Richmond Lake Recreation Area - South Unit

For South Dakotans seeking a serene and accessible outdoor escape, the Richmond Lake Recreation Area - South Unit near Aberdeen stands out as a true local gem. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a "very lovely state park" that offers a refreshing retreat, combining the tranquility of nature with a host of recreational activities. Whether you're a family looking for a fun lakeside vacation, an angler hoping for a great catch, or simply someone yearning for a quiet night under the stars, the South Unit provides an ideal setting right here in the heart of our beautiful state. It's the kind of place that feels both convenient and wonderfully removed, allowing you to truly unwind.

Richmond Lake Recreation Area itself is a vibrant outdoor destination centered around a 1,000-acre lake, located just 11 miles northwest of Aberdeen. The entire recreation area is thoughtfully divided into three distinct units, each catering to different interests. The South Unit, our focus, is specifically designed for campers, offering a well-equipped campground with electrical sites and a cozy camping cabin, along with a swimming beach and picnic areas perfect for family enjoyment. Beyond the South Unit, the Forest Drive Unit boasts an extensive multi-use trail system for hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing in the winter, alongside an 18-hole disc golf course. The Boat Ramp Unit, as its name suggests, provides direct access to the expansive lake for boating enthusiasts. This comprehensive array of facilities ensures that no matter your preferred outdoor activity, Richmond Lake Recreation Area has something to offer, making it a versatile and popular choice for local residents looking for diverse recreational opportunities close to home.

Richmond Lake Recreation Area - South Unit is conveniently located at 12800 379th Ave, Aberdeen, SD 57401, USA. Its proximity to Aberdeen, one of South Dakota's larger cities, makes it highly accessible for many residents across the state. Typically, visitors would access the park via U.S. Highway 281, heading approximately 11 miles northwest from Aberdeen.

The roads leading to and within the Richmond Lake Recreation Area, including the South Unit, are generally well-maintained. The park's official information indicates that the campground features paved roads and the sites themselves are equipped to handle various vehicle sizes. This ensures a relatively smooth and straightforward journey for those traveling with RVs, trailers, or standard passenger vehicles. One reviewer noted their visit after Labor Day, describing the experience as "Quiet. Clean. Easy. Handy to our travels." This suggests that the park's accessibility extends beyond just the roads, encompassing a user-friendly and uncrowded environment, particularly during off-peak seasons. The "easy" nature of access contributes significantly to its appeal as a convenient and stress-free camping destination for South Dakotans looking for a quick getaway without the hassle of navigating difficult terrain. The presence of a public boat launch within the recreation area further enhances accessibility for water sports enthusiasts, allowing easy entry for private boats onto the 1,000-acre lake.

Services Offered:

• Electrical Campsites: The South Unit campground features 24 electrical campsites, providing 30 and 50-amp electrical service at each site. This is a significant convenience for RV and trailer campers.
• Camping Cabin: A one-room camping cabin is available for rent, equipped with heating and air conditioning, and sleeping space for four people, offering a comfortable alternative to traditional tent camping.
• Tent Sites: In addition to electrical sites, the South Unit also offers two dedicated tent-only sites for those who prefer traditional tent camping.
• Comfort Station with Showers and Flush Toilets: Campers have access to a comfort station with modern amenities, including showers and flush toilets, enhancing the overall camping experience. Note that water systems, including showers and flush toilets, may be closed between October 1 and April 30 due to winterization; vault toilets usually remain open year-round.
• Dump and Fill Station: An RV dump and fill station is available, allowing campers to easily dispose of wastewater and replenish fresh water supplies.
• Swimming Beach: The South Unit boasts a designated swimming beach, perfect for cooling off during warm South Dakota summers.
• Picnic Areas and Playgrounds: Numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, along with playgrounds, are available within the South Unit, making it ideal for family outings and day use.
• Public Boat Ramp: A public boat ramp is accessible from the South Unit, providing convenient access for launching boats onto Richmond Lake for fishing and other water activities.
• Firewood Availability: Firewood is often available for purchase at the park, ensuring campers can enjoy campfires.

Features / Highlights:

• Lakeside Recreation Opportunities: Richmond Lake, a 1,000-acre body of water, is the centerpiece of the recreation area. Campers at the South Unit have direct access to a wide array of water activities, including boating, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking (rentals available), paddleboarding (rentals available), and excellent fishing. The lake is well-stocked with walleye, northern pike, bass, perch, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and bullheads.
• Quiet and Peaceful Environment: Reviewers consistently highlight the "quiet" atmosphere, especially during off-peak times. One visitor noted "2 other campers. Quiet. Clean. Easy," emphasizing the peaceful ambiance that allows for true relaxation. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil escape.
• Well-Maintained Hiking Trails: The park features "nice meandering hiking trails," including a 3.2-mile multi-use trail in the South Unit. These trails offer opportunities for walking, enjoying nature, and observing local wildlife, making it suitable for both casual strolls and more vigorous exercise.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a swimming beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas, the South Unit is particularly well-suited for families with children, providing ample opportunities for recreation and quality time together in the outdoors.
• Affordable for Locals: While one review mentioned affordability for "out of staters," it implies that the park offers reasonable rates, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for South Dakota residents.
• Year-Round Accessibility: The park is open year-round, offering different recreational opportunities depending on the season. While water systems may be closed in winter, activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are available in other units of the recreation area.
• Proximity to Aberdeen Attractions: While providing a natural escape, the campground is close enough to Aberdeen (11 miles) for easy access to city amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and local attractions like Storybook Land and Wylie Park, should campers wish to venture beyond the park's boundaries.

Contact Information:

Address: 12800 379th Ave, Aberdeen, SD 57401, USA

Phone: (605) 626-3488

Mobile Phone: +1 605-626-3488

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the official South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) reservation system online or call their customer service center. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance, and booking early is advisable, especially for peak seasons.

For South Dakotans, the Richmond Lake Recreation Area - South Unit offers an exemplary blend of convenience, natural beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities, making it an ideal choice for a local getaway. Its accessible location near Aberdeen means less time driving and more time enjoying the outdoors. The "clean" and "quiet" environment, as noted by visitors, ensures a truly relaxing experience, a welcome respite from daily life.

The availability of electrical campsites and a comfortable camping cabin caters to various preferences, while the extensive amenities like the swimming beach, picnic areas, and boat ramp ensure there's always something to do. The "nice meandering hiking trail" invites exploration, and the excellent fishing opportunities on Richmond Lake are a significant draw for anglers. This state park proves that a fantastic outdoor adventure doesn't require traveling far; it's right here, affordable and ready to be enjoyed. Richmond Lake Recreation Area - South Unit is perfectly suited for South Dakotans seeking a convenient, clean, and activity-filled camping experience that truly connects them with their state's natural charm.

Richmond Lake Recreation Area - South Unit

12800 379th Ave, Aberdeen, SD 57401, USA