State Parks

Photo © SD Tourism

Lake Thompson Recreation Area

Originally called Dry Woods Lake by American Indians, the lake was renamed for Jacob Thompson, Secretary of the Interior under President James Buchanan. In the 1930s, the lake was completely dry and used for pasture. In the 1980s, the area was a 9,000-acre marsh. Heavy rains and snowmelt in the mid-80s filled the lake to over 20 feet deep. The lake is so distinct it was designated as a National Natural Landmark.

Laura Ingalls Wilder called the area around DeSmet her home. Lake Thompson itself is also mentioned as one of the Twin Lakes in her books, including By the Shores of Silver Lake and The Long Winter.

Lake Thompson Lodge

The lodge at Lake Thompson Recreation Area was once a farm house. Now, the five-bedroom facility houses guests to one of the state's most popular recreation areas.

Reservations

Lodge is reservable up to one year in advance

www.campsd.com
1.800.710.2267

About the Lodge

$240 per night; $10 for each person over 12 people
Sleeps up to 14 people
Five bedrooms
2 bathrooms
Air conditioned and heated

Restrictions

Linens are not provided
No pets allowed inside

Activities

Basketball
Biking
Boating
Camping
Fishing
Hiking
Horseshoes
Swimming
Volleyball

Fees

Daily: $6 per vehicle
Annual: $30 first vehicle | $15 for second vehicle | $65 transferable license
Campsites - electrical: $19
Campsites - non-electrical: $15
Camping Cabins: $40 per night

Park Specs

Open: Year-round

Park Size: 103 campsites and 4 cabins (each sleeps 4 people)

Directions:

6 miles southwest of Lake Preston off US Hwy 14

Nearest Town: Lake Preston

Make Reservations

Make reservation online or call 1.800.710.CAMP (2267).

Maps

Contact Info

Lake Thompson Recreation Area
21176 Flood Club Road
Lake Preston, SD 57249
605.847.4893
Email: LakeThompson@state.sd.us

Amenities

Beach
Boat Ramp
Campground
Camping cabins
Drinking water
Dump station
Electric campsites
Fish cleaning station
Fishing pole checkout
Flush toilets/showers
Game checkout
Lodge
Playground
Ski beach
Vault toilets