Fee: Daily entrance: $10 residents, $15 nonresidents. Annual: $40 residents, $60 nonresidents. Camping: electrical $30 per night; camping cabins $60 per night. Reservations: Go Outdoors South Dakota or 1-800-710-2267.
About this park
Lake Poinsett Recreation Area sits on one of the largest natural lakes in the state. The lake was named for Joel Poinsett, U.S. Secretary of War, who promoted the 1838 expedition of Joseph Nicollet and John Fremont; the party camped on the north side of the lake. Today the lakeshore offers camping, boating, fishing and swimming. Two campgrounds hold 112 campsites and four camping cabins, and disc golf, biking and cross-country skiing are available. The park is about 14 miles northeast of Arlington.
Lake Poinsett Recreation Area FAQ
Where is Lake Poinsett Recreation Area located?
Lake Poinsett Recreation Area is in Arlington, South Dakota, at 45617 S. Poinsett Drive. GPS coordinates: 44.53418, -97.08395. Get directions.
Is there an entrance fee at Lake Poinsett Recreation Area?
Daily entrance: $10 residents, $15 nonresidents. Annual: $40 residents, $60 nonresidents. Camping: electrical $30 per night; camping cabins $60 per night. Reservations: Go Outdoors South Dakota or 1-800-710-2267. Fees can change by season, so confirm with the park before you go.
How do I contact Lake Poinsett Recreation Area?
You can call (605) 983-5085. The park office can confirm RV site availability, hookups, length limits and current conditions.
Are there RV campgrounds near Lake Poinsett Recreation Area?
Yes. The closest RV-friendly campgrounds listed on ParkedRV are:
- Mel Rieman Rec (179.1 mi, reservable)
- Eggerts Landing (182.5 mi, reservable)
- West Ashtabula Crossing (183.2 mi, reservable)
How current is this information about Lake Poinsett Recreation Area?
This listing was last updated on October 8, 2026. If something is out of date, let us know and we'll fix it.