6 Lakes in South Dakota That Completely Freeze Over in the Winter

South Dakota is a northern state that experiences some harsh winters. January and February are the most frigid months, with highs in the 30s and lows below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s no wonder the state features plenty of frozen lakes in the winter. 

Western South Dakota, in particular, is a hotspot for ice anglers due to the area’s many frozen bodies of water. It’s safe to stay that fishermen can find a good catch under the ice throughout the state. And if fishing’s not your thing, you might find the perfect spot for skating and snowmobiling! Check out these lakes in South Dakota that completely freeze over in the winter and plan your next adventure.

Lake Albert

Sitting on the Kingsbury and Hamlin Counties border, Lake Albert is a shallow body of water in Eastern South Dakota. It stretches for 3,500 acres in a scenic area near golf courses and other larger lakes. The water level in Lake Albert is prone to fluctuations, which can impact recreational opportunities and fish variety. But, overall, it’s an excellent spot for boating and fishing. The east side of the lake provides fishing access points and a boat ramp, whereas the west side has some access points, but the rest of the lake is private property. With a max depth of only 13 feet, Lake Albert quickly freezes in the winter and takes time to thaw.   

Waubay Lake

Are you looking for one of the most beautiful lakes to visit during the winter in South Dakota? Check out Waubay Lake! Situated in Day County, this 15,000-acre lake is in the state’s northeastern region and is a popular ice fishing spot in the area. Visitors to Waubay Lake will find eight public access points and abundant smallmouth bass, walleye, and yellow perch. As one of the deepest lakes in the state, it is one of the best places for ice fishing, especially for those interested in catching giant walleyes. Waubay Lake features decent ice conditions from December through March. But be sure to get accurate measurements before venturing out.

Lake Kampeska

Located in Watertown, South Dakota, in Codington County, Lake Kampeska is an inland glacial lake covering 5,250 acres. It’s a famous lake year-round for recreation, including boating, fishing, camping, and swimming. During the winter, you can shuffle onto the surface for ice fishing and skating. It also offers breathtaking views of the frozen expanse and landing waterfowl. While the ice thickness varies, you can expect around 10 inches by the end of December and thaw-outs near the beginning of March.

Pelican Lake

If you want to see migrating waterfowl, head to Pelican Lake and watch ducks and other birds land on the open waters! This natural lake is near Watertown in Codington County and is a popular recreational area. Covering nearly 3,000 acres, Pelican Lake is an impressive frozen landscape for all your winter activities. On the lake, you can set up your rig and reel for ice fishing, and off the ice, you can traverse the cross-country ski and snowshoe trails.  

Pactola Reservoir

Sitting in the Black Hills National Forest, Pactola Reservoir is the largest and deepest reservoir in the forest. It is in Pennington County in Western South Dakota near Rapid City. Pactola Reservoir covers 785 acres and is one of the best recreational areas in this part of the state. During the summer, visitors flock to the shores for swimming and boating, and in the winter, it’s a frozen wonderland for ice fishing. With a max depth of 150 feet, Pactola is one of the last lakes to freeze over. You can expect icy conditions by the end of December, especially around the reservoir’s edge. South Dakota’s high country is an excellent spot for frozen lakes. Finding a lake that doesn’t freeze over in the western region would be difficult.

Lake Sylvan

While this stunning lake is a must-visit during the summer, it’s even more spectacular in the winter. It sits in Custer State Park in South Dakota’s Black Hills, a hotspot for year-round activities like swimming, boating, hiking, and camping. Lake Sylvan is frozen by December and beckons adventure seekers to its icy surface. Winter is one of the best times to visit Lake Sylvan without the summer tourists. Enjoy the quiet, snow-laden wilderness and look for wintering bald eagles!

Summary of the 6 Lakes in South Dakota That Completely Freeze Over in the Winter

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