Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 2, Bruce, SD

Introduction / Overview

For South Dakota residents seeking the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and modern camping comfort, Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 2 is a truly exceptional destination. Nestled among a stunning chain of eight connecting glacial lakes in the heart of the Glacial Lakes & Prairies region, this campground offers a quintessential eastern South Dakota experience. It is one of the two modern camping loops within the highly-regarded Oakwood Lakes State Park, a cherished local resource rich in both history and recreational opportunities.

Campground 2, along with its counterpart, provides large, well-mowed grassy sites that are ideal for everything from tent camping to large RVs. It is also the section of the park that features several popular rental cabins, making it a versatile choice for any kind of local traveler. Visitors consistently praise the quality of the stay, often highlighting the "Beautiful spot on the lake" and the fact that the cabins are "well maintained and clean." The friendly, peaceful atmosphere combined with easy access to the chain of lakes—including Johnson Lake and Lake Tetonkaha—makes this a beloved retreat for families, anglers, hikers, and those simply looking to recharge by the water.

Location and Accessibility

Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 2 is conveniently located in the eastern region of South Dakota, making it an easy drive for residents of major nearby cities like Brookings and Sioux Falls. The official address for the park, which encompasses the campground, is 20247 Oakwood Dr, Bruce, SD 57220, USA.

The park is geographically positioned about seven miles north and three miles west of Volga, SD, just off US Highway 14, or easily accessible from Exit 140 on Interstate 29. Its location ensures a smooth, short journey to unplug and enjoy nature. Situated right on the shoreline, the campground offers immediate access to the clear waters of the lakes for all water sports, with the main boat ramp and one of the swimming beaches located within close proximity to the camping loops. The easy accessibility, paired with the park’s serene environment, solidifies its reputation as a go-to local camping spot.

Services Offered

Campground 2 at Oakwood Lakes State Park is a modern camping facility, designed to provide a comfortable and convenient experience for all visitors. The following key services ensure a high-quality stay for locals:

Modern Campsites: The loop features numerous spacious, grassy sites, most of which offer full electrical hookups (30 and 50 amp service available) to accommodate RVs and trailers up to 75 feet in length.
Rental Cabins: A significant draw of Campground 2 is the availability of well-maintained and clean rental cabins, offering a comfortable alternative to traditional camping with a beautiful lakeside backdrop.
Clean Comfort Stations: The campground provides clean, modern restroom facilities, including flush toilets and hot showers for camper use (availability of running water systems is seasonal, typically closing from October 1st to April 30th).
Water and Sewage Disposal: Multiple drinking water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground loop, and a sanitary dump station is available within the State Park for RV and trailer waste disposal.
Basic Site Amenities: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill grate, perfect for preparing meals and enjoying evening campfires.
Recreational Rentals: Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the park, allowing campers to easily get out and explore the interconnected glacial lakes.

Features / Highlights

Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 2’s greatest feature is the rich variety of natural, historical, and recreational amenities that are available just steps from your tent or cabin door:

Eight Connecting Glacial Lakes: The campground is uniquely situated among eight connected lakes—including Johnson, Oakwood, and Tetonkaha—which are perfect for boating, fishing (Northern Pike, Walleye, Perch), and paddling year-round.
Mortimer's Cabin Historical Landmark: Visitors can explore the park’s fascinating history by visiting the original log cabin built by settler Samuel Mortimer in 1869, an interesting landmark that adds a cultural element to a nature-focused trip.
Extensive Hiking and Multi-Use Trails: The park boasts nearly five miles of trails, including the scenic Tetonkaha Trail (a 0.8-mile loop around Scout Island) and the Mortimer’s Shoreline Trail (a 1-mile route passing the historic cabin), which are noted for being nice, enjoyable paths for hikers and nature viewing.
Swimming Beach and Water Access: A designated swim beach is available for cooling off during the summer. Campers are advised by previous guests to "watch for leaches from time to time" and "recommend water shoes as beach is kinda rocky," ensuring a safe and prepared swimming experience.
Four-Season Activities: The fun doesn’t stop when the snow falls; the park’s trails are maintained for cross-country skiing, and the frozen lakes become popular spots for local ice-fishing enthusiasts.
Family-Friendly Recreational Areas: The facilities include a playground for younger campers and a nine-hole disc golf course, providing additional fun and varied activities for the whole family.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, make reservations, or check the current status of facilities like showers during the shoulder seasons, use the following contact details for Oakwood Lakes State Park:

Address (State Park Office): 20247 Oakwood Dr, Bruce, SD 57220, USA

Phone (Park Information): (605) 627-5441

Reservations (South Dakota State Parks): 1-800-710-CAMP (2267) or via the official state park reservations website (www.campsd.com).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across South Dakota, especially those in the eastern portion of the state, Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 2 is one of the most suitable, high-value local getaways available. Its location in Bruce, SD, provides a convenient escape that minimizes travel time and maximizes recreational time. The park beautifully showcases the unique glaciated landscape of the region, offering a serene environment on the lake that feels like a true vacation without the need for a long, expensive trip.

The suitability for locals is found in its versatility: it offers everything from electric RV sites and modern cabins to primitive tent areas and even a horse camp, accommodating all local camping styles and budgets. The rich history, featuring American Indian gathering spots and the preservation of Mortimer's Cabin, adds a layer of local heritage that deepens the experience. Whether you’re a family enjoying the playground and swim beach, a history buff walking the Shoreline Trail, or an angler seeking the area's excellent fishing, Oakwood Lakes State Park Campground 2 provides a comprehensive, clean, and highly enjoyable setting for South Dakotans to connect with nature and with their local history.