Lakes Campground 2

Bruce, SD 57220, USA