State Parks

Photo © SD Tourism

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area

The park's three campgrounds give visitors a variety of recreational opportunities, from boating to hiking to disc golf. The Corps of Engineers began building the Oahe Dam in 1948 and in 1962 started generating electricity. It's one of the largest constructed reservoirs in the United States, measuring 231 miles connecting the capital cities of South Dakota and North Dakota.

Oahe Downstream is one of the South Dakota state parks that offers the opportunity for visitors to see the majestic bald eagle. During winter, bird watchers can view eagles that roost in the treetops below the dam. They typically can be viewed perching within 50 feet of the riverbank in tall cottonwood trees.

Everyone is encouraged to visit the interactive South Dakota prairie butterfly garden located near the main entrance at Oahe Downstream. Find 17 species of native prairie plants, identify some of common butterflies, and learn something new about butterflies of South Dakota. Learn more.

Activities

Archery range
ATV & Off-Highway Vehicles
Biking
Birdwatching
Boating
Camping
Canoeing/Kayaking
Disc Golf
Fishing
Hiking
Historical interest
Horseshoes
Swimming
Volleyball

Fees

Daily: $6 per vehicle
Annual: $30 first vehicle | $15 for second vehicle | $65 transferable license
Campsites - electrical: $19 per night
Cabins: $45 per night
Lodge: $125 per night

Park Specs

Open: Year-round. Campgrounds closed to camping November 15 through the last Friday of March for bald eagle winter roosting. Day-use area remains open year-round.

Park Size: 3 campgrounds with 205 campsites and 8 cabins (each sleeps 4 people)

Directions:

5 miles north of Fort Pierre on Highway 1806, on the south side of Oahe Dam.

Nearest Town: Pierre

Make Reservations

Make reservation online or call 1.800.710.2267.

Maps

Contact Info

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area
20439 Marina Loop Road
Fort Pierre, SD 57532
605.223.7722
Email: Oahe@state.sd.us

Amenities

Beach
Boat Ramp
Campground
Camping cabins
Drinking water
Dump station
Electric campsites
Fish cleaning station
Fishing dock
Fishing pole checkout
Flush toilets/showers
Game checkout
Life Jacket Checkout
Lodge
Off-highway vehicle area
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Resort
Vault toilets
Visitor Center

Park Rating

Oahe Downstream Lodge

The Oahe Downstream group lodge was constructed with shoreline access, guests are now treated to a beautiful view and private shoreline for swimming, canoeing, or other types of water recreation.

ADA / Accessible

Camping Cabins
Camping Site
Fishing Dock
Hiking Trails
Lodge
Picnic Shelter
Showers

GPS Coordinates

Latitude: 44.43694
Longitude: -100.3998