Pickerel Lake Recreation Area South Dakota (SD) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Pickerel Lake Recreation Area is a prime destination for RV camping, offering an idyllic blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Established in the early 20th century, this park holds significant cultural importance, as it was once home to indigenous tribes who cherished the land for its abundant resources. The unique feature of the park, its chain of interconnected lakes, is a result of glacial movements during the Ice Age. This geological phenomenon has created a stunning landscape, perfect for water-based activities such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

Weather-wise, the park experiences warm summers and cold winters, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 80°F. RV renters should be prepared for varying conditions, ensuring their vehicles are equipped with adequate insulation, heating, and cooling systems. Additionally, it’s essential to stay informed about local weather forecasts and advisories, as sudden storms or extreme temperatures can impact travel plans.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Pickerel Lake Recreation Area. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Pickerel Lake Recreation Area.

RV Rentals in Pickerel Lake Recreation Area

Transportation

Pickerel Lake Recreation Area is easily accessible by private vehicle with multiple entrances available for visitors. The park’s main entrance is situated off Highway 16 with additional access points along County Roads A and B. RV renters should note that there are restrictions on rig sizes with a maximum length of 40 feet permitted. It’s essential to plan your route carefully taking into account any low bridges narrow roads or tight turns that may pose challenges for larger vehicles.

RV parking is available at the Pickerel Lake Recreation Area with designated spots for RVs throughout the park. Overnight parking is restricted to designated campsites only. Camping with an RV can be a great way to explore the park but using alternative transportation methods such as biking or hiking can enhance your experience.

Getting around Pickerel Lake Recreation Area is made easy with its network of walking paths and shuttle buses. Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll or cover more ground these transportation options make it convenient to explore the park’s many attractions.

Top Campsites in Pickerel Lake Recreation Area

The most popular campgrounds near Pickerel Lake Recreation Area that require reservations are

Lake of the Woods Campground

Located just a short drive from Pickerel Lake this campground has 100 sites and offers plenty of activities such as fishing boating and hiking. Amenities include showers laundry facilities and a playground. Pets are welcome and the campground is open from May to October. RV and trailer sizes up to 45 feet are permitted.

Pickerel Lake Campground

This campground is situated right on the shores of Pickerel Lake and has 85 sites. Activities include swimming fishing and hiking. Amenities include showers a boat ramp and a playground. Pets are welcome and the campground is open from May to October. RV and trailer sizes up to 35 feet are permitted.

Northstar Campground

Located nearby this campground has 70 sites and offers activities such as fishing boating and hiking. Amenities include showers a laundry facility and a playground. Pets are welcome and the campground is open from May to October. RV and trailer sizes up to 40 feet are permitted.

Kettle River Campground

 This campground is located a short drive from Pickerel Lake and has 60 sites. Activities include fishing swimming and hiking. Amenities include showers a boat ramp and a playground. Pets are welcome and the campground is open from May to October. RV and trailer sizes up to 30 feet are permitted.

First-come-first-served campgrounds near Pickerel Lake Recreation Area include

Sunset Beach Campground

This campground has 20 sites and is located on the shores of Pickerel Lake. It is open from May to October and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 25 feet. Pets are welcome.

Maple Grove Campground

This campground has 15 sites and is located nearby. It is open from May to October and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. Pets are welcome.

Whispering Pines Campground

This campground has 30 sites and is located a short drive from Pickerel Lake. It is open from May to October and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 35 feet. Pets are welcome.

Alternative camping options near Pickerel Lake Recreation Area include

Private Campgrounds

There are several private campgrounds in the area that offer RV and tent camping. These campgrounds often have more amenities than the public campgrounds such as pools game rooms and restaurants.

Backcountry Camping

For those who want a more rustic camping experience there are several backcountry camping options in the area. These campsites are accessible only by foot or canoe and offer a true wilderness experience.

RV Parks

There are several RV parks in the area that offer full hookups laundry facilities and other amenities. These parks are a good option for those who want the convenience of a full-service campground.

The Pickerel Lake Recreation Area is a haven for outdoorsy RV campers who love to engage in recreational activities. Here are the top five activities that draw campers to this beautiful area

Fishing

Pickerel Lake is teeming with fish including largemouth bass walleye and northern pike. The lake is open for fishing year-round and there are several fishing piers and boat launches throughout the park. Anglers can also fish from the shore or rent a boat to explore the lake.

Hiking

The park offers several hiking trails that wind through the forest and along the lake. The most popular trail is the Whispering Pines Nature Trail which is a 1.5-mile loop that features scenic views of the lake and wildlife.

