Lake Thompson Recreation Area

Lake Thompson Recreation Area in Lake Preston, South Dakota, is a much-loved family vacation getaway spot. This historic lake originally bore the name Dry Woods but was later renamed to bear the moniker of Jacob Thompson, the United States Secretary of the Interior. This restful country setting shares an interesting history. In the 1930's, Lake Thompson was little more than pasture land used for grazing animals. By the 1980's, waters had engulfed its 9,000 acres turning the dry land into a swampy marsh. As a result of heavy winter conditions in the late 20th century, the lake swelled to a body of water with a depth of over 20 feet, earning it a designation as a National Natural Landmark.

This year-round camping facility offers 103 sites suitable for use by tents or RV's. There are also five on-site cabins to accommodate groups of various sizes. In addition to this, Lake Thompson is also home to a lodge that once served as a farmhouse on this well-known property. Lake Thompson Recreation Area offers many recreational activities to provide fun for the whole family. Among the park's most beloved attractions are basketball, volleyball, swimming, hiking, fishing, horseshoes, boating, and biking. 

Picnic areas are available on-site for campers and day-trippers. There are also bathrooms which offer showers, toilets, and fresh drinking water to help keep Fido and his family well-hydrated. Visitors to the area love the on-site amenities including a pristinely clean beach, boat ramp, fish cleaning station, and fishing pole rental facility. There is also an on-site waste disposal station for those camping in RV's. Access to the park is fee-based at $6 per vehicle. Yearly passes are available at a significantly reduced cost.

Dogs are welcome at this beautiful state park but park officials require all dogs to remain on a lead at all times on the property. Though there are no posted regulations regarding park use, it is always wise to ensure Fido is up to date on vaccinations and bears the appropriate state license tag. It is unknown if poop bags are provided on-site. However, park officials do require that all owners pick up and properly dispose of all canine waste materials. For an unforgettable family vacation, consider a visit to Lake Thompson Recreation Area!