Discover Tranquility at Sandy Shore State Recreation Area
Experience the serene beauty and recreational activities at Sandy Shore State Recreation Area, a hidden gem in Watertown, South Dakota.
Nestled along the serene banks of Lake Kampeska, Sandy Shore State Recreation Area offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This picturesque park is ideal for picnicking, swimming, and hiking, making it a must-visit for tourists exploring South Dakota.
A brief summary to Sandy Shore State Recreation Area
- 1148 S Lake Dr, Watertown, South Dakota, 57201, US
- +1605-882-5200
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-11 pm
- Thursday 7 am-11 pm
- Friday 7 am-11 pm
- Saturday 7 am-11 pm
- Sunday 7 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and stunning sunrise views over the lake.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the beach, or use one of the park's picnic shelters for a comfortable dining experience.
- Don't forget your camera; the landscape is perfect for capturing beautiful photographs, especially during the golden hour.
- Check local regulations for fishing permits if you plan to fish in Lake Kampeska.
- Plan your visit in the late spring or early fall for milder weather and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Watertown, head south on S Broadway St towards 14th Ave S. Turn left onto 14th Ave S and walk for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with S Lake Dr. Turn right onto S Lake Dr. Continue walking south on S Lake Dr for approximately 1 mile. You will see the entrance to Sandy Shore State Recreation Area on your left at 1148 S Lake Dr.
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Bicycle
Starting from the Watertown Public Library, head south on S Broadway St. Turn left onto 14th Ave S and continue for about 0.5 miles. Turn right onto S Lake Dr. Follow S Lake Dr south for about 1 mile. The entrance to Sandy Shore State Recreation Area will be on your left at 1148 S Lake Dr. Be cautious of traffic while riding.
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Public Transport
Check the local bus schedule for Watertown. If available, take a bus heading towards the eastern side of Watertown. Get off at the nearest stop to S Lake Dr. Walk south on S Lake Dr for approximately 0.5 miles. The entrance to Sandy Shore State Recreation Area will be on your left at 1148 S Lake Dr. You may need to confirm the latest bus routes and timings with the local transit authority.
Discover more about Sandy Shore State Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pelican View Park
5.9 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Pelican View Park in Watertown, SD—a tranquil retreat perfect for families and nature lovers.
Watertown Regional Airport
7.4 km
Explore the beauty of South Dakota through the welcoming Watertown Regional Airport, your gateway to adventure and local culture.
Koch Complex
7.6 km
Explore the Koch Complex in Watertown, SD, a vibrant baseball field where community spirit and the love for the game come alive.
Ramkota Hotel & Watertown Event Center
7.8 km
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The Watertown Event Center
7.8 km
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American Legion Codington County Post 17 (Watertown, SD)
8.3 km
Experience the spirit of camaraderie and honor at the American Legion Codington County Post 17, a welcoming hub for veterans and the community in Watertown, SD.
The Roadhouse Cafe
8.7 km
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Watertown Monument - A Sunburst Memorials Store
8.8 km
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Wheel Inn
8.9 km
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Page's Place Cafe And Grill
9.1 km
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Watertown Iron & Metal Co
9.3 km
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Thunder Road of Watertown
9.4 km
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Family Aquatic Center
9.4 km
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Peddlers Market
9.6 km
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The Flats On 8th
9.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sandy Shore State Recreation Area
0.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and recreational activities at Sandy Shore State Recreation Area, a hidden gem in Watertown, South Dakota.
Pelican Lake Recreation Area
5.2 km
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Watertown Veterans Memorial
7.3 km
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Headwaters of the Big Sioux River
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Glacial Lakes Distillery, LLC
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Bramble Park Zoo
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Lions Park
9.4 km
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Mellette House
9.6 km
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Old Town Clock
10.1 km
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The Codington County Heritage Museum
10.2 km
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Redlin Art Center
14.4 km
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Lake Poinsett State Recreation Area
42.0 km
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Twin Brooks Theshing Grounds
50.9 km
Discover the agricultural heritage of South Dakota at Twin Brooks Threshing Grounds, a museum celebrating the history of farming and threshing.
Oakwood Lakes State Park
53.5 km
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Almanzo Wilder Historical Marker
59.2 km
Discover the legacy of Almanzo Wilder at this historical marker in De Smet, South Dakota, and immerse yourself in pioneer history.
Essential places to dine
The Prop
2.5 km
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Danger von Dempseys ATY
7.4 km
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The Sandbar
7.6 km
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Minervas Restaurant & Bar
7.8 km
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Pizza Ranch
8.8 km
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Taco John's
9.9 km
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Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
10.0 km
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Harry's
10.0 km
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Munchies
10.2 km
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The Lounge
10.2 km
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Shooters
10.3 km
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McDonald's
10.4 km
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Hot Mama Mack's
10.4 km
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Taco Bell
10.4 km
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Pizza Hut
10.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cowboy Country Store
8.8 km
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The Book Zealot
9.6 km
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Barn Again
9.6 km
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Community Corner
9.7 km
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Dakota Dispensaries
9.7 km
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Curated
9.9 km
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GSI Thrift
10.0 km
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Fiddle Stix
10.0 km
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The Vault
10.1 km
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2nd Class Elegance
10.1 km
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Breakout
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Jade + Co
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Prohibition Fashion Lounge
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Watertown Confectionery/Ghost Town Winery
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The Everything Zen
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rooster Bar
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Woody's Sports Bar
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Willy's Sports Bar
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Ringos
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Guest House Bar
10.2 km
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Duffy's Bar
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Doc's Bar
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212 Casino
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Bum's Bike & Brew
73.7 km
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Sully's Irish Pub
73.9 km
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Main Street Pub
73.9 km
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Ray's Corner
73.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Brookings at Ray's Corner, where craft drinks and friendly faces create unforgettable memories.
O'Hares
74.0 km
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Bank Saloon
74.0 km
Experience the local bar scene at Bank Saloon in Brookings, SD, where great drinks and good company await you.
The Wild Hare
74.0 km
Discover Brookings' nightlife at The Wild Hare, a bar and nightclub known for its fun ambiance, great drinks, and vibrant events.