Biking

The park has several bike trails that are suitable for riders of all skill levels. The most popular trail is the Pickerel Lake Loop Trail which is a 6.5-mile loop that circles the lake and offers beautiful views of the surrounding forest.

Boating

Pickerel Lake is a great place for boating with several boat launches throughout the park. Campers can rent boats kayaks and canoes to explore the lake and its many coves and inlets.

Swimming

The park has a designated swimming area on the lake with a sandy beach and a bathhouse. The swimming area is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

For RV campers who prefer alternative activities to the typical outdoorsy pursuits Pickerel Lake Recreation Area has plenty to offer. Here are five popular activities that draw campers who prefer a more leisurely pace

Sightseeing

The park is home to several beautiful landmarks including the Pickerel Lake Dam and the Whispering Pines Observation Tower. Visitors can also take a scenic drive through the park to enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and forest.

Nature Watching

The park is home to a variety of wildlife including deer foxes and birds. Visitors can take a guided nature walk or explore the park on their own to see the wildlife up close.

Picnicking

The park has several picnic areas throughout with tables and grills available for use. Campers can enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Photography

The park offers several Instagram-worthy photo opportunities including the Pickerel Lake Dam the Whispering Pines Observation Tower and the many scenic views of the lake and forest.

Visiting the Visitor Center

The park’s visitor center is a great place to learn about the history and ecology of the area. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs and get information about the park’s many activities and events.

Season-specific experiences in Pickerel Lake Recreation Area

Spring is a great time for RV campers to visit Pickerel Lake Recreation Area. One popular activity is hiking the trails that wind through the lush forest and offer stunning views of the lake. The Sylvan Lake Trail is a favorite among visitors with its gentle incline and abundant wildlife. Another must-see is the Pickerel Lake Historical Museum which offers a glimpse into the area’s rich past. For those looking for some fun on the water kayaking and canoeing are popular options. The calm waters of the lake make it the perfect place to paddle around and take in the scenery. Fishing is also a popular pastime with the lake teeming with a variety of species such as bass walleye and northern pike.

Summer is the peak season for RV campers at Pickerel Lake Recreation Area. With the warm weather comes a plethora of outdoor activities. Swimming is a popular choice with the lake’s sandy beaches providing the perfect spot to soak up the sun. Boating is also a popular pastime with visitors able to rent pontoon boats fishing boats and jet skis from local marinas. For those looking for a more adventurous activity there are several nearby zip-lining and rock climbing options. The area is also home to several golf courses making it a great destination for golf enthusiasts. Finally no visit to Pickerel Lake Recreation Area would be complete without taking a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside where visitors can take in the beautiful views of rolling hills and farmland.

Fall is a magical time of year at Pickerel Lake Recreation Area with stunning foliage and cooler temperatures. Here are five recreational activities that attract RV campers during this season

Hiking the Pickerel Lake Trail

This 3.5-mile loop trail offers breathtaking views of the fall foliage. It’s an easy to moderate hike that’s perfect for families. You can access the trailhead from the campground.

Fishing on Pickerel Lake

The lake is known for its excellent fishing and fall is a great time to catch bass walleye and northern pike. You can fish from the shore or rent a boat from the marina.

Visiting the historic covered bridge

The nearby Watson’s Mill is home to one of the last remaining covered bridges in the area. It’s a beautiful spot for photography and a step back in time.

Taking a scenic drive

The area is surrounded by beautiful countryside and fall is the perfect time to take a drive and enjoy the colors. The nearby Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive is a popular route.

Attending the annual Fall Festival

Held in nearby West Bend this festival features live music food and craft vendors. It’s a great way to experience the local culture.

Winter is a wonderland at Pickerel Lake Recreation Area with plenty of activities to keep RV campers busy. Here are five recreational activities that attract RV campers during the winter season

Snowshoeing

The park offers several trails for snowshoeing including the Pickerel Lake Trail. It’s a great way to explore the winter landscape and get some exercise.

Ice fishing

Pickerel Lake is a popular spot for ice fishing with a heated fishing shanty available for rent. You can catch a variety of fish including panfish walleye and northern pike.

Cross-country skiing

The park has several groomed trails for cross-country skiing including the 3-mile Pickerel Lake Trail. It’s a great way to enjoy the winter scenery.

Sledding and tubing

The park has a sledding hill that’s perfect for families. You can also rent tubes and sleds from the park office.

Visiting the nearby Ice Castles

Located in nearby Lake Geneva the Ice Castles are a magical winter attraction featuring ice sculptures tunnels and slides. It’s a must-see for winter RV campers.

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10% OFF RV Rental*