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Shadehill Recreation Area
Overview
Shadehill Recreation Area offers a surprising oasis in the rolling prairie of northwestern South Dakota. Centered around one of the region's largest reservoirs, this park provides a unique blend of water-based recreation and rugged western history. It is a managed state park that invites travelers to experience the vast horizons and serene atmosphere of the high plains, making it a standout destination for those exploring the less-traveled corridors of the state. The park is defined by its quiet beauty and spacious layout.
Location & Surroundings
Situated approximately 12 miles south of Lemmon, the park sits at the confluence of the North and South forks of the Grand River. The landscape is defined by its open spaces, golden grasses, and the massive Shadehill Reservoir. Because of its remote location, visitors enjoy exceptionally dark night skies and a deep sense of solitude. The surrounding prairie is home to diverse wildlife, offering a true South Dakota wilderness experience far from the noise of the interstate corridors.
Amenities & Park Features
The park features several campgrounds with electric hookups suitable for various RV sizes, including big rigs. Travelers have access to modern comfort stations with showers, a convenient dump station, and potable water. For those who enjoy the water, there are multiple boat ramps, a designated swimming beach, and well-maintained fish cleaning stations. Picnic shelters and a playground make it family-friendly, while the expansive sites ensure you have plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the reservoir views.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts frequent the area for trophy fishing, particularly for walleye, smallmouth bass, and northern pike. History buffs should visit the nearby Hugh Glass Monument, which commemorates the legendary mountain man's struggle for survival in this very terrain. A short drive into Lemmon reveals the world-renowned Petrified Wood Park, a unique folk-art museum built from prehistoric fossils. Hiking trails around the dam offer excellent bird-watching opportunities and panoramic views of the water and surrounding hills.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-sufficient RVers who appreciate quiet evenings and natural beauty over resort-style commercial amenities. It is a paradise for anglers and boaters looking for uncrowded waters and easy lake access. If you are a history enthusiast or a traveler seeking a peaceful, scenic stopover while traversing the northern plains, Shadehill offers the perfect balance of recreation and relaxation. It is best suited for those who value wide-open spaces and the authentic charm of the rural West.
Amenities
- Tenting
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Rentals
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Paul Williams
Just stopped by to let the dog get some swimming in. The facilities were great, clean. The campground was large with what appeared to be good amenities. We are looking forward to returning next year for some bird hunting.
Misty Dawn
Nice quiet and fun for all the family lol I go every year on my bday.
Courtney Ledet
Nice level sites. Stayed at 58E, there was a vaulted toilet & water supply to the left of the site. Very nicely maintained campground with pretty views from the lake! This site was not next to the lake but that was our intention because it’s was more wooded & private. The only con I’ll say about this specific site, the street light for the vaulted toilet was very bright but as long as you have curtains, it’ll be fine.
Les Gunnink
To much water inflow not very good fishing did catch very nice walleye .... this year thw water level is way down and extremely windy
Lisa Roers
Great campground that has nice large spots with lots of trees! You don't feel like you will be on top of your neighbor. A picnic table and firepit at each spot with fresh fill water as well as a dump station that is easily accessible. Spots with a view of the lake are incredible! First year we have come to this campground and our boys would chose this one over and over again as they love the archery course!
Gordon Markert
Nice reservoir in which you catch fish.. It's always a clean park.
Myrna Johnson
This large reservoir lake has cabins around it, as well as boating and campground facilities. It is fairly shallow in parts but very deep in the middle. There’s shade trees in the campground and otherwise, is fairly barren with a rocky coast.
Brian Jordan
Hard to reserve has become way to popular fishing is excellent however
Scott Pederson
Staffer dont know some of the rules on motorized vehicles under 25 cc dont need to be registered.
Adam Peterson
Beautiful lake and campgrounds! Sites had electric available, and restrooms were newer and clean with spacious showers available. Would recommend if anyone is planning on fishing or hunting in the area and want a nice place to camp (tent or RV) (: