South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) officials say the Randall Creek Recreation Area Campground near Pickstown could be ready for campers as early as mid-May.
A new bridge leading into the campground is under construction to replace the flood-damaged bridge. The day-use area and boat ramp remained open and accessible to vehicles. However, with the bridge unusable, the campground has been closed since last March.
“We’re excited to get back into the campground, and we know our visitors are too,” said Jon Corey, District Park Supervisor. “The wet conditions and flooding hit everybody pretty hard last year. We’re all looking forward to a well-deserved summer of camping, fishing and roasting marshmallows.”
Corey says the bridge should be completed by Memorial Day weekend, but the park isn’t ready to start taking reservations just yet.
“Normally, reservations open 90 days before arrival,” he said. “Reservations for mid-May arrivals start opening right about now, but we’re going to hold off opening them up just yet. We want the construction crew to get a good start, and we’ll evaluate in mid-March. That will allow us to make a better determination about May and June availability.”
Camping reservations at Randall Creek for arrivals before June 19 will open once a definite completion date can be determined. Visitors can follow the construction project on the park’s Facebook page, facebook.com/NorthPointRandallCreek. To sign up for email notifications about reservations opening, contact parkinfo@state.sd.us.
Randall Creek Recreation Area Campground is located on the banks of the Missouri River, downstream from Fort Randall Dam. Spend hours peacefully watching the water flow, observing the animals and birds that frequent the area, and enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding shoreline.
The US Army Corps of Engineers began building the dam in 1946 and started generating electricity in 1954.
Randall Creek is one of the South Dakota state parks that offers the opportunity for visitors to see the majestic bald eagle. The eagle roost area in the park is a designated National Natural Landmark.
Camping fees do not include entrance fees, which are required year-round and in most areas. Fees are per night per unit. Check-in and check-out time for campsites is 4 p.m. or noon at Custer State Park.
If two camping units share a site, each unit must pay the camping fee. Not available on all sites. Check with park staff. A camping unit is a vehicle, motor home, camping bus, pull-type camper, tent or any other device designed for sleeping. Additional tents for a family (parents or grandparents and their unmarried minor children) are considered a single camping unit.
Camping Fees:
- Daily: $8 per vehicle
- Annual: $36 first vehicle | $18 for second vehicle | $80 transferable license
- Campsites – electrical: $23 per night
- Cabins: $55 per night
You may also be interested in these articles:
Choosing a Campsite: Our Top Tips
RV Camping Etiquette Tips