Lewis and Clark Recreation Area near Yankton honestly surprised me with just how breathtakingly beautiful it was. The scenery here has this wide-open, tranquil, almost cinematic quality to it -- rolling greenery, shimmering water, peaceful shorelines, endless skies, and the quiet movement of the Missouri River weaving its way through the landscape like a living ribbon cutting through the heart of America. There is something deeply calming about this place. For visitors unfamiliar with the area, the recreation area sits along Lewis and Clark Lake, which was created by the Gavins Point Dam on the Missouri River. The region is named after the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition, which traveled through this part of the country in the early 1800s while exploring the vast Louisiana Purchase territory. Standing near the water, it is honestly not difficult to imagine how enormous and untamed this landscape must have felt to early explorers centuries ago. My husband especially wanted to stop here because one of his hobbies is flying drones, and he absolutely loves capturing aerial footage of the Missouri River as it winds across different states. At this point, I think the Missouri River and my husband are in a long-term relationship and I am simply there as emotional support and snack distribution. And honestly, I understand why he loves it so much. The Missouri has such a distinct personality depending on where you encounter it. My husband and I have followed portions of the river through several states over the years including South Dakota, Missouri, Montana, and North Dakota, and we have even taken river excursions on it in other regions. Each stretch somehow feels slightly different while still carrying that same immense presence and quiet historical weight. But this particular area near Yankton felt especially serene. The water was beautiful, the surrounding scenery was lush and vibrant, and the peacefulness of the area made it very easy to lose track of time simply standing there taking it all in while my husband happily maneuvered his drone around like a man conducting an aerial symphony. It truly was one of those unexpectedly lovely stops that quietly stays with you afterward. read more

This is my happy place! It's a sprawling state park with endless areas to explore. Set with the Nebraska cliff side in your view, along with the lake, it's the most serene park. There are plenty of camping an RV areas to set up camp. There are also a lot of parks, and bathrooms. There are trails that outline the lake, as well as trailed set closer to the highway. There are multiple entry points, but well paved roads, and signage to guide you. All the park officials we've ever ran into are friendly and helpful. I highly recommend stopping here to stay, or on your travels. read more

This lake is fed by the Missouri River. The dam makes a nice reservoir with some nice views of beautiful bluffs. The park actually straddles the border of NE and SD. The good news is that if you have a fishing license in either you may fish on both sides. The Nebraska side is a little less glitzy than it's Northern neighbor. There is a marina and a shop with some basics, bait, and snack foods. The primative tent camping has an outhouse but within walking distance is the main campground with showers and modern bathrooms, bring quarters! The showers are pay stalls. The grounds were very quiet and the other primitive campgrounds were completely vacant. There is a small swimming area. Other camping is RV slots and cabins. The lack of light pollution makes the area a great place for stargazing. Overall, it is a great weekend getaway. read more

Lewis & Clark State Recreation Area - The beach and day use area - Recreation Centers Near Me - Yankton, South Dakota

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We love this place!! It's beautiful and there has never been a time when we've been here that it hasn't been beautiful (even in the rain and snow)!! My wife and I come here at least once a year (usually it's two or three times a year) and it just blows us away every time!! The staff that works in the welcome center is always very friendly and anyone traveling around in the camping areas are always friendly as well. The park is clean and the bathrooms/showers are as clean as you can expect from them. The cabins are a good price and nice to stay in if you want to be right next to the river or lakes. The beds aren't that comfy but camping shouldn't be as comfy as the bed you're normally used to. We tried fishing once but it was too windy but other people around us were fishing and catching loads of fish. The fish are very plentiful when fishing on the river!! There is way too much I could compliment in this post but everyone should experience Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area at least once in their lifetime!! read more