The Best Swimming Spots in South Dakota: Lakes, Rivers, and More

Are you looking for the best swimming spots in South Dakota? Look no further! This article provides many great choices for respite from the hot summer weather.

From canyons and buttes to the Black Hills and Great Plains, South Dakota has a unique and impressive landscape. The state also features iconic sites, like Mount Rushmore and the Badlands. The state is divided into two sections by the Missouri River. The east side has moderate humidity and precipitation, while the west side is drier. And while this Midwest state doesn’t have as many bodies of water as other states, there are still plenty to choose from for recreation. In fact, South Dakota has 584 lakes and reservoirs and over 9,500 miles of rivers and streams. With that many water sources, South Dakota is a wonderful state for summertime swimming!

South Dakota’s Climate and Warm Season

South Dakota features a continental climate and is one of the coldest regions in the United States. You can expect long, freezing, and snowy winters and short, warm, and semi-humid summers. The warm season lasts about 3.5 months, beginning in late May and ending in mid-September. July is the hottest month of the year, with an average daily high of 84 degrees. And during the peak of summer, you can expect several days over 90. What better way to beat the July heat than to take a refreshing dip in one of the state’s natural swimming pools? Check out the best swimming spots in South Dakota, including lakes, rivers, swimming holes, beaches, and water parks.

South Dakota Swimming Holes

Swimming holes hold a special place in the hearts of Americans. There’s nothing like jumping from a jagged cliff into a pool of bright blue water with the sound of a waterfall splashing around you. And South Dakota is perfect for little hidden gems along creeks and rivers. Plus, you can choose from either hot or cold soaks! Check out these picks for the best swimming holes in South Dakota:

• Hippie Hole – Keystone
• Evans Plunge Mineral Springs – Hot Springs
• Devils Bathtub – Lead
• Hot Springs Waterfall – Hot Springs
• Cascade Falls – Hot Springs
• Upper Chautauqua Park – Hot Springs

South Dakota Swimming Lakes

South Dakota is dotted with lakes and reservoirs throughout the state. Some of the clearest lakes in the country are located in the Black Hills, featuring crystal clear and turquoise waters, like Sylvan Lake. Or you can visit Lake Thompson, the largest natural lake in South Dakota. Lakes are excellent for swimming, but they are also popular for fishing, boating, and water sports. Check out these picks for the best swimming lakes in South Dakota:

• Enemy Swim Lake – Lake Traverse Indian Reservation
• Pactola Lake – Rapid City
• Center Lake – Black Hills
• Iron Creek Lake
• Angostura Reservoir – Hot Springs
• Cold Brook Lake –  Hot Springs
• Legion Lake – Custer State Park

South Dakota Rivers for Swimming and Floating

If you are one of those people who shudder at the thought of whitewater rafting, lazy river tubing might be more your speed. But honestly, there’s nothing better than floating down a stream on a hot summer day with your friends by your side and a cold drink in your hand. Thankfully, South Dakota has some excellent creeks, streams, and rivers for tubing and swimming. Check out these top picks.

• Rapid Creek
• Big Sioux River
• Spearfish Creek 
• Missouri National Recreational River

South Dakota Beaches

While this landlocked state may not be anywhere near the ocean, you can still enjoy relaxing on a nice sandy lake beach in many areas around the state. Here are a few of the most popular:

• Sylvan Lake Beach
• Angostura and Sheps Canyon Recreational Areas
• Lewis & Clark Recreation Area Beach
• Ravine Lake
• Newton Hills State Park
• Lake Vermillion

South Dakota Water Parks

While taking a dip in an outdoor paradise is relaxing and good for the soul, visiting a water park or large manmade swimming pool is also a fun summer adventure for the whole family. Check out these top-rated picks for water parks in South Dakota:

• WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort – Rapid City
• Wild Water West Waterpark and Flamingo Falls Campground – Sioux Falls
• Splash Central Waterpark – Huron
• Evans Plunge Mineral Springs – Hot Springs
• Rush Mountain Adventure Park – Keystone
• Family Aquatic Center – Watertown
• Thunder Road of Sioux Falls – Sioux Falls
• Storybook Land – Aberdeen

Summary of The Best Swimming Spots in South Dakota: Lakes, Rivers, and More