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Llewellyn Johns Recreation Area
Overview
Llewellyn Johns Recreation Area offers a tranquil retreat within the expansive Shadehill recreation complex. Situated just south of the North Dakota border, this small but scenic campground provides a peaceful alternative to busier state parks. Managed by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, it serves as a natural gateway for travelers exploring the vast prairies and rugged landscapes of the Grand River valley. This area is a hidden gem for those traversing the northern plains looking for a quiet place to rest.
Location & Surroundings
The park is nestled among ponderosa pines and deciduous trees, providing rare shade in the open plains of South Dakota. It is located approximately 12 miles south of Lemmon, near the north shore of Shadehill Reservoir. The surrounding terrain is characterized by rolling hills and diverse wildlife, making it a scenic stop for those traveling along the Outlaw Panorama Scenic Byway. The seclusion of the site ensures that the natural beauty of the prairie remains the primary focus of your stay.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a smaller, more intimate facility featuring 10 electric campsites that accommodate various RV sizes. While the park maintains a rustic charm, visitors have access to vault toilets, drinking water, and designated fire rings for evening campfires. The sites are well-spaced to ensure privacy, and the heavy tree cover offers a natural windbreak and cooling shade during the warm summer months. The campground allows for a more traditional outdoor experience while still providing the essential power needed for modern RVs.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Just a short drive away, the Shadehill Reservoir provides ample opportunities for boating, swimming, and trophy walleye fishing. History enthusiasts should not miss the Petrified Wood Park in downtown Lemmon, which is the largest of its kind in the world. Additionally, the nearby Hugh Glass monument honors the legendary frontiersman whose famous encounter with a grizzly bear took place in this very region, offering a touch of frontier history to your visit.
Who This Park Is Best For
This recreation area is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, low-key experience away from the crowds found at larger resorts. It is particularly well-suited for nature photographers, bird watchers, and those who appreciate a dark sky environment for stargazing. If you prefer a simpler, more authentic South Dakota camping experience where the sounds of the wind and local wildlife take center stage, this park is a perfect fit. Travelers looking for a convenient stopover near the border or a basecamp for exploring the Lemmon area will find the serenity they desire here.
Amenities
- Tenting
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
K H
Excellent little electric only RV sites with vault toilet, fresh water spigot and shelter
norman cox
Small campground with electric. I have a 35ft motor home and got into a space easily. Pulled the flat tow across sideways in front of us. Very clean. Vault toilet was spotless and didn't smell. Rest of the campground was clean. Bundle of dried leaves/ twigs left in each firepit. Very quiet all night long. Great for an overnight or a couple of days stay or for fishing in the lake. Also used when the other nearby parks are full. Can't remember if they charged extra because we are from out of State. A lot of State parks do. Doesn't cost any more to accommodate us than someone from in State. We don't do that in Arkansas and we don't charge to go into State parks. We are just glad you came to visit and spend your money here. We'll get that money back in Sales taxes.
Matt Holden
Good overflow campground if Shadehill or Hugh Glass is full. Across the street from restaurant store open seasonally. Tenters, you will hear vehicle noise from state highway and road to Shadehill
John B
We were in #4 with a tent. The best tent spots are 3 and 4, as far as flat grassy space goes. Just watch for low spots if rain and puddles are a problem for you. The place was very well kept. Mowed regularly, and litter picked up. The newer vault toilet is a bit nicer, the old ones are about what is expected. Water! The faucet is clean and cold, and the water tasted great on some 90 degree plus days. There is a store right across the road, if you need ice, a snack, fishing tackle, or bait. Overall it was a quiet, comfortable stay, and we plan to return.
Robert Pampush
Camp site was dirty. There was trash all over the place. The lots were also incredibly small and we were on top of the other campers. There were kids running around late at night making a lot of noise (not the fault of the camp site but exacerbated the small and close lot issue) Finally, they kept having employees drive by all night. No doubt to ensure people were following rules. But, again, since the site was so small the truck would pass within feet of the tent and the headlights were a nightmare.