State Parks

Photo © SD Tourism

Lake Vermillion Recreation Area

Known for its clear waters and abundant fish, Lake Vermillion Recreation Area is a popular area among fishermen, boaters and swimmers. During the fall, sportsmen can find waterfowl and upland game within minutes from the park. This 512-acre reservoir is located 27 miles west of Sioux Falls.

Lake Vermillion was created by impounding waters from the east fork of the Vermillion River in 1958. The river itself was first noted on an 1801 map by a French trapper who called it Otter Stream.

The word vermillion means vivid red color. Some say the stream got its name from the outcropping of red quartzite along its bank.

Activities

Basketball
Biking
Birdwatching
Boating
Camping
Canoeing/Kayaking
Fishing
Hiking
Horseshoes
Swimming
Volleyball

Fees

Daily: Daily license $4 per person or $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
Modern Cabins: $55 modern
Suites: $65 suite
Group Lodge: $75 lodge
Horse Camp: $85 horse

Park Specs

Open: Year-round

Park Size: 3 campgrounds with 94 campsites and 7 cabins (each sleeps 4 people)

Directions:

5 miles south of I-90, Exit 374

Nearest Town: Canistota

Make Reservations

Make reservation online or call 1.800.710.2267.

Maps

Contact Info

Lake Vermillion Recreation Area
26140 451st Ave.
Canistota, SD 57012
605.296.3643
Email: rvernon@spindustry.com

Amenities

Beach
Bicycle rentals
Boat Ramp
Campground
Camping cabins
Drinking water
Dump station
Electric campsites
Fish cleaning station
Fishing dock
Fishing pole checkout
Flush toilets/showers
Game checkout
Paddleboard rentals
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Ski beach
Vault toilets