State Parks

Photo © SD Tourism

Lake Alvin Recreation Area

Although small in size, Lake Alvin has become a very popular area. This 59 acre park is best known for its beach facilities and excellent fishing. Its proximity to Sioux Falls and Newton Hills State Park make it a great place to enjoy a day on the beach.

The focus of Lake Alvin Recreation Area is water recreation. The park has become a popular gathering place for swimmers, boaters and anglers.

Anglers can expect to catch walleye, northern pike, crappie, sunfish, perch, catfish and bullheads. The 105 acre lake is the perfect size for any boat and motor; however, the lake is designated as a no-wake zone to protect the shoreline from erosion. At no time can any boat exceed 5 mph or produce a visible wake.

Lake Alvin is an artificial impoundment formed by the construction of a dam across the lower end of Nine Mile Creek. It was named for Alvin Dempewolf, the only World War soldier form Harrisburg who died overseas. The construction of the dam was completed in August 1954 and the lake completely filled in 1957. The concrete spillway for the dam was completely replaced in 1994.

Activities

Boating
Canoeing/Kayaking
Fishing
Hiking
Swimming

Fees

Daily: $6 per vehicle
Annual: $30 first vehicle | $15 for second vehicle | $65 transferable license

Park Specs

Open: Year-round

Directions:

From Harrisburg, 4 miles east, 1 North off County Road 135.

Nearest Town: Harrisburg

Maps

Contact Info

Lake Alvin Recreation Area
27225 480th Avenue
Harrisburg, SD 57032
605.987.2263
Email: NewtonHills@state.sd.us

Amenities

Beach
Boat Ramp
Drinking water
Fishing dock
Picnic Shelter
Vault toilets