Campground, Madison, SD

For South Dakota locals yearning for an outdoor escape that offers both serene natural beauty and a wealth of family-friendly activities, the Campground at Lake Herman State Park is a truly exceptional choice. Nestled on a scenic peninsula just west of Madison, this beloved state park provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, enjoy water-based fun, and create lasting memories with loved ones without venturing far from home.

Lake Herman State Park Campground consistently receives glowing reviews from its visitors, a testament to its well-maintained facilities and diverse offerings. Campers rave about its suitability "for small kids," thanks to its "two beaches" and "well-maintained all around, playgrounds," ensuring that even the youngest adventurers have plenty to do. One significant highlight noted by reviewers is the "below average mosquito yields," a welcome relief for anyone who has experienced the less pleasant side of outdoor recreation, allowing for more comfortable enjoyment of the park's amenities.

Beyond the family-friendly features, the campground is praised for its overall quality and the beauty of its surroundings. Reviewers consistently highlight the "nice campground located in Lake Herman State Park" and mention the convenience of "camping cabins for rent," offering a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences. The park's commitment to maintenance ensures a clean and inviting environment, contributing to a truly enjoyable stay. Whether you're casting a line into the lake, exploring the scenic trails, or simply relaxing by your campsite, Lake Herman State Park Campground embodies the very best of South Dakota's outdoor recreation, providing a memorable and accessible getaway for all.

The Campground at Lake Herman State Park is prominently located at 23409 State Park Dr, Madison, SD 57042, USA. This address places it approximately two miles west of Madison, off South Dakota Highway 34, making it highly accessible for residents across the state. Its position on a scenic peninsula jutting into Lake Herman provides campers with stunning lake views and convenient water access.

For South Dakota locals, the park’s accessibility is a significant advantage. Madison, a vibrant community, is a manageable drive from major population centers like Sioux Falls (approximately 54 minutes away), allowing for weekend trips or longer vacations without excessive travel time. The well-maintained state highways leading to the park ensure a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, including RVs and those towing boats or trailers. Clear signage guides visitors directly to the park entrance and its various camping loops.

Once inside the park, the layout provides easy navigation to campsites, cabins, and recreational areas. The close proximity to Lake Herman itself is a major draw, offering effortless access for boating, fishing, and swimming. Furthermore, being part of a larger state park means that the campground is integrated with a network of trails and amenities, all within easy reach. The combination of its serene lakeside setting, convenient highway access, and proximity to the amenities of Madison makes Lake Herman State Park Campground an exceptionally accessible and appealing destination for South Dakotans seeking quality outdoor recreation.

Services Offered:

Campsites: The park features 72 campsites, including both electrical and non-electrical options.
Electrical Hookups: Many campsites are equipped with electrical hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp available at some sites) for RVs and trailers.
Tent Sites: Designated tent-only campsites are available for traditional camping.
Modern Shower Facilities: Clean, modern shower buildings with flush toilets are available for camper convenience.
Vault Toilets: Vault toilets are also available and open year-round.
Camping Cabins: Four rustic camping cabins are available for rent, offering heating, air conditioning, electricity, bunk beds, a double bed, and a table with benches. They do not have restrooms or running water inside.
RV Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
Drinking Water: Potable water spigots are accessible throughout the campground.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring or grill for cooking and campfires.
Two Swim Beaches: Dedicated swimming beaches provide safe access to the lake for campers.
Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are available for children, ensuring family-friendly fun.
Group Picnic Shelters: Picnic shelters are available for group gatherings and events.
Boat Ramp: A boat ramp provides easy access to Lake Herman for boating enthusiasts.
Fishing Pier: An accessible fishing pier is available for anglers.
Canoe, Kayak, Paddleboard, Fishing Pole, Lawn Game, Life Jacket, and Snowshoe Rental/Checkout: Equipment is available for various activities, enhancing visitor experience.
Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at campsites (must be on a leash, 6-foot maximum).

Features / Highlights:

"Great for Small Kids": Praised specifically for its family-friendly environment, including multiple playgrounds and two safe swimming beaches.
"Well Maintained All Around": Reviewers consistently highlight the cleanliness and upkeep of the campground and park facilities.
"Below Average Mosquito Yields": A significant advantage for comfortable outdoor enjoyment, as noted by visitors.
Scenic Lakeside Setting: Located on a peninsula in the 1,350-acre Lake Herman, offering picturesque views and direct access to water activities.
Abundant Recreational Activities: Beyond camping, the park offers hiking trails (over 3 miles), disc golf, horseshoes, boating, fishing, and in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Herman Luce Cabin (Historic Site): The park is home to a log cabin built in 1871 by Herman Luce, the first European settler, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, adding historical interest.
Wildlife Watching: The native oak woodlands and prairie grasses provide habitat for a variety of birds and animals, making it excellent for wildlife viewing, including Bald Eagles.
Camping Cabin Options: Provides alternative lodging for those who prefer a more rustic cabin experience over traditional tent or RV camping.
Amphitheater: Available for interpretive programs and gatherings.
Year-Round Activities: While camping is seasonal, the park offers activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, making it a destination throughout the year.

Promotions or Special Offers:

As a South Dakota State Park, Lake Herman State Park Campground operates under the standard fee structure set by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks. While specific "promotions" in a commercial sense are not typically offered, there are established daily and annual permit fees, and varying campsite rates that provide value:

Park Entrance Fee (required for all vehicles):
- Daily: $8 per vehicle (for residents, this rate can vary).
- Annual: $36 for the first vehicle, $18 for a second vehicle.
Campsite Fees (in addition to park entrance fee):
- Electrical Campsites: $26 per night.
- Non-Electrical Campsites: $22 per night.
Camping Cabins: $55 per night.

These fees are generally consistent across the state park system. Discounts for South Dakota residents with certain passes (e.g., senior citizen passes for some benefits, though usually focused on permits rather than campsite fees) may apply; it is best to confirm eligibility directly. Reservations for campsites and cabins are highly recommended, especially during peak season (typically May to October), and can be made through the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks reservation system online or by phone. Booking opens 90 days in advance for campsites and one year in advance for certain lodging types, which can act as a "first access" benefit for those planning ahead.

Contact Information:

Address: 23409 State Park Dr, Madison, SD 57042, USA

Phone: (605) 256-5003 (Park Office)

Email: LakeHerman@state.sd.us

For reservations, visit the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website or call 1-800-710-2267 (Central Reservations).

For South Dakota locals, the Campground at Lake Herman State Park is an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for a variety of outdoor adventures. Its prime location just outside Madison offers easy accessibility from many parts of the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing relaxation time. This convenience makes it perfect for both quick weekend getaways and more extended family vacations without the hassle of long drives.

The park's strong emphasis on family-friendly amenities, including two well-maintained beaches and multiple playgrounds, makes it an ideal destination for those with children. The low mosquito yields, a frequent highlight from satisfied campers, further enhance the comfort of outdoor play and relaxation. Beyond just camping, the abundance of activities available right within the park—from fishing and boating on Lake Herman to hiking on scenic trails and playing disc golf—ensures there's something to engage every member of the family, catering to diverse interests and activity levels.

Furthermore, the availability of both traditional campsites with electric hookups and cozy camping cabins provides flexible accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. The overall cleanliness and excellent maintenance of the facilities, as consistently praised by visitors, underscore the quality of the experience. Lake Herman State Park Campground truly offers a well-rounded and delightful outdoor escape, embodying the best of South Dakota's natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a highly recommended "go-to place" for any local seeking a memorable adventure in their home state.