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Big Sioux Recreation Area

Overview

Nestled along the winding banks of the Big Sioux River, Big Sioux Recreation Area offers a tranquil retreat just minutes from South Dakota's largest city. This state-managed park provides a unique blend of lush prairie landscapes and dense woodlands, making it a favorite for those seeking a natural setting without sacrificing accessibility. Whether you are passing through on I-90 or planning a multi-day stay, the park serves as a scenic gateway to the region's rich outdoor heritage.

Location & Surroundings

Located in Brandon, SD, the park sits on the eastern edge of the state near the Minnesota border. The surrounding terrain is characterized by scenic river bluffs and a canopy of mature trees that offer shade and privacy for campers. Its proximity to Sioux Falls allows visitors to enjoy a secluded, rustic atmosphere while remaining within a ten-minute drive of modern conveniences, grocery stores, and diverse dining options found in the neighboring city.

Amenities & Park Features

The campground features 50 electric campsites equipped with 30-amp and 50-amp service to accommodate various rig sizes. While the sites do not offer individual sewer hookups, a central dump station and modern comfort stations with heated showers are easily accessible. Recreation is a major focus here, with an 18-hole disc golf course, a dedicated archery range, and paved pads that provide a level surface for easy RV setup in a quiet, wooded environment.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive trail system used for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The Big Sioux River provides opportunities for paddling and fishing, where anglers often catch walleye or northern pike from the shore. Just a short drive away, you can explore the stunning waterfalls at Falls Park in downtown Sioux Falls or visit the Great Plains Zoo. The nearby Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum also offers beautiful botanical displays for a quiet afternoon stroll.

Who This Park Is Best For

This park is ideal for travelers who prefer a peaceful state park atmosphere over a busy commercial resort. It is a perfect fit for families who enjoy active recreation like biking and disc golf, as well as birdwatchers looking to spot local species along the riverbanks. Because it offers a quiet, natural environment so close to the interstate, it is also an excellent choice for RVers seeking a restful overnight stop while traveling across the Great Plains.

Amenities

- Tenting

• Dedicated Tenting Area

- Recreational Facilities

• River
• Boating
• Fishing
• Ramp
• Body Of Water (Big Sioux River)
• Horseshoes
• Playground
• Outdoor Games
• Pavilion
• Horseback Riding
• Nature Trails
• Frisbee Golf
• Rec Open to the Public
• Archery Range
• Kayaking/Canoeing

- Policies

• Folding Tent Campers Allowed
• Pets Welcome
• Day Max Stay (14)
• Tent Camping Allowed

- Rentals

• Cabin/Cottage Rentals (3)

- Other Amenities & Services

• Road Condition (Good)
• Road Type (Gravel)
• Restroom and Showers
• Onsite Rentals (3)

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Fishing
• Hiking
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Boating
• Road Biking Trails

- Facility

• Type (State Park)
• Dump Station
• Partial Handicap Access
• Limited Facilities - Winter

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (49)
• Max Length (75)
• Gravel Sites (49)
• 20 Amp
• 30 Amp
• Shaded (Mostly)
• Electric (49)
• Max Amps (30)
• Back-ins (18 x 75)
• Room for Slideouts (Yes)
• Table at Site
• Tent-Only Sites (6)

User Reviews

Glenna Lamp

August 07, 2025

AMAZING place to go when your wanting to get away from city life but not really. Hiking trails are definitely something everyone should enjoy. I came out here and decided to extend our stay. Would definitely get a season pass or you will be paying 10 per day to have your car with you on top of your spot. Tent spots 24-26 are in the woods and let me tell you... TO DIE FOR if your looking for the full tent experience vs tent spots 48-50 are in a open field next to the playground so ideal for families! The cabins are adorable looking on the outside and look cozy inside.

TJ

July 22, 2025

Great park clean and well kept site was mostly level which for gravel is a shock. Electric hookups worked no issue bathrooms clean and showers have nice water pressure. Only complaint would be the water fill station could use some attention.

Donald Van Burkleo

July 16, 2025

This campgrounds has nice lots with amazing space between each campsite. The shower house is clean, it doesn’t have water at the campsite so be sure to grab some at the fill and dump station. It has some great trails near the river, some are paved and some are not. The disk golf course is also fun to hike, it has a cable bridge over the river. We completely enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend staying there.

Colleen Dussex

July 03, 2025

Beautiful campground near Sioux Falls, good Verizon Service, clean bathrooms. I was in 002, too close to trash cans. Site was roomy.

Amanda Sharrai

May 28, 2025

Overall disappointed with this park. We arrived around 8pm for camping for one night. The first thing I noticed was our site had a lot of trash which we removed prior to departure. The trash dumpster was also overflowing. We took hot showers which was wonderful. Shortly after our shower we were approached by another camper inquiring about our van camper. She asked a lot of strange questions and was lingering about. Then the camp host approached us and the first thing he asked was whether we paid the park entrance fees. What park entrance fees? We paid $30 for camping and now they want another $15 on top of that. It's a rip off. We will not be returning to this park. Anyone who says "God Bless" to you without knowing anything about your religion is annoying and pushy. On a positive note, the campground is quiet and the hiking trails and the foot bridge are nice!

Map for Big Sioux Recreation Area

Contact information